Chapter 261
Russell. the auction isn’t the real issue here. What I’m most worried about is Melody getting involved in the pharmaceutical group’s bet. As soon as Yolanda mentioned this, Russell’s face darkened. He had almost forgotten about it.
Even though Russell had signed an agreement with Melody stating that whether she succeeded or failed in the bet, it wouldn’t affect him or the Fox family, he couldn’t shake the feeling that if she failed, the family might still get dragged into it. The more he thought about it, the more annoyed he became, his face contorting with frustration.
Yolanda noticed the change in Russell’s expression and felt a secret of joy, but outwardly she looked worried and continued to fan the flames. If she wins the bet, the benefits go to Icy Clear Cosmetics, and we get nothing. But do you think Icy Clear Cosmetics won’t come after us if she loses? Melody is still our daughter; that’s an undeniable fact.
Russel frowned deeply thinking of it. You’re right. That kid never considers the consequences of her actions.
Yolanda nodded. It’s a shame she didn’t grow up with us. If she had our guidance, she wouldn’t be like this. She paused, then lifted her gaze. Russell, why don’t you find time to talk to the Swansons about the marriage? When can we finalize it? Once Mabel marries into the Swanson family, we can handle the fallout if Melody fails the bet.
Mabel, listening from the side, was thrilled. Mom is amazing. With just a few words, she managed to drive a wedge between Dad and Melody and secure a benefit for me, She thought, proud of her mother. As she thought about her impending marriage to the Swanson family, her face flushed with excitement.
Russell was silent for a few seconds before saying, it’s too late today. Mom is probably already asleep. Tomorrow, I’ll go with her to the Swanson residence. You and Mabel don’t need to go; let Mom handle it.
But… Yolanda pretended to be worried. What if Mom favors Melody and insists the marriage is for Melody? I’m not being selfish, I’m just afraid the Swansons may reject Melody, and we’ll end with nothing.
You’re right, Russel replied seriously. Mom does favor Melody sometimes but don’t worry. When it comes to something this important, she’ll be sensible. And if she isn’t, I’ll convince her.
Relieved, Yolanda hooked her arm through Russell’s. You’ve been working hard these days. Let me help you with your bath.
Yolanda took good care of herself and maintained a strict diet. Even in her forties, she had the figure of a young lady, curvy where it mattered and slender everywhere. As she pressed close to Russell, he felt his body heat up. Alright, let’s go bathe. His eyes gleamed with desire as he embraced Yolanda and led her upstairs.
Mabel watched, and her admiration for her mother grew. If I had Mom’s skills in handling men, Ulric would already be mine. But it doesn’t matter; I have a feeling that Ulric will be mine very soon. As for Melody, let her face the consequences of failing the bet and dealing with the Clark family’s revenge; she pondered. The more Mabel thought about it, the happier she felt, humming a little tune as she headed upstairs.
Meanwhile, Melody had just finished taking Maria’s pulse. Seeing that Maria’s health was improving, Melody wrote a new prescription and handed it to Hattie. Get these herbs from Herbathrive tomorrow. Make sure Yolanda doesn’t notice.
Of course, Miss Melody, Hattie replied obediently.
After settling Maria; Melody returned to her room. She contacted the real estate Manager, instructing them to sell all the properties she had bought in Silverlake. Then she logged onto the black market forum.
After a few days of not logging into the forum, Melody found several unread messages in her inbox. Miss Seconds, I’ve verified that you indeed know the nine-line acupuncture technique. I’ve gathered the 200 million dollars you requested. The funds are in the forum account. Once you cure my leg, the money is yours.
Melody arched her eyebrow, thinking Ulric was desperate to cure his leg. But she planned to keep him waiting, so she replied; I’ll treat you, but besides the 200 million dollars, I need something else.
Ulric was online and replied quickly: What do you need?
Melody: [It’s simple. I’m a collector of Antiques. Ten years ago, a batch of antiques from Pearly Antiques was auctioned off. If you can find and buy them for me, I don’t need the 200 million dollars.]
Ulric: [Miss Seconds, that’s asking a lot. Those items have been out there for years. Even if I can buy them back from collectors, it could take years…]
Melody: [Don’t bluff me. I know your capabilities. You can get those antiques.]
Ulruc hesitated and replied: [I can gather the ones that are out there, but a large portion is with my brother, Ken. Those antiques mean a lot to him, and it’s hard to get them from him.]
Melody: [If it’s difficult, forget the ones he has. Just get me the rest.]
Ulric: [Alright, but I’ll need some time.]
Melody: [Take your time, I’m patient. ]
Ulric replied with a simple “okay” and logged off.
Melody stared at the screen, sighing regretfully. She could’ve gotten 200 million dollars from Ulric, but she was willing to take a hit for Ken. She closed the chat window and started looking for suitable bounties to take on.
Soon, Melody noticed a high-paying bounty. 10 million dollars for an authentic landscape painting by Morin Palmer. Her heart skipped a beat as she thought, Morin Palmer. Isn’t that me?
With Melody’s natural talent for painting and her teacher Quentin’s guidance, she used the pseudonym “Morin Palmer” to create many works and participated in numerous landscape painting competitions by mail. She didn’t expect to find a fan on the black market forum, and she accepted the bounty.
The fan replied to the message almost instantly. [You have an authentic painting by Morin Palmer? She hasn’t released any new works in years. Don’t try to fool me with a fake. My grandfather is her devoted fan and the current president of the National Painting Association in Halcyon. He can spot a fake immediately.]
Melody calmly replied: [I’m telling the truth. I can have her paint one for you on the spot. But the price…]
The fan: [Really? Price is no issue! If you can have Morin Palmer attend my grandfather’s birthday banquet in person, I’ll get you an extra 10 million dollars!]
Melody: [No problem. Send me the time and place.]
The fan: [This month, on the 27th, at Naymar Manor. I’ll send you two electronic invitations. Just bring them with you.]
With more than half a month left until the 27th, Melody agreed and logged off.
Meanwhile…
Chapter 262
After logging off the forum, Melody messaged Ken to tell him about her conversation with Ulric on the forum. But despite sending messages, it seemed to vanish into thin air, receiving no response whatsoever.
Meanwhile, Ken had just arrived at the entrance of the Lawrence family’s mansion, with dozens of police cars trailing behind him.
At the Lawrence residence, Sara was celebrating her 70th birthday, but by the time the birthday party ended, no one in the family could reach Barclay or Benny. Sara was anxious, her heart beating hard incessantly, and the entire party seemed distracted. Finally, after seeing off all the guests, she immediately summoned Fairlee and Barclay’s parents. Still no news of Barclay and Benny? She asked anxiously.
Fairlee and Barclay’s parents exchanged glances. Despite their worry, they didn’t want Sara to worry too much, fearing it might affect her health. So they tried their best to maintain composure.
Fairless spoke up first, Mom, don’t worry too much. Barclay is over 20, a big man now, and Benny knows his limits. If they’ve disappeared together… maybe they’re planning a surprise for you?
Frowning, Sara asked: A surprise? Even if they were planning one, the party is almost over. They should have shown up by now. Don’t try to hide anything from me. Tell me the truth! Have you already sent someone to look for them, but found nothing?
Sara had hypertension, and Fairlee didn’t want to upset her mother, so she insisted Barclay and Benny were planning a surprise for her. Rest assured and go get some rest. I promise they’ll give you a big surprise early tomorrow morning!
Really? Sara was skeptical.
Absolutely! Fairlee guaranteed.
Good then. Sara sighed in relief. Barclay is the only kid in our family. We can’t afford any mistakes. Last time, he ended up in the hospital after being beaten by a kid from the countryside, and I haven’t had a chance to settle that score yet. When he comes home, make sure he comes to see me first thing.
Sure. You should rest now, Fairlee urged.
Sara agreed and just as she was about to go upstairs, the butler rushed in hastily. Mrs. Sara! Something big has happened.
Sara’s heart skipped a beat, and the ominous feeling she had just suppressed surged back. But she was the head of the household after all, so she showed a composed expression and sternly scolded, Why so flustered? Have you forgotten my usual discipline? After a few more reprimands, she finally asked, What happened?
The butler was in a panic, but seeing Sara ask, he quickly said, Something big has happened! Mr. Swanson has arrived with a group of policemen in our direction.
Fairlee, standing at the side throughout, finally sensed something was wrong and hurriedly asked; Are you talking about Ken Swanson? Why is he bringing the police here?
I’m not sure about that either. The butler was confused.
Sara’s expression froze unnaturally when she heard Ken’s name. Distant memories flooded her mind. It was of a woman lying on an autopsy table, pale but strikingly beautiful. The woman, already declared dead, suddenly opened her eyes weakly, pleading for help. Yet, Sara just coldly glanced past her, administering a sedative before the woman was swiftly cremated.
Just as the butler finished speaking, a deep voice, Sara’s spine instantly stiffened, and her eyes subconsciously looked towards the door. She saw the face of the woman in her memory almost overlapping with the face of the man at the door. She took a step back and reached for her forehead, which was already covered in sweat, thinking: The mother and son… look too much alike. But the secret would never have been discovered, and Ken was just a child then, so he can’t be here for me.
Sara quickly composed herself and asked in a cold, steady voice, Ken, what do you mean by this? It’s my 70th birthday, and you show up with a bunch of police barging into my house? Don’t you know if I’ve broken any laws celebrating my birthday at home?
Ken gave a faint smile. Mrs. Sara, no need to be nervous. Today’s affair has nothing to do with you, but I’m afraid your birthday might not end on a happy note.
Sara was furious. What exactly are you up to? Is this how your grandmother taught you to speak to elders?
Ken smiled without responding, just gesturing upwards with his hand. Several police officers stepped forward, holding up a warrant. Fairlee Lawrence, you’re suspected of serious misconduct. According to the law, we’re here to arrest you. Please cooperate.
Fairlee was shocked. what misconduct? You can’t arrest me like this! The police ignored her protests, forcefully dragging her out of the room.
Stop! I won’t let anyone touch her! Sara hurried forward, only to be intercepted by Ken.
Mrs. Sara, they have a warrant. It’s best you cooperate, or you might seriously obstruct justice; Ken reminded her.
You… Sara glared at Ken through gritted teeth. If they’re arresting someone, it should be you, the brute who hurt his own brother! Fairless has always been upright and law-abiding. What law did she break?
Before Sara could finish, other police officers had already entered and quickly found Bobby, who had been confined to a room, grounded.
Seeing Bobby being taken away too, Sara instantly understood what was happening. Her face turned ashen, and she coldly stared at Ken. Even if they’ve done something wrong, it’s none of your business, Ken.
Ken pulled his lip in what seemed like a smirk. I’m not here about their business. I just came to inform you, out of respect for my grandmother, that Barclay and Benny have also been taken away to the police station. I was afraid you wouldn’t find them on your 70th birthday, so I came to remind you. Since you don’t need my reminder, I’ll leave.
Barclay, Benny… Sara’s legs gave way, and she collapsed to the floor.
Barclay’s parents hurried to help Sara up, Barclay’s mother crying as she asked, Ken. What happened to Barclay? He’s a sensible boy. How could he end up in the police station?
Well… Ken looked into the distance, his gaze profound, and spoke indifferently. Their situation is currently confidential. But if you want to know, I could reveal a little.
Sara struggled to regain her senses and asked: What exactly happened to them? What will it take for you to tell me?
It’s simple. Ken stared straight at Sara. You were a forensic doctor, and you were in charge of my mother’s autopsy after she passed away. What I want is her autopsy report.
Sara’s mind buzzed loudly, wondering; Why Ken suddenly wanted these things after all this time? Has he suspected something? She forced herself to stay calm, but her trembling hands gave her way. She looked away and said: I’ve been retired for so long. How could I possibly have those things?
You don’t? Lem replied coolly after studying Sara for a moment. Since you don’t, let’s just forget I asked. Barclay and Benny are implicated in allegations of maliciously causing injury to others. As for the rest… you’ll see it on the news tomorrow.
Chapter 263
Ken’s words hit the Lawrence family like a heavy blow to the heart.
Malicious injury alone could lead to several years in prison, let alone whatever else might have come to light. Fairlee and Bobby had been taken away, and now Barclay and Benny were facing the same fate. Every promising member of the Lawrence family was now behind bars, and the family’s future was in ruins.
Sara’s vision darkened, and she collapsed unconscious.
Mom… Cries echoed through the Lawrence residence, but Ken didn’t look back as he left. The Lawrence family had brought it upon themselves, that was all there was to it.
After leaving, Ken returned straight to his car. Drive! his voice was cold, brows furrowed, lips tight, radiating a chilling aura that made James feel Ken was on thin ice. James dared not ask what had happened, driving cautiously until they arrived at the Serenity Villa’s gate. Mr. Ken,, We’re here, James finally dared to utter.
Without a travel of emotion in his voice, Ken ordered. To the Swanson Villa. This surprised James, as Ken rarely voluntarily returned to the family villa. James wondered what had happened. However, unsure of what to expect, he shot a sideways glance at Ken but didn’t dare ask further. Instead, he just replied, Okay and the car sped away toward the villa.
The next day came in a flash. Melody woke to her alarm blaring. She instinctively checked her phone; still no reply from Ken to her message. Something felt off, but she didn’t want to disturb him, so she held back from messaging again.
However, she stumbled upon the headline news of the day by chance. The Lawrence family in Silverlake was implicated in criminal activities; Fairlee and Benny Lawrence were detained for investigation. Melody’s heart skipped a beat; she hadn’t expected Ken to move so fast.
Quickly clicking into the news, Melody found detailed accounts of Fairlee and Benny’s alleged crimes, along with accusations of how Bobby and Barclay had bullied people in the past. The comments section was flooded with criticisms of the Lawrence family. It was clear that with this news, the entire Lawrence family, except for Barclay’s parents, was likely done. Yet, since Barclay’s parents were in business, their reputation could still take a hit.
Just then, James’s call came through. As soon as Melody answered, she heard James’s displeased voice. Melody, I didn’t realize you were this scheming! Mr. Ken is already married to you, what more do you want? Do you think announcing your marriage can secure your position as a Mrs. Swanson? You have to know that once your marriage news goes public, you’ll become Silverlake’s laughingstock and target!
Melody couldn’t help but frown. James, what are you talking about? When did I ever want to announce our marriage?
Don’t pretend. I know everything now! I used to admire your capability, but now I realize I was fooled! With that, James hung up abruptly. Melody’s mind was spinning with questions; she couldn’t resist calling back, but the line went dead after two rings. James had hung up on her.
Melody pursed her lips, confused about what happened. She quickly got up, washed, and went to check on Maria as usual, taking her pulse before heading to the living room for breakfast.
Normally, this would be the time when Russell and Yolanda would also be having breakfast, but the dining room was empty. Instead, Melody found Mabel in high spirits, sitting on the sofa and playing with her phone. Mabel smiled as she saw Melody. “Good morning, Melody!”
Melody was surprised; normally, Mabel wouldn’t greet her. Mabel and James’s unusual behaviors made Meldoy feel uneasy. She wondered what had happened.
Unable to find answers from Mabel, Melody headed straight to James to get some clarity after everything was settled in the morning. Ignoring Mabel’s smug and disdainful gaze, she quickly ate breakfast and hailed a taxi to leave. Mabel leisurely sipped her coffee, watching Melody leave. She had wanted so badly to show off in front of Meldoy just now, but she managed to hold herself back. Until everything was settled, Mabel knew she needed to keep herself cool.
As she stood up, preparing to go to make another cup of coffee, she suddenly felt her face itching. She couldn’t help scratching it, feeling a bit strange. Since last night, her face had been feeling itchy, but nothing showed on the surface; it still looked smooth and hydrated.
Is it that I haven’t been cleaning properly recently? My face is the most important asset; thinking this, Mabel abandoned her coffee, went upstairs, and started doing facial cleanse, even arranging for a beautician to come over for a deep cleaning at home.
On the other side, after Melody left, she went straight to the Serenity Villa. The equipment she needed for her new product was still with Ken; she had to get it back to continue her work.
However, upon arriving at Serenity Villa, Susan informed her that Ken hadn’t returned home the previous night. Susan reminded her that if Mr. Ken didn’t come back to stay, he would most likely stay at the Swanson’s Villa. If he’s on a business trip, he usually informs me. Why don’t you go to the villa and ask?
Melody nodded. I guess, I’ll have to. Without the equipment, she couldn’t continue her work today.
About half an hour later, the car arrived at the Swanson’s villa. The villa was as grand and luxurious as ever, exuding understated opulence. But Melod noticed that Russell’s car was parked at the gate.
Why is Russell’s here? Melody doubted in her mind as she entered the estate. The security guard at the gate was very polite to her, smiling as he led the way. Mrs. Margaret was asking about you yesterday, saying you hadn’t visited her in a few days. And now here you are. But she went out for breakfast; she’s not home right now, but she should be back soon.
Melody nodded, distracted by her many doubts. Without bothering to chat with the guard, she just responded with a few perfunctory words. No problem. I’m just here to pick up something and then leave.
As she reached the villa’s entrance, she heard Russell’s voice. Mrs. Swanson, what do you mean by that? What do you mean Ken has already married our daughter? It’s true our family isn’t what it used to be, but you can’t just break our original agreement with such a ridiculous lie that nobody believes.
Melody couldn’t help but stop in her tracks, turning her head to signal the guard to keep quiet. Not reporting her arrival was against the rules, but the guard knew that Margaret favored Melody, so he cooperated and stayed silent.
Astrid’s voice rang out with a hint of mockery. It seems like you still don’t know… Didn’t Melody tell you? She’s already married to Ken. It happened right after you locked her up and she got a fever that landed her in the hospital.
What… what? Russell’s heart was filled with shock and elation. Beside him, Yolanda’s face drained of color, turning as white as a sheet. Mrs. Swanson, You can’t joke about something like this…
Chapter 264
What will happen to Mabel if Melody has married into the Swanson family? Isn’t it that Mabel will be suppressed by Melody, that bitch’s daughter, for the rest of her life? No! I will not allow it, absolutely not! Thought, Yolanda.
Yolanda indignantly asked, Mrs. Swanson, say something. You were joking, weren’t you?
Russell was also anxious for an answer. Of course, his thoughts were different from Yolanda’s. He just wanted to confirm if he had secured a lifetime of wealth and glory.
Astrid slowly turned to look at Ken, who remained silent beside her. She said with a half-smile, Ken, it is your marriage; tell them yourself.
Melody who was at the door, heard Ken was also present, and she stopped in her tracks.
For some reason, she wanted to know how Ken would answer.
In the next second, Ken said calmly, marriage is a big deal. How can you joke with them?
Astrid was stunned before her lips curled into a sneer.
She thought Ken might have Melody, the ugly country bumpkin, in his heart. It seemed Ken was showing it to Margaret.
The men in the Swanson family were all like that. Each was colder than the other.
Yolanda’s anxious heart instantly relaxed when she heard Ken’s words. She knew it, how could Ken be married to Melody?
With Melody’s temper, if she had already registered her marriage with Ken, she would have used the matter to suppress Yolanda and her daughter.
Melody could not help but lower her eyes at the door.
That’s right! How can Ken admit to his marriage with me? Ken and I are worlds apart in the eyes of the outsiders; Melody thought.
Melody knew all that, but why did her mood suddenly turn bad?
Inside the house…
Yolanda turned her gaze to Russell, whose eyes were filled with disappointment.
Yolanda looked at the expression on Russell’s face and knew it was the same for him no matter which of his daughters married into the Swanson family.
Yolanda became even more determined to win the marriage for Mabel after she realized that.
She moved her lips and said carefully: Mrs. Swanson. Maria was supposed to come over today, but Maria said that she’s old and doesn’t like to move around. She asked us to come over and discuss these things on her behalf. Therefore, we would like to get a definite word from you and make the elderly feel at ease.
Russell, who was beside her, immediately got back on his feet. Astrid couldn’t take a fancy to Melody. Now, only his second daughter could be useful. Russell said, back then, the child betrothal was originally set to be Melody, but Melody grew up in the countryside and didn’t understand many things. We don’t want to make things difficult for you, so we will let Mabel marry over. What do you think?
Astrid instantly frowned.
Ken was married. The only person who could marry Mabel was Uric, her precious son.
However, Ulric’s future wife had to be the daughter of the great family. He was not someone a daughter of the mere Fox family could match up to.
She said: Well… it still depends on the fate of the two children. There’s a saying that goes, You can take a horse to the water but you cannot make him drink. You’ve probably heard of it, haven’t you?
Russell quickly said: If you’re worried about this, there’s actually no need. The two children have been in contact since Margaret’s birthday party last time. They’re a good match and appreciate each other. As long as we seniors agree, they’ll be together.
Appreciate each other?
Astrid almost squeezed out these words from between her teeth.
Yeah! Russell said without hesitation. Didn’t Mr. Ulric give Mabel a necklace worth 20 million dollars just yesterday?
What did you say? Astrid’s face instantly darkened. She blurted out in denial, That’s impossible!
She knew well what kind of person her so was. He couldn’t be restricted to these love affairs.
However, Astrid immediately realized she had lost composure. She covered her nose and coughed dryly. Ulric is not at home today. How about this? I’ll ask him for his opinion another day. If Ulric and Mabel are in love, I won’t be the villain who broke them.
Russell was overjoyed. You agree?
Astrid did not comment and said vaguely: They are still young. There’s no rush. Let them continue to nurture their relationship first.
Okay! Okay! Russell replied repeatedly. As long as Astrid did not refuse on the spot, there was a high chance that the marriage would succeed.
James’s voice sounded from the door at that moment.
Miss Fox, why are you sneaking around at the door?
James raised his voice to let the people inside know Melody was eavesdropping.
He did not hear what Mr. and Mrs. Fox said, but he assumed they were here to force the young master to announce his marriage when he saw them coming over.
After the wedding was announced, the ones who benefited the most were the Justalion Group of the Fox family and Melody. No one dared to bully Melody anymore.
However, his young master would become a chess piece in that way. He could not tolerate it.
Melody’s heart skipped a beat when she heard James’s voice.
Everyone inside had quieted down. They knew she was at the door. Melody has no choice but to walk in and greet Yolanda and Ken. Then, she called Dard, and Yolanda.
Ken looked at Melody in surprise.
Did she hear about my denial of marriage just now?
On the other side, Russell did not expect Melody to come over at all. He felt displeased. What are you doing here?
Isn’t she upset because she knows they are giving the wedding to Mabel? with that thought in mind, Russell started to get angry at Melody.
The girl is good at everything else, but she often challenges my authority as her father, which makes me dislike her very much!
His face turned cold. Since you’ve heard everything, I’ll be frank. Although this marriage was arranged for you back then, it’s obvious that your sister is more suitable to marry into the Swanson family now. You don’t have a problem with that, do you?
His tone made it seem like she didn’t know what was good for her if she had any objections.
As a father, it was rare for him to be so biased!
She looked up and saw Astrid looking at them mockingly as if the Fox family were clowns. However, Astrid’s gaze still bothered her.
The wicked mother-in-law of the last life. Melody knew too well how to make her unhappy.
Melody moved her lips and said with a smile: I have no objections. Just like Dad said, my sister and Mr. Ulric are a match made in heaven. I always felt that my sister was more suitable for him than me from the beginning. Moreover, they are in love with each other. It’s best if they get married as soon as
possible and give birth to a baby for me to play with.
Look down early, don’t be an eyesore in front of me! Melody thought. Melody glanced at Astrid’s expression from the corner of her eye as she spoke.
Chapter 265
Sure enough, Astrid’s expression turned living from the mockery just now. Her eyes were filled with anger as if she wanted to kill her with her gaze.
Melody indifferently continued, When are Mr. Ulric and my sister getting married? I’ve never been a bridesmaid before. Can I be their bridesmaid?
Of course. Of course! Russell was so happy that his eyes narrowed into slits as he looked at Melody with satisfaction.
Melody is easy to fool. It is the benefit of raising her in the countryside all year round, thought Russell.
Russell turned to ask Astrid with a smile, Mrs. Swanson, look. The children are optimistic about this marriage. Why don’t we find another day to settle this matter?
Astrid choked, and her expression turned even uglier.
However, if she broke off the engagement now, Russell, the snobbish, might play some tricks and make the Swanson family bear a reputation for not keeping their word.
After much thought, Astrid, sweating profusely, said: It’s up to them.
Nodding,, Russell pressed, How about we make an appointment for a formal dinner between our two families to discuss the children’s marriage?
It can wait… Astrid tried hard to maintain her fake smile and said, Ulric’s legs are currently under treatment. It’s not appropriate for him to be ostentatious in his current state. Let’s talk about it together after Ulric’s leg healed.
Then Astrid pretended to be tired and stood up. I didn’t sleep well last night. I’ll go upstairs and rest. Help yourselves.
Then Astrid hurried upstairs, not giving Russell a chance to speak again.
Russell vaguely felt something was wrong but he did not overthink it. He was certain the Swanson family cared about their reputation and did not dare to break the engagement without reason.
On the other hand, Yolanda had long known that Astrid did not like her daughter. She frowned worriedly and turned to look at Melody. She had a feeling that Melody was up to something. Otherwise, how could Melody give up the marriage to Mabel so easily?
However, Melody’s expression was calm. There was no jealousy or unwillingness in her eyes.
Could it be that… Melody doesn’t care about the Swanson family’s glory? Yolanda thought.
Yolanda was thinking what was in Melody’s mind. When she looked up, she saw Russell smiling as he sat beside Ken.
Mr. Swanson, the collaboration you mentioned last time… I wonder how it’s going?
Melody only felt embarrassed when she saw Russell like that.
Ken said calmly: I have asked my father about the collaboration. We can sign the contract when he comes back and the board approves it. However, the Justalion Group has to pay special attention to its image during this time. There can’t be any negative news. Otherwise, the company directors are likely to vote against it.
Understood. Understood… Russell nodded repeatedly. He patted his chest and promised, I would particularly pay attention to the company’s and the Fox family’s personal image as well.
Yes, Ken nodded.
In that case, we’re leaving.
As Russell spoke, he bowed to Ken obsequiously and turned around to call Yolanda and Melody. Let’s go.
Melody hesitated. She had come to the manor to get something, not to watch the show. However, Yolanda misunderstood Melody’s hesitation. She believed Melody must be outwardly blessing Mabel but secretly trying to sabotage Mabel.
Melody might do something once they are gone. With that in mind, Yolanda deliberately called out to Melody, Melody why are you still standing there? Come with us. I’m going to buy some clothes for Mabel this afternoon, and some for you too. You’re usually dressed too plainly, which will affect the image of the Fox family.
I still have something on… I can’t go shopping with you, Melody replied.
Yolanda was even more certain of her guess when she saw Melody reject her. She frowned and fanned the flames by Russell’s ear. Russell, Melody refuses to leave. Could it be she’s still unwilling to give up the marriage to Mabel? She must have heard something when she came here in such a hurry.
Russell’s smile disappeared instantly when he heard Yolanda’s words. Why aren’t you leaving? He said to Melody in a commanding tone.
Melody pursed her lips and was about to walk out when Ken suddenly said: Mr. Fox, could you lend me Miss Fox if you don’t have anything special?
Russell was stunned. Borrow Melody?
Yes! I asked Miss Fox to accompany my grandma today. My grandma likes to chat with people after she recovers. She even talked about Miss Fox yesterday. Therefore, I specially asked Miss Fox to come here to accompany my grandma.
Is that so? Russell pretended to be angry and looked at Melody. Why didn’t you tell me earlier since Mr. Swanson asked you to come here?
Then Russell smiled and said to Ken, Melody usually has nothing to do and is free. If Mrs. Margaret and you don’t mind, you can ask her to come over every day to accompany Mrs. Margaret to relieve her boredom.
Ken raised his eyebrows and gave a half-smile, Yes.
Then we won’t bother you anymore. Russell bowed and dragged Yolanda out of the door.
Yolanda’s eyes were filled with fear as she was dragged out of the villa by Russell. When they were outside on the lawn, Russell stopped smiling and looked at Yolanda coldly, saying, Look at what you’ve done! Melody is only here to visit Mrs. Margaret but what about you? You’re so mean! Can’t you accept Melody?
Yolanda quickly explained, No, of course not! I’ve always treated Melody as my daughter. You know that! I said that just now because I didn’t know the situation and was afraid she would be holding up the future of the Fox family. You can’t misunderstand me like this… Yolanda started to cry as she spoke. Her eyes made Russell’s anger instantly subside.
Alright, don’t cry… I misunderstood you. I’ve remembered everything you’ve done for our family. Don’t cry.
Yolanda took the opportunity to throw herself into Russell’s arms and cried pitifully.
However, neither Russell nor Yolanda noticed Ken and Melody were looking straight at them on the balcony of the room on the second floor.
Your stepmother is not easy to deal with, Ken uttered.
Melody looked indifferently at Russell and Yolanda who were embracing each other. She said expressionlessly, of course, those successful homewreckers are not ordinary people.
Yolanda was so good at coaxing men that Melody had never met a second. She retracted her gaze in disgust and looked at Ken. I’m here to get the herbs, but James seems to misunderstand me…
Your herbs are still in the trunk. I’m going out anyway. I’ll drive you straight to the office later.
Ken paused and added, James, the fool, has been living too smoothly by following me. He is simple-minded and can’t tell good from evil. I’ll talk to him another day.
No, thanks, Melody replied, shaking her head. He has always been biased against me, but I believe time will prove everything.
She thought of the news she had watched in the morning and could not help but ask, The Lawrence family has always been on good terms with the Swanson family. Will Mr. Ramon have a problem with you doing this to Lawrence’s family when he returns?
Doesn’t matter.
Melody could not help but utter, Actually, you don’t have to do this for me. I didn’t suffer much…
Don’t worry. It’s not for you. Sara has a lot to do with my mother’s death, but it was so long ago that a lot of traces had been destroyed. Only by destroying this generation of the Lawrence family can Sara give herself away.
Melody could not help but feel a little awkward when she heard that.
She was overthinking…
How could Ken take the risk to go against Ramon for me?
She pursed her lips and scolded herself inwardly when she suddenly saw a car parked outside the villa from the corner of her eye. The person who got out was Sara.
Daisy Novels 
Thank you for the updates
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My pleasure. :)
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