Melody Strikes Back by Myra Walker (Chapters 256, 257, 258, 259, and 260)

Chapter 256

Thinking of how furious her Dad would be when he tore into Melody, just imagining it got Mabel fired up. She eagerly picked up her phone and made a video call straight to Russel.

Russell had been in high spirits lately. After spreading the news about this upcoming collaboration with Swanson Universal Entertainment, major investors lined up to share drinks with him. Just as he had returned home after a round of drinks, feeling a bit lazy, he asked, What’s up Mabel? In a tone that conveyed his affection for her. After all, Mabel was beautiful and had always been determined and accomplished, bringing herself numerous accolades throughout her life.

Watching Russell in such high spirits, Mabel couldn’t help but smirk inwardly, thinking Dad wouldn’t be laughing for long. She didn’t intend to provoke Russel but instead wanted him to realize that she was the daughter who deserved special attention and investment. While these thoughts ran through her mind, Mabel maintained a cheerful expression.

Today, I accompanied a friend to an auction; guess who I saw here, she said:

When Russell Fox was in a good mood, his patience matched as he asked, who did you see?

Melody! She spent over 20 million dollars to auction something.

When Mabel said that, Russell’s mind momentarily froze. He thought, twenty million dollars! He had been hosting dinners every day recently, just securing a 20 million dollar investment, which hadn’t yet come through pending the confirmation of the partnership with Swanson Universal Entertainment. Meanwhile, Melody was splurging at the auction. He thought, she has 20 million dollars and didn’t tell me?

Russell felt his authority as a father being challenged and immediately said. Get her on the phone right away! Tell her to cancel the purchase of the item!

Mabel felt secretly delighted, Russell would be furious whether Melody could come up with 20 million dollars or not. I’ll go backstage to find her… Mabel made a shocked expression, turned the camera away, and hurried off towards the backstage.

In the backstage, Melody encountered a problem with payment. The money needed to be deducted from her bank account, but Ken was supposed to cover it today. Unable to proceed, she had to message Ken to transfer the payment for the antique vase and the auction item to her account. However, this delay meant that the payment process would be extended.

When Regina and Mabel arrived backstage, they saw Melody standing at the payment counter, fiddling with her phone. James who was originally with her, was nowhere to be seen. Immediately, they jumped to conclusions.

Mabel thought: Melody doesn’t have that much money indeed! Maybe James felt Melody didn’t deserve 20 million dollars and left in anger? Mabel smirked and quietly turned down the volume on her phone.

Mabel walked up and casually aimed her camera at Melody, raising her voice slightly. She asked, Melody, why are you standing here? You’re not having trouble paying for your purchases, are you? As soon as she said this, the guest in the backstage area turned their attention towards Melody.

The staff responsible for collecting money frowned displeasedly and questioned, Miss, do you not have the money to pay?

At this moment, James waiting outside, so the staff didn’t know he had brought in Melody. She replied expressionlessly, I have it; I just need to wait a moment.

The staff immediately assumed Melody didn’t have the money and was intentionally stalling here to slip away. Standing up, they accused her sharply, if you don’t have money, why did you bid in the auction? Are you just playing games with us? Do you realize your actions are wasting much of our time and staffing? Can you afford the responsibility for this?

I… Melody began to speak but was interrupted by Mabel pretending to defend her, and apologized profusely, I’m sorry, sir. My sister just returned from the rural and isn’t familiar with auction protocols. She might have wanted to make a bit of a splash. Please don’t mind…

Making a splash? Do you even realize where you are? Is this the place for you to make a splash? It is disruptive and maliciously disturbing the auction!

Melody’s expression turned cold. I’ve said it before. I have the money. I need to wait a bit. Five minutes at most.

Why do you need five minutes if you have the money? Are you still not admitting your mistake, still trying to deceive us? The staff called security directly, to detain her!

Wait a moment, Regina stepped forward timely, smiling. I happen to need this herb too, Miss Fox. How about this? I’ll pay 20 million dollars for you so we can avoid embarrassment.

Mabel quickly said, you really should thank Regina for helping you out of this situation!

Helping out? Melody raised her eyebrow cooly. I appreciate the gesture, but I don’t need it.

Regina frowned and said, Melody Fox, don’t be shameless. I’ll pay this money for you, so you won’t bear any responsibility. But if you refuse, you should know the consequences of maliciously disrupting the auction, right?

Melody pursed her lips, I can sell it to you, but I bought it for 20 million dollars, if you want it, bring 40 million dollars. She was confident that Regina didn’t have more than 20 million dollars on hand. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have gone silent after Melody bid.

Regina’s face darkened as she replied, you’re pushing it with that outrageous demand, aren’t you? Let me remind you, according to the rules, if you can’t pay, this item will be sold to me at my bid. Don’t underestimate the consequences.

Melody’s smile deepened as she gazed intently at Regina. Miss Sterling, you had money to spend 20 million dollars on a necklace for a friend. Do you not have enough to spend an extra 20 million dollars buying these herbs?

Regina looked at Melody’s expression and finally understood something. She thought, she knows! She knew about my determination to outbid her, so she deliberately bid so high for that necklace and then for Uvograss, leaving me unable to compete. Regina’s face turned pale with realization.

Regina thought she had beaten Melody, but in reality, she had fallen right into Melody’s trap. She believed she was the predator catching the prey, unaware that Melody was not the prey but the predator. You did this on purpose.

Melody pursed her lips and said, I never wanted to be enemies with anyone unless they struck first. If Regina hadn’t been malicious, Melody wouldn’t have had the chance to empty Regina’s wallet. She thought, this is the consequences of one’s actions!

Regina’s face contorted with a twisted expression. Melody glanced casually at Mabel and said: If I were you, I wouldn’t bother paying for that necklace…

Mabel’s expression immediately turned anxious, and she hurriedly said to Regina, Regina, you promised this necklace was for me. You can’t just refuse to pay. She thought: if Regina doesn’t pay won’t I be seen as the one who maliciously disrupted the auction?

In her haste, Mabel forgot she was still on video and directly advised Regina, Regina, she couldn’t even afford that 20 million dollars, you could easily secure the herbs with your bid. Just then, Melody’s phone chimed.

Chapter 257

She took out her phone, glanced down, and saw that 60 million dollars had been deposited, more than enough to cover her three purchases at the auction.

Regina and Mabel both ignored Melody’s subtle move. Regina didn’t want to give Melody any face anymore. She initially didn’t want Melody to pay too much attention to her for fear of revealing her attempt to take credit. But now Melody refused to settle the matter peacefully. Regina thought, that since this troublemaker refused to back down, she only had herself to blame.

Regina’s expression turned cold as she addressed the staff, saying: My time is precious. Since she can’t pay, please proceed quickly and hand over the herbs according to the procedure.

Alright, Miss, we’ll handle it promptly. The staff responded politely, then swiftly changed demeanor, staring coldly at Melody. Please cooperate with us. Sign this cancellation contract for the auction right here. Our specialists will handle further actions due to your misconduct! With that, the staff tossed a pen onto the table before Melody.

Please hurry up and sign! Mabel urged anxiously, worried that her diamond necklace might be at risk.

Melody ignored the staff, if I pay now, can I avoid signing this contract?

Of course! The staff nodded instinctively but then frowned and said: What do you mean? You can’t afford it, yet you don’t want others to buy it either? I’ve never seen someone so malicious!

Melody frowned, showing her disdain for further conversation with the staff. She took out her bank card and lifted her chin, indicating they should process the payment. The staff hesitated, feeling conflicted. In this mind, he wondered, could it be that this seemingly shabby woman does have the ability to pay?

Regina, standing nearby, grew impatient. Melody Fox, what exactly are you trying to do? Is it amusing for you to waste everyone’s time like this? Don’t you know the meaning of shame? For generations, your family must have been cursed to have a daughter like you!

Seeing Regina getting anxious, the staff member fearing to offend such an esteemed guest, sternly told Melody, Please sign immediately, right now! Otherwise, I’ll call the police.

Melody, losing her patience, exclaimed, How many times must I say it? I have the money to pay!

You- you’re so stubborn! The staff member reached for their phone to call the police, but Mabel suddenly remembered she was still on video. Worried that Russell might think she hadn’t been helpful, she quickly intervened saying: Please don’t call the police! I’ll convince my sister to sign right now.

After Mabel finished speaking, she feigned urgency, saying: Melody, please sign quickly! If this escalates to the police station, it will affect your reputation and our entire Fox family!

Seeing that her words were being ignored, Melody took the card reader from the staff directly. After a few quick actions, she swiped her card. Thinking Melody was causing trouble, the staff shouted, What are you doing? Security, come here! Bind this troublemaker right away!

Mabel watched as Melody foolishly caused a scene; she sneered. She thought: Let’s see how this ends! I’ve tried to advise you, but you wouldn’t listen.

Regina was speechless. She thought: I thought she was smarter than this, setting traps in reverse for me. It turns out she’s just an empty-headed, accidentally outsmarting herself this time.

Upon hearing the staff member’s voice, the venue had many security personnel who immediately surrounded Melody and the primary coordinator. The guests began whispering and laughing at the Fox family for raising such a foolish daughter. But the next second, a mechanical female voice from the payment computer announced that payments of 28 million and 200 thousand dollars had been received. The moment the voice sounded, everyone in the room was stunned.

Regina immediately doubted her ears. It was the cashier who first came to their senses. After confirming that Melody had paid in full, their demeanor changed drastically. With utmost respect, they said to Melody: The payment has been received, Ms. Fox. I apologize for the misunderstanding earlier. Please don’t hold it against me; I was following protocol…

Melody glanced cooly at the cashier, not even bothered to get angry at such a two-faced person. She said coldly: Since I’ve paid, can I take my items now? She found it a hassle to stay even a second longer.

Of course! The cashier nodded eagerly, then signaled to the hostess to lead Melody to collect her items. The person in charge, even more apprehensive, repeatedly apologized to Melody. After glaring at the cashier, he pushed the hostess aside and took the lead.

Regina finally snapped out of it, turning to glare fiercely at the still-dazed Mabel. Mabel Fox! She has the money! She has the money! Why did you lie to me? Do you know how important those herbs are for my mothers?

Mabel finally snapped out of her shock. She quickly ended the video call with Russell, then turned to Regina with a grim expression. Mabel thought: This nouveau richer dares to accuse me! She should remember who she owes her place in the socialite circle to. Without me, she’d still be a nobody.

She pursed her lips and said coldly: Regina, why are you taking it out on me? How was I supposed to know where she got the money from? Instead of wasting your anger on me, you should focus on what to do next.

What to do next? Regina scoffed, finally seeing Mabel for who she indeed was. With a cold laugh, she said, Easy! You bid for that necklace, so you pay for it! I’ll take my 40 million dollars to buy the herbs from your sister. With that, Regina turned and strode off in the direction Melody had gone.

Mabel suddenly snapped out of her anger, panic filling her eyes. Regina! You can’t do this! You promised me!

But at that moment, Regina didn’t even slow her pace; she disappeared instantly. Mabel tried to follow but was intercepted by a staff member. Miss, you bid on the diamond necklace. Please proceed to payment counter number two.

I… I …. Mabel’s expression froze.

The staff stared disapprovingly at Mabel. Thinking: if it weren’t for her stirring things up constantly, would I have offended Miss Fox? He noticed Mabel’s pale face and fearful eyes, and suspicion crept into his mind. Miss, could it be that the person who can’t afford to pay is you?

In the presence of people who knew Mabel, curious glances instantly turned towards her, full of gossip. Mabel couldn’t help but panic; losing face was more significant than losing her life.

With no other option, she smiled and said: Could you please wait a moment? The funds aren’t on this card; I need to make a transfer. Saying that, she retreated to a corner, swiftly navigating her phone. there, she Ken’s name.

Chapter 258

Mabel delivered a cake to Ken today but was stopped by the receptionist. To make matters worse, he blocked her number, making her even more upset. In the midst of her frustration, she saw Ulric’s name on her phone. After some thought, she decided to call Ulric’s instead.

To Mabel, calling her mom wasn’t an option. She knew she’d get scolded if she called, and she also didn’t think her mom had enough savings to help. Ulric, on the other hand, had money and like Mabel, made him the perfect choice. Determined, Mabel swallowed her pride and dialed his number.

A few minutes later, Mabel approached the payment counter, beaming with a credit card pinched between her fingers. Use this card: She said.

The staff hesitated but swiped the card. beep… The transaction was approved, and Mabel successfully paid for it.

The staff was taken aback and regretted having upset two VIP customers in a row. Forcing a smile, he said, Payment successful. I’ll have the attendant take you to pick up your item.

Mabel smirked, wanting to mock the staff, but seeing many people present, she decided to maintain her composure and didn’t let her irritation show. She lifted her chin high like a proud swan and followed the attendant to retrieve her item.

Meanwhile, Melody had already collected all three items, assisted by the venue staff. Just as she was about to leave, a familiar figure rushed in and blocked her way. It was Regina, who had been arrogant earlier.

With a smile plastered on her face, Regina said: Miss Fox, I apologize for my behavior earlier. I was l misled by that little bitch Mabel and said things I shouldn’t have. I hope you can forgive me.

Melody smirked and cut to the chase. Miss Sterling. Are you here to offer 40 million dollars for my herbs?

Exactly! Regina put on a flattering smile. These herbs, in total, would fetch at most 10 million dollars in the market. If you agree to sell them to me, Miss Fox, you could instantly make 30 million dollars. Why not take the offer?

Melody nodded, pretending to hesitate. You’re right. I wonder why are you buying my herbs even though you know you’ve lost over 20 million dollars?

Regina lowered her voice and said: To be honest, my mom wants to start a pharmaceutical company and needs these herbs to develop new products. But it’s not the season for Draba, and she is in a hurry, so we’re willing to pay a premium. Can you sell the Draba to me?

Melody arched an eyebrow and asked, who is your mom?

Regina hesitated, feeling wary. Why do you need to know that?

Melody shrugged. I need to make sure you’re telling the truth. If you won’t tell me, then, forget it. With that, she signaled the staff to follow her out.

Regina hesitated but ultimately didn’t chase after Melody. Her mom’s identity was too sensitive to reveal. Now without the Draba, Regina had to face her mom empty-handed. Seeing Melody leave, Regina bit her lip angrily and stormed away. But as she turned around, she ran into Mabel, who was holding the necklace. Regina was already fuming, and seeing Mabel, who always seemed to mess things up, made her even more furious.

Mabel, of course, couldn’t resist showing off. Regina! Did you get the herbs you wanted? You should know that my sister isn’t easy to deal with. Not like me… When you didn’t pay, I found someone who would. Do you know who bought this necklace for me? Before Regina could reply, Mabel continued, it was Ulric, the heir of the Swanson family! And I’m going to be a Mrs. Swanson someday. You’ll regret going back on your word Regina.

Regina was overwhelmed by all this information, her mind racing in all directions. She had thought the rumors about Mabel marrying into the Swanson family were just rumors. She never expected Ulric to buy the necklace as 20 million dollars was a lot of money, even for him. Jealousy flashed in Regina’s eyes, wondering: What does Mabel have? She’s shallow, mean, and stupid. Is it just her looks?

Regina quickly put on a regretful expression. With a fawning tone, she said: Mabel, I’m sorry… I was just flustered earlier. My mom is so strict, and I was really scared. You’re such an amazing person, I’m sure you won’t hold it against me, right?

Mabel enjoyed the flattery. Feeling better, she said: It’s good you know your place!

Regina sneered internally but pointed at Mabel’s face. Mabel, you’ve got something on your face!

Mabel, always conscious of her appearance, quickly asked: Where?

Here, let me help you. Regina gently wiped Mabel’s face with her sleeve, subtly smearing some powder on Mabel without being noticed.

All done. Regina pulled her hand back, smiling as she said: I’m so happy you forgive me! But I need to tell my mom, I couldn’t get the herbs, so I can’t stay.

Mabel’s anger had almost completely dissipated. Now that she had the necklace and had confirmed Ulric’s true feelings for her tonight, Regina inadvertently ended up helping her, even if by mistake. thinking of this, Mabel waved Regina off generously. Go ahead. I’m heading home too.

Melody might have paid, but our dad has no idea I have over 20 million dollars in my hands, thought Mabel, and she couldn’t wait to see the drama unfold when she got home.

Meanwhile, in the car parked by the road, James was vividly reporting everything that had happened that night to Ken.

After James finished, he couldn’t help but comment, Mr. Ken. You should have seen Miss Fox’s eyes light up when she saw the necklace! She kept bidding without considering your vase. If she had been too high profile and attracted attention, you might not have gotten the vase. He hesitated for a moment before cautiously continuing, Do you think you truly know Miss Fox? Maybe, deep down, she’s just someone else who loves vanity and seeks extravagance… After he spoke, he glanced up to gauge Ken’s reaction, expecting an outburst of anger. However, Ken’s expression remained calm, as if he hadn’t heard a word James had said.

Mr. Ken? James asked, puzzled. Did you hear me?

Ken finally turned his gaze toward James, his eyes clouded and unreadable. James.

James felt a chill run down his spine and instinctively straightened his back. Ken’s voice came out calm and measured. Do you really think… she bid that high on the necklace because she loves vanity and seeks extravagance?

Chapter 259

James felt confused by Ken’s question. You mean… she doesn’t? the next moment, his head was smacked by Ken, making him wince in pain.

If you had the wits that Melody had, I’d feel a lot more relaxed, Ken said, his tone flat.

James rubbed his head, feeling indignant. He complained inwardly, Melody might have some medical skills and a bit of cleverness, but when have I ever let you down? Still, he didn’t dare argue and asked timidly: Mr. Ken, what do you mean by that? If she doesn’t love vanity, why did she insist on buying that necklace?

She did it for… Ken replied. James was all ears, but just then, the car door swung open, and Melody popped her head in. Could you open the trunk? I need to put the items in the back.

Knowing Melody’s request, Ken stepped out of the car immediately to talk to the staff members. Seeing Ken, the staff were shocked for a second then quickly arranged for a separate car to transport the antique vase Melody had bought.

Melody muttered, is this really necessary?

James heard her and scoffed. That’s a heirloom of Mr. Ken’s mother, fragile too! How could it be put in the trunk?

Thoughtless! I don’t know why he thinks you’re smarter than me.

Melody ignored James’s first remark and focused on the latter. Ken thinks I’m smart? Curious, she thought, does this mean he acknowledges my abilities?

James chuckled. Do you really think you’re smart? Would a smart person put an antique vase worth a million dollars in the trunk?

Melody said nothing, used to James’ disdain. She got into the back seat. Soon, Ken came back, sitting beside her casually asked, your stuff’s in the trunk. Where to now?

Back to my family home, Melody replied.

Ken nodded indifferently, then suddenly said, You owe me three meals.

Melody was confused. When did that happen?

Ke turned to look at her, his gaze cold. You stayed at my place for a night. According to our agreement, a night’s stay means you owe me breakfast the next day.

Ken’s words reminded Melody. She remembered she had left Serenity Villa and moved back home the next morning to avoid disturbing Janet and Ken. She couldn’t believe that Ken treating her like a personal chef now, and she didn’t like the feeling. But since Ken had paid for the herbs and equipment tonight, she had no choice but to agree reluctantly, Fine! After I’m done with Icy Clear Cosmetics, I’ll cook for you for a day.

Ken’s face darkened further as Melody seemed unwilling. He thought to himself, across the whole Halcyon, all women would jump at the chance to cook for me. Yet, you were reluctant! Then he coldly said, I don’t like forcing people. If you don’t want to do it, forget it.

I don’t have to cook? Melody said quickly. Then forget it! Susan’s cooking is pretty good too.

Ken’s face turned black as he looked away, refusing to look at her again.

James snickered silently from the rearview mirror. Is this the way a smart person talks? She can’t even tell the difference between a true and false statement! I’m definitely smarter than her, he mocked inwardly.

Melody noticed Ken’s bad mood but didn’t understand why. Wasn’t it him who said I didn’t have to cook? She wondered but didn’t ask further or explain. She had learned that Ken was angry, anything she said would just make it worse. Ignoring him would let him cool down on his own.

Ken turned away, waiting for a while and seeing that Melody remained silent. His mood worsened. This stupid woman! He bellowed in his mind. Then, the two rode in silence throughout the way.

Half an hour later, they arrived at the residential complex of Melody’s family home. Melody got out of the car and said, Thanks for the ride. I’ll pay you back for the auction items in a few days. But I’ll leave my stuff with you for now and pick them up from Serenity Villa tomorrow. It’s a bit inconvenient to take it home now with everyone around.

Ken didn’t reply, just instructed James: Drive. As if he didn’t want to hear another word from her.

The car sped off quickly, like an arrow leaving a bow. Melody felt no turmoil, just relief. This meant Ken agreed to keep her things for now. Such a decent man, she thought as she glanced gratefully at the departing car and turned towards home.

As soon as Melody returned home, she heard Russell praising Mabel. You did great! If Ulric can spend 20 million dollars on a necklace for you, it means he really cares. You need to hold onto him tight and bring up marriage when you get the chance, understood? Russell believed, unlike Yolanda, that a girl’s modesty wasn’t valuable, so it’d be better to secure things early.

Mabel quickly nodded, though she felt a bit guilty. She wanted to marry into the Swanson family soon, but Ulric had been busy lately. Apart from a brief meeting at the pool hall, he hadn’t asked her out again. If he hadn’t paid for her today, she would have doubted her own charm. She knew she needed to find a way to get closer to him.

Just as Mabel was thinking, she saw Melody at the door. She immediately tried to stir up trouble, asking with concern, Melody, you’re back? Where did you get the money for the auction? You didn’t borrow from some shady place, did you? That would be bad if interest compounds like that, you’ll be unable to repay.

Russell, seeing Melody, got angry right away. Get over here!

Melody walked forward calmly and said, Dad.

Do you have the face to call me your father? Russell’s face was dark. Tell me, where did you get the money? And how much do you still have?

Upon hearing this, Melody glanced sideways at Mabel. Seeing the amused look on Mabel’s face, Melody instantly realized that Mabel had already told Russell everything that happened at the auction.

Without waiting for Melody to speak, Yolanda, with a lecturing tone, said. Melody, I may not be your biological mother, but I have to say that you’ve gone too far this time. How could you spend so much money on something unnecessary? Don’t you know the family is short on funds for building the factory? Do you only care about yourself and not this family?

Mabel and Yolanda, the duo spoke in turns, making Russell’s anger flare up even more. His eyes were sharp, almost as if he wanted to pierce through Melody.

Melody looked deeply at Russell. Her father, who had been so gentle and patient just yesterday, had now turned on her in an instant. Thinking that those who truly care about personal interests were ironically them, Melody felt a surge of disappointment but kept her face composed. She put on a hurt expression and softly said, Dad, you’ve misunderstood me.

Chapter 260

Misunderstood? Russell sneered. Explain it to me then, what have I misunderstood? That you didn’t buy anything at all, or that you have money but didn’t tell me?

Mabel quickly chimed in, Dad, don’t get angry. You’ve been so tired lately, getting angry will only make your health worse.

Russell gave Mabel an appreciative look before turning to glare at Melody. Compare your sister and yourself! I shouldn’t have brought you back! He took a deep breath and continued, Hand over your bank card. From now on, you’re not allowed to have more than 2,000 dollars in your account at any time! He added: As if it was a justification, I’m doing this for your own good.

For my own good? Melody scoffed inwardly, you are just greedy for my money, yet you claimed it was for my own benefit? Such shamelessness! She struggled to hide her disdain and continued, pretending to be aggrieved, explaining, Dad, you’ve misunderstood me. I don’t have any money. Tonight’s auction items were for Ken; he couldn’t attend, so he asked me to bid on his behalf. If you don’t believe me, you can call him and ask.

Hearing Ken’s name, Russell was taken aback, is it true?

Of course, it is. Think about it, when have I ever lied to you? Melody’s eyes were filled with sincerity. Her acting had improved significantly, and Russell couldn’t see any deceit.

Seeing that Russell’s anger was subsiding, Mabel quickly interjected, Dad, it’s easy to check if she has money in her account. What if she’s just using Ken’s name to scare you?

Yolanda frowned as she pondered: if Melody really was helping Ken, Mabel’s comment was inappropriate. She tried to smooth things over and said, we don’t doubt Melody. We are just concerned she might be borrowing money she shouldn’t. It’s best to clarify this matter.

Russell found this reasonable, Give me your card, and I’ll check it tomorrow. Melody still had millions of dollars in her account and she wasn’t willing to hand over her money to Russell. As she hesitated, Yolanda noticed and said faintly, what’s wrong, Melody? Why aren’t you handling the card? Are you lying to your father? You know he hates being lied to.

Russell repeated sternly. Give me the card! I… just as Melody was scrambling for an excuse, the doorbell rang.

Who could it be at this hour? Russell frowned, gesturing for the butler to open the door.

The door opened to reveal James, smiling as he entered. Mr. Fox, how have you been?

Seeing James, Russell’s heart skipped a heart, wondering. Could something have changed with the collaboration? He gave Melody a warning look and said in a low voice, I’ll deal with you later. He then put on a welcoming smile and approached James. Mr. Deeds. It’s so late. What brings you here? Is everything alright? Melody was also puzzled. Why has James come back? She thought.

James handed over a gift box with a smile. Mr. Ken asked me to deliver a gift to Miss Fox.

Relieved it wasn’t about the collaboration, Russell asked curiously, which Miss Fox? I have two daughters…

Mabel’s heart soared with hope, thinking, Could it be that Ken regretted rejecting my dessert? After all, I’m the most beautiful woman in Silverlake.

James glanced at the eager Mabel and smiled. Mabel’s eyes sparkled, and she couldn’t contain her excitement. Is the gift from Mr. Swanson for me?

Of course… James spoke up.

Mabel clutched her dress tightly in excitement.

The next second, it’s not you, James continued.

Mabel’s face turned pale, feeling humiliated. She clenched her fists but didn’t dare show her anger to James. Instead, she glared jealously at Melody. How could this ugly duckling be the one to receive the gift? She complained inwardly.

Russell, however, was delighted. Regardless of which daughter received the gift, it was still a good thing. He quickly asked, why did Ken send a gift to Melody?

Well… James explained; Miss Melody helped Mr. Ken bid on some items at the auction tonight. As a token of appreciation, he asked me to bring this gift.

Melody was taken aback, feeling a warmth in her heart as she pondered, he must have known I might face trouble at home, so he sent James again. He’s more considerate than I thought. Melody bit her lip, more determined than ever to align herself with Ken.

Is that so! Russell’s eyes lit up with understanding, and he looked at Melody with a bit of guilt. I have misunderstood you. You really haven’t lied, he thought. Feeling embarrassed, Russell shot an annoyed glance at Mabel. Mabel was shocked, clutching Yolanda’s sleeve for support.

Yolanda remained calm, smiling as she said: It’s an honor for Melody to help Mr. Swanson. We’re grateful he sent a gift. She then turned to Melody, motherly and gentle. Melody, you should thank Mr. Deeds for making a special trip so late.

Melody wanted nothing more than to ignore Yolanda, whose hypocrisy made her sick. Without looking at Yolanda, Melody accepted the gift and nodded at James. Thank you, please tell Mr. Swanson, I appreciate it.

James raised an eyebrow, murmuring inwardly, Mr. Ken treats you so well. If you don’t appreciate it, you’re an ingrate! As he was at the Fox family’s place, James, being kind-hearted, knew that saying these words would not be good for Melody, so he held back and nodded lightly. As long as you understand. It’s late, so I won’t disturb you all any further. Until next time. With that, he left, with Russell enthusiastically seeing him out.

As soon as James left, Russell turned to Melody with an apologetic look. Melody, why didn’t you explain earlier? I almost misunderstood you! You don’t blame me, do you?

Melody internally rolled her eyes but maintained a smile. It was a lot of money, easy to misunderstand. You were just worried about me, how could I blame you?

Satisfied, Russell nodded. You’re sensible. I’m glad you don’t hold it against me. It’s late, go rest. Don’t forget to text Mr. Swanson to thank him. He sent a gift; you need to show your appreciation.

Melody nodded obediently and walked toward the back garden, not sparing a glance for Yolanda and Mabel.

Mabel was fuming, but a glance at Russell’s angry gaze made her heart skip a beat, and she let out a startled cry, Dad…

Shut up! If you spread any more lies about your sister, don’t blame me for being harsh! Russell’s scolded.

Mabel bit her lip, looking for Yolanda for help.

Yolanda was also frustrated. She wondered why Melody could always manage to turn things around, but she kept her composure, saying; Mabel, you were wrong this time. Even if you were worried about your sister, you shouldn’t have spoken without knowing the facts. With a few words, she defused Russell’s anger.

Fine, fine! You meant well initially. Russell waved it off, letting the matter drop.

Yolanda subtly raised an eyebrow, hinting at past issues, subtly stirring the pot again.

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