In the center, a grand, long table was positioned, surrounded by a gathering of influential figures from the business world. Among them was Maxwell, someone Ariana recognized.

Ariana hadn't spoken to Sonia about Maxwell's situation since the recent misunderstanding. She made a mental note to catch up on that gossip later.

She glanced casually towards a corner and suddenly paused.

Dr. Larson is here.

Why was he here?

Ariana was stunned and blurted out, "Dr. Larson?"

Rodney, noticing her surprise, grinned and inquired, "You two are acquainted?"

“Yes, we do," Ariana replied. “One of my artists needed corrective surgery, and Dr. Larson performed the procedure."

Rodney chuckled. “Small world! He's actually my cousin. He's always been fascinated by bones and such. I know about his cosmetic clinic, but I didn't know you had been there."

"It's unbelievable! I didn't know you two are related," Ariana said, clearly astonished, her gaze fixed on Dr. Larson.

Dr. Larson chuckled and remarked, “It's not a big deal. I've known for some time that you and Mitchel are acquainted.”

Ariana was taken aback. "Really? I had no idea. You never told me about this."

Dr. Larson snorted and said, "Why else would I have readily agreed to perform surgery on that artist you brought?"

Upon reflection, Ariana came to understand that Dr. Larson wasn't swayed easily by a mere afternoon of farm activities and a few meals.

It was likely Mitchel's influence had played a significant role.

There were vacant seats near Dr. Larson. Following a_ brief conversation with Rodney, Ariana and her two children took their seats beside Dr. Larson.

The children were exceptionally well-behaved. Melon even greeted Dr.

Larson politely.

Dr. Larson glanced at the children and casually inquired, “Are they your children?"

"The boy is mine, but the girl isn't," Ariana responded truthfully.