“You're joking, right? This isn't something to joke about," she stammered.

"I wish I were," Sonia replied, her face a portrait of genuine anxiety.

A wave of dread washed over Ariana, seeing Sonia's obvious distress.

Quick to act, Sarah said, “We need to check the security footage right away. Melon can't be far."

"You're absolutely right," Betsy chimed in.