Melon clung tighter to Ariana's arm, his apprehension palpable as he remained silent, unwilling to engage with Sadie.

Sensing Melon's reluctance, Sadie let out a derisive snort and continued to scrutinize him. Her words dripped with disdain as she said slowly, “You're quite the charmer, aren't you? But I wonder, whom do you resemble? Like mother, like son, they say. It appears you've inherited your mother's knack for thievery."

Ariana, witnessing this, stepped forward protectively, positioning herself between Sadie and Melon, her resolve evident in her demeanor.

With a cold stare, she said, “Choose your words wisely. Children should not be involved in adult disputes."

Sadie's sneer deepened at Ariana's warning. She narrowed her eyes, maintaining her composure as she remarked coldly, “Indeed, the early years are crucial for education."

Her hand rested on her belly as she continued, "I must ensure Adele learns the importance of not becoming a mistress when she grows up. Don't you agree, Miss Edwards?"

Ariana could feel the hostility radiating from Sadie. She met her gaze with equal resolve and countered, “Miss Pierre, perhaps you should focus on enhancing your own morals before imparting wisdom to your child."

Sadie's features contorted with anger, her gaze burning into Ariana.

"Since when has being a mistress become justifiable?"

Ariana seethed with anger. How could she be labeled a mistress when she and Theodore had been together first?

But even if she defended herself, Sadie would stubbornly cling to her own belief. So it was pointless to argue.

Intent on continuing her reproach, Sadie remained adamant in her conviction. However, her tirade was abruptly halted by Holden's low, stern voice. "That's enough, Sadie. Go back," he commanded firmly.

As Holden's displeasure echoed in the air, Sadie's anger flared. She shot a fierce glare at Holden, her teeth clenched as she retorted, “Enough? It's never enough! I can't bear to see my child without a father."

With those words, Sadie's composure shattered, tears streaming down her face. Her gaze shifted to Melon, her voice pleading. “Please, can you give Adele her father back? You know what it's like to grow up without one. Do I need to beg you on my knees? Just give Adele her father back!"

With that, Sadie sank to her knees before Melon.

Both Melon and Adele were taken aback by Sadie's sudden emotional outburst. They began to cry. Melon reached for Ariana in tears.

Ariana's fury surged. She couldn't believe Sadie would involve Melon in such a manner. "Are you insane? This is none of Melon's concern! Stop this nonsense!"

She covered Melon's ears and swiftly retreated with him into the villa yard without another glance at Sadie or Holden.

With Adele crying in his arms, Holden stood in front of Sadie and glared at her.

A little while later, Sadie ceased crying and looked up at Holden.