Melody Strikes Back by Myra Walker (Chapters 301, 302, 303, 304, and 305)

Chapter 301 – Unexpected Guest

Yolanda noticed the joy on Mabel’s face and asked curiously. “Who is this Mr. Morgan?”

With a hint of pride, Mabel deliberately raised her voice and said, “He’s one of Halcyon’s top scientific researchers with many major projects in his hands, so he’s highly respected in the academic world.”

Yolanda nodded repeatedly and asked in surprise, “Is he here for you?”

“Yes, I think so.” Mabel glanced at Russell and added, “I have a double major, and my mentor wants to introduce me to Mr. Morgan’s research team, but Mr. Morgan gave me a problem to solve first, and If I solve it correctly, I’ll have the chance to interview with him, but I didn’t expect him to come here himself today.”

While Mabel was excited, she also felt a bit worried, wondering if Ander was here to ask for an earlier submission of the solution.

She hadn’t solved the problem yet as she had no clue, while the expert on the forum hadn’t replied to her request for help.

Soon after contemplation, Mabel calmed down, thinking she could make an excuse, claiming that she had yet to start solving the question due to busying with her thesis. On the other side, upon hearing about Ander’s impressive status, Russell immediately instructed the servant to hide the whip.

He felt that Mabel didn’t even need the title of “Best Celebrity” if she entered Halcyon’s research team because this prestigious position would attract all the elite families. Russell found it to be a great surprise as it seemed like Mabel was going to marry into the Swanson family soon. Observing Russell’s expression, Mabel deliberately asked, Dad, since Mr. Morgan is here, what about Melody’s issue?” “Ignore her for now as Mr. Morgan is more important.”

Russell’s joy was evident, and he didn’t hesitate to praise,” Luckily I have a daughter like you. Melody is useless, but you always make me proud.”

Mabel’s lips curved into a smile while there was a hint of smugness in her shyness.

Meanwhile, Melody was also surprised that Ander would come as Lucas was supposed to be fine now,

While she wondered if Ander was here to recruit Mabel, she remembered that in her previous life, Mabel never entered the research circle due to her lack of capabilities.

On the other side, Russell had already instructed the servants to invite Ander and Zoe inside, not forgetting to also glare at Melody and scold her in a low voice, “Look and compare yourself to Mabel, when will you learn even a little of what she knows? When Mr. Morgan arrives, just stay quiet, understood?”

Melody raised an eyebrow, smirking slightly, and asked, “Do you want me to stay completely quiet?”

Russell said, “Of course, do you think I’m joking? If you dare say a word, I’ll give you ten extra lashes.”

Ten whips were enough to cause serious internal injuries.

Melody nodded. “Alright, I won’t say a word, just hope you won’t ask me to speak later.”

Russell said coldly, “I won’t.”

Melody nodded again and wore a determined look of saying nothing, but she sneered in her heart, knowing that even if Ander was here to look for Mabel, he would have to say a few words to her.

Hence, she was excited to see how Russell would beg her to talk then.

Yolanda noticed the strange smile on Melody’s face and frowned, thinking, ‘What’s with this girl? She seems odd.

Just then, Yolanda suddenly remembered the butler telling her yesterday that someone surnamed Morgan had called to ask for Melody’s phone number.

Yolanda started to wonder if Ander was the one who called, but she quickly rejected the idea, thinking, ‘It’s impossible, Melody has no such qualifications, and there are so many people with the surname Morgan.’

Thinking of this, Yolanda calmed down and quietly reminded Mabel to perform well later, then Mabel nodded repeatedly with a solemn expression, knowing very well that her future would be bright if she could join Ander’s team.

*****

Ander and Zoe finally entered while Russell and Mabel enthusiastically welcomed them when Yolanda went to prepare some drinks.

Russell said, “Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, we didn’t expect you to visit. Here are some drinks.”

Ander smiled politely as he responded, “Thank you but we won’t have the drink, we have something urgent to discuss with…”

Before Ander could finish speaking, Russell interrupted, “To discuss with Mabel, right?” Then, Russell continued to praise Mabel who was standing beside him, “Mabel has always made us proud as she was first in her class from elementary school and maintained that till university. If we weren’t reluctant to let her leave home, she would have gone to the University of Insterimond.”

Russell boasted about Mabel and those who didn’t know better might believe that Mabel could enter the University of Insterimond.

Although Ander and Zoe looked puzzled upon hearing his words, Russell didn’t think too much and reached out to gently nudge Mabel, urging, “Mabel, what are you waiting for? Hurry up and greet Mr. Morgan.”

Mabel finally got a chance to speak, humbly saying, “Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, I didn’t expect you to come. I’ve been busy with my thesis lately, and if I had known that you would visit, I would’ve worked on the problem you gave me first. But don’t worry, I’ll solve that question in a few days and make you satisfied.”

Ander was confused and looked at Zoe because he often forgot minor details and it was Zoe who helped him note things down when he was dedicated to his research.

Zoe reminded him, “Recently, the professors from the University of Silverlake asked you to select some students for the research team, right?”

When Ander realized, smiling at Mabel. “You’re from the University of Silverlake, right? Your professors wanted to recommend students for our team, are you one of them?” Mabel’s expression slightly changed because she thought she was the only one recommended, not expecting there to be others.

Besides, since Ander’s words implied he wasn’t here for her, Mabel felt a surge of panic as she had just bragged to Russell.

At this moment, Russell finally felt that something was wrong, hesitated for a moment, and couldn’t help but ask Mr. Morgan, aren’t you here to look for Mabel?”

Ander subconsciously blurted out, “Of course not, when so many people want to join my team, how would I have the time to visit them one by one?”

After saying that, Ander realized that he was being straightforward again, so coughed awkwardly and looked at Zoe.

Zoe shook her head, apologetically telling Russell, “Sorry, Mr. Fox. Ander has been too focused on his research and isn’t good with words, please don’t mind.”

Russell waved his hands. “No problem, but if you’re not here for Mabel, who are you looking for?”

Chapter 302 – Not Speaking

No matter how hard Russell thought, he couldn’t imagine anyone else that Ander and Zoe could be looking for besides Mabel, and it was least possible they were looking for Melody.

However, the next second, Zoe said, “We’re here to see your daughter, Melody. Is she around?”

Russell and Mabel completely blocked Zoe and Ander’s line of sight, so they didn’t see that Melody was standing in the corner of the living room.

As soon as Zoe’s words fell, both Russell and Mabel widened their eyes in shock.

Mabel’s surprise quickly gave way to jealousy when she wondered why Zoe and Ander were here for Melody, finally thinking that her earlier excitement had turned into a complete joke.

Russell was stunned because this was the least likely scenario he expected, and then he thought, “How is it possible that they are here to look for Melody? Why will they overlook someone as outstanding as Mabel for someone worthless like Melody?”

At this moment, Yolanda, who entered with drinks and snacks was unaware of what had transpired and her face beamed with joy.

Since Mabel was born, Yolanda had hoped Mabel would become successful in the future, so now Yolanda was cheerful that Mabel didn’t disappoint her.

Having just searched online in the kitchen, Yolanda discovered Ander was a leading figure in the research field, also the head of the Halcyon Research Institute, whom even the wealthiest tycoons had to respect.

And now, Mabel had unexpectedly connected with such an influential figure, making Yolanda ecstatic as she thought;” Today is truly a good day. Not only did we succeed. remove Hattie from the Fox family, ensuring she’ll never return, but we also have Ander as a pleasant surprise.

The more Yolanda thought about it, the happier she became, and she was so immersed in her joy that she failed to notice the expressions on Russell and Mabel’s faces, only cheerfully greeting the Morgan couple, “Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, I’ve prepared some drinks and snacks for you. Please sit and chat with Mabel, she often mentions you, saying she wants to follow your lead. She is thrilled you could come, so please stay and chat for a while.”

The more Yolanda spoke, the more Russell and Mabel’s faces darkened. “Yolanda, stop,” Russell said with his face tightening in embarrassment, while Yolanda was confused, wondering if she had said something wrong.

Mabel finally could not take it anymore and said, “Mom, they’re here to look for Melody.”

Upon hearing this, the tray dropped from Yolanda’s hands, shattering the glasses and spilling water everywhere.

Russell had never felt so humiliated, suppressing his anger before saying, “Yolanda, hurry up and clean up this mess.” “Alright.” Jolted back to reality, Yolanda hurriedly instructed the servants to clean up, but her mind was still racing when she confirmed that Ander was the one called to ask for Melody.

Clenching her fists in frustration, Yolanda wondered why this was happening.

As they each stewed in their thoughts, Ander and Zoe sensed the strange atmosphere in the house but had no time to dwell on it.

When Zoe spotted Melody standing quietly in the corner, her eyes lit up as she greeted, “Melody, there you are, I was worried you had gone to bed.”

Seeing Melody merely smile without speaking, Zoe asked in confusion, “Melody, is your throat bothering you? Why aren’t you talking?”

Upon seeing Melody shaking her head but remaining silent, Ander grew concerned and asked Russell, “Mr. Fox, what’s wrong with Melody? Why isn’t she speaking?”

Knowing that Melody’s character was not lacking in manners, Ander and Zoe only felt that something was bothering her.

Russell didn’t react immediately and took a few steps toward Melody before saying with a scolding tone, “Mr. and Mrs. Morgan are speaking to you, why aren’t you responding at all?”

Melody raised an eyebrow but remained silent, while her gaze seemed meaningful and slightly mocking when she looked at Russell with a faint smile.

Russell found himself momentarily frozen under Melody’s intense gaze and suddenly, a memory of his past conversation with Melody flashed through his mind:

He recalled that he had previously asked Melody to keep quiet and warned her to whip her ten more times if she said any unnecessary words.

Russell shuddered as the realization hit him like a ton of bricks, making his face pale.

“Mr. Fox, what’s wrong with Melody? Don’t scare us,” Zoe said anxiously as she walked up to Melody and checked Melody for any signs of discomfort.

However, Russell’s mouth twitched, unable to respond to Zoe’s inquiry when he finally realized why Melody didn’t say a word throughout.

Knowing that it was impossible to reveal that Melody wasn’t speaking because he had forbidden her to do so, Russell felt a mix of regret and anger at this moment.

He regretted threatening Melody and resented her for not cooperating in front of the guests.

As Ander also approached to check on Melody, sweat poured down Russell’s face as he desperately signaled Melody to speak, but she ignored him and didn’t look at him at all.

Russell became even more anxious and paced around in frustration since he had never been at a loss in his life.

Suddenly, a thought struck him, and then he quickly approached a servant and retrieved a whip hidden by the servant before tossing it into the trash, signaling to Melody that he wouldn’t hurt her anymore.

Upon seeing this, Melody raised an eyebrow and finally spoke, “Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, I’m fine.”

Russell let out a long sigh and wiped the sweat off his forehead, feeling extremely exhausted.

Ander and Zoe relieved when they finally heard Melody speak, relaxed their tense expressions. “Melody, I’m glad that you’re okay; why didn’t you speak earlier?” Zoe asked curiously.

Melody explained with a smile, “I was practicing a

traditional medicine technique to relieve fatigue, so I didn’t respond immediately, I apologize.”

Zoe waved off the apology. “It’s fine, we’re just glad everything is fine. It seems that my worry is unnecessary as with your medical skills, you wouldn’t feel unwell.”

Melody nodded, then asked under the envious and furious gazes of Yolanda and Mabel, “Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, what brings you here so late?”

Ander began, “It’s about Lucas; he suddenly had a seizure and the doctor told us to ask you about this situation, but we didn’t want to disturb you if you were asleep.

Coincidentally, we happened to pass by your house on the way to the hospital, so we wanted to come over to see if you were still awake.”

Melody nodded and said after thinking for a moment, “It’s a post-surgery complication and we need to observe him for a few more days, but it shouldn’t be too serious. I’ll go to the hospital tomorrow to perform acupuncture; combining traditional and modern medicine should help, and he’ll be fine soon.”

As the Morgan couple listened attentively, nodding occasionally like students before a teacher, this scene was particularly jarring to Yolanda and Mabel.

Chapter 303 – Good Word

At first, Russell was furious at Melody’s arrogance and lack of understanding. However, as he gradually realized that Melody had saved the Morgan family’s son, his anger began to subside, and his eyes lit up with excitement and surprise, suddenly remembering that Melody possessed medical skills.

To Russell, if Melody had indeed saved Ander’s son, it meant their family had become benefactors to the Morgan family, and this connection could potentially allow their family a foothold in the scientific research industry.

Moreover, if Melody could put in a good word for Mabel, it would be much easier for Mabel to join Ander’s research team, which was a great opportunity.

This situation would be far better than if Ander had come directly for Mabel because appreciation and gratitude were on entirely different levels.

At the thought of this, Russell seized the chance to praise Melody, “So, it was Melody who saved your son. Don’t worry, Mr. Morgan, Melody’s medical skills are exceptional, so your son will be just fine with her help.”

Despite Russell’s enthusiastic smile, Ander felt somewhat uncomfortable because Russell’s expression reminded him too much of someone he couldn’t find, Regina, whom he also disliked.

However, knowing that Russell was Melody’s father, Ander suppressed his displeasure and politely replied, “Yes, Melody’s medical skills are indeed impressive, and we trust her completely.”

Just as Russell was about to respond, Melody spoke first,” Then I’ll go over tomorrow to check on Lucas; you don’t have to worry too much. You may go see him at the hospital for a while, then head home and rest.”

Ander and Zoe nodded and bid their farewells, while Melody followed them outside, saying, “I’ll see you out.”

With her eyes reddened with jealousy, Mabel was unable to hold back so she stepped forward, blocking Ander’s path. Mr. Morgan, I have a question for you.”

Ander glanced at Mabel and was a little puzzled by why Mabel was so beautiful while Melody was quite different from Mabel.

But appearance never equated to ability for Ander, so he quickly set aside this thought and asked, “What’s your question?”

Mabel gritted her teeth and said, “If I solve the problem you set, would I be eligible to join your team?”

Ander nodded. “Of course; however, let me clarify since you’re Melody’s sister. I’ve given you all ten days to solve the problem, but so far, no student has managed to solve it within that time frame. Instead of wasting your time on solving it, you might focus on preparing your final year thesis. After graduation, my team will recruit some interns; although getting a permanent position is tough, it’s easier than solving that problem.”

Ander had an innate sense of aloofness, though he meant no harm by it as it was simply his nature. The only reason he offered this advice was out of consideration for Mabel being Melody’s sister, otherwise, he wouldn’t have bothered to say an extra word.

However, to Mabel, Ander’s words took on a different meaning, making her wonder if Ander was looking down on her and suggesting she give up because of the difficulties involved.

However, giving up was not an option for Mabel and she resolved to solve the problem, already forgetting that she couldn’t understand it and was relying on a black market forum expert for help.

Taking a deep breath, Mabel said, “Thank you for your suggestion, Mr. Morgan, but I’m confident I can solve it. However, when I successfully solve it, please don’t go back on your word and let me join your scientific research team.” “Good luck then,” Ander replied noncommittally, not taking her words seriously, only nodding to Russell and Yolanda before leaving.

At the same time, Melody had been talking to Zoe and didn’t notice what Mabel was saying to Ander.

When they reached the door, Zoe couldn’t contain her curiosity and asked, “Is your family treating you badly?”

Melody’s smile faltered and it was replaced by a bitter laugh as she questioned, “Is it that obvious?”

Feeling sorry for her, Zoe brushed Melody’s hair behind her ear and comforted, “You’re so outstanding, yet they don’t appreciate you; it’s strange.”

Melody smiled and explained, “It’s not strange as my dad remarried.”

Zoe understood immediately because a remarriage would crucially affect a child, and then she held Melody’s hand tightly. “If you don’t mind, I’ll treat you as my daughter from one on; the Morgan family will cherish you even if the Fox family doesn’t.”

Ander was also fond of Melody, adding, “We don’t have a daughter, so if you agree, we’ll be your godparents.”

Tears welled in Melody’s eyes and her voice was choked when she said, “Thank you.”

Zoe pulled Melody into her arms and patted her back gently. “Good girl, don’t catch a cold, you should go back inside as it’s too cold out here. Once Lucas recovers and is discharged from the hospital, we’ll introduce you properly to our friends while holding.”

Melody smiled and nodded, and after watching Zoe and Ander leave, she turned around and returned to the Fox residence.

As soon as she entered, she sensed that the atmosphere in the living room had changed.

Mabel looked angry, her eyes filled with resentment but also a hint of smugness, meanwhile, Yolanda wore a broad smile as she was discussing something with Russell.

Seeing Melody’s return, Yolanda greeted her with a smile, holding her arm affectionately before saying, “Melody, why didn’t you tell us that you saved Mr. Morgan’s son?”

Melody pulled her hand out of Yolanda’s hand expressionlessly and asked bluntly, “Yolanda, what are you up to now?”

Seemed to have expected her reaction, Yolanda turned around and complained to Russell. “Russell, it seems Melody doesn’t accept me as her mother.”

Russell’s brows furrowed in frustration, he was about to curse but then paused and softened his tone. “Melody, don’t think that you can disrespect Yolanda just because you’ve helped the Morgan family. She’s your mother, and that’s a fact that won’t change.”

Melody could not be bothered to reply, only saying indifferently, “It’s late; I’m going to rest.

Russell ordered, “Wait, tomorrow when you go and visit Mr. Morgan’s son, make sure to put in a good word for Mabel.” Melody chuckled in amusement and asked, “Why should I?” Russell tried his best to suppress his anger and said,” Because we’re family, you’re not attractive and have no other skills besides medicine, but Mabel is different because she has a bright future. Helping her now will help in boosting her reputation, which also ensures your future is secure. So, you must help her join Mr. Morgan’s research team.”

Chapter 304 – Sacrificing

Yolanda nodded in agreement and added, “Yes, Melody, this isn’t just about helping Mabel; it’s about helping yourself. Once Mabel marries into the Swanson family and becomes the mistress of the Swanson Group, your life will be much easier, and no one will look down on you because of your appearance anymore.”

Melody gave a cold, thin smile and said, “If I remember correctly, it was me who was originally engaged to the Swanson family, right?”

Yolanda’s face stiffened and turned ugly, she once again sought help from Russell as she was unable to directly refute Melody’s words,

Though momentarily choked, Russell quickly found his footing and spoke righteously, “Marriage should be between families of equal status. You know that our family can’t compare to the Swanson family in terms of standing; in this case, do you think they would accept you marrying into their family?”

Melody questioned, “So you just decided on your own to take my engagement and give it to Mabel?”

Russell’s face turned ashen, trying to justify his decision. Watch your words, this isn’t about taking anything from you; I’m just trying to preserve this marriage. Do you think the Swanson family’s two picky sons would have affection towards you with your unattractive face? Don’t think that just because you saved Mrs. Swanson’s life and Ken helped you a few times, he has feelings for you.”

Yolanda squeezed Russell’s hand and took two steps forward with a sincere expression, saying, “Melody, to be honest, marrying into the Swanson family isn’t entirely a good thing. Let’s consider your relationship with the Swanson family members, for instance. Astrid already dislikes you, so you might suffer some hardship if you join their family. But Mabel is different; I’ve raised her well, and Astrid can’t find fault with her. Since Mabel is willing to make such a big sacrifice for you and our family, you

Melody laughed outright. “So, Mabel isn’t taking my engagement but is helping me by sacrificing herself?” Yolanda’s face showed some discomfort, but she still nodded. “Of course, so don’t bring this up again.”

Melody smirked. “I can let it go, but you must choose between the marriage and Mr. Morgan’s matter, I will only agree to help with one.”

“You…” Yolanda suppressed her anger with effort while Mabel chimed in, “Melody, these two matters complement each other because only if I join Mr. Morgan’s team can I smoothly marry into the Swanson family. Don’t worry, once I’m married, I’ll surely compensate you.”

Melody responded, “So, you still want me to tell everyone that you took my engagement.”

Mabel clenched her fists and turned to Russell for help while Russell was also annoyed, looking at Mabel and replying, “You can just solve the question and join the research team without Melody helping in saying anything good. You’ve always been an excellent student, right?” “This…” Mabel wanted to say something but hesitated, eventually nodding. “Alright.”

“In that case, put your graduation thesis aside for now and postpone the preparation of the Best Celebrity contest since it’s still far away, and you should focus on solving Mr. Morgan’s problem first.”

Mabel nodded, feeling a deep sense of unwillingness, thinking that she could originally join Ander’s team without putting in effort if Melody helped her.

While Melody refused, Mabel found her being petty and said after taking a deep breath, “Melody, I choose the engagement. So, from today, I’m the one engaged to the Swanson family, and you can’t say otherwise, agreed?” “No problem.” Melody shrugged impatiently. “If there’s nothing else, I’ll go rest. I have to go to the hospital early tomorrow.”

With that, she didn’t give the three any time to respond and quickly walked to the backyard.

Mabel watched Melody’s departing figure, clenching her teeth as she promised not to let Melody have good days once she married into the Swanson family.

Mabel suddenly remembered that Pamela would seek revenge on Melody, thinking, ‘Why hasn’t there been any movement yet? What are the Clarks waiting for?’

Then, Mabel decided to visit Pamela the next day to find out as she couldn’t stand Melody’s arrogance anymore. Exhausted from the ordeal with the Morgan family, Russell went upstairs to rest and as soon as he left, Mabel couldn’t help but ask Yolanda, “Mom, isn’t Dad going to punish Melody?”

Yolanda tightened her grip and said, “That girl is lucky that Mr. Morgan came over; otherwise, she would have been beaten badly today. But don’t worry about that, a beating is just superficial, but what’s crucial now is about solving Mr. Morgan’s question. Do you think you can do it?”

Mabel felt a bit guilty but didn’t dare tell Yolanda that she had registered on a black market forum using her mother’s credentials and was seeking help from an expert.

While suppressing her guilt, Mabel said confidently, “It shouldn’t be a problem.”

Yolanda replied, “Good, if you can’t solve it, I’ll find someone to help. We must solve it, understand?”

Driven by vanity, Mabel’s confidence returned once the guilty conscience dissipated. “Mom, don’t worry; the problem is complex, but not unsolvable for me and I can handle it.”

Yolanda was proud of Mabel. “Alright, I believe in you. It’s very late today; go upstairs and rest first.”

Mabel asked, “What about you?”

Yolanda lowered her voice and said, “I’ll wait for the butler as I need to confirm with him that Hattie has been taken aboard the ship before I can feel at ease.”

Mabel asked, “Why didn’t you deal with her domestically?”

Yolanda replied, “Are you foolish? Ken is helping Melody now and what if he finds any clues? Solving this abroad ensures we aren’t discovered.”

Mabel nodded, finally feeling some satisfaction, cursing inwardly, “That old woman dared offend me over a dog; she deserves to be punished.”

Yolanda massaged her temples. “Enough, go rest now, and remember to wake up early to work on the problem tomorrow.”

“Got it.” With that, Mabel went upstairs and, once in her room, locked the door and logged into the black market forum on her bed.

*****

Meanwhile, in the backyard, Melody went to check on Maria, who was already asleep with only a maid taking care of her in the room.

Despite being meticulous and attentive in her work, the maid was quite indecisive, hurriedly going forward to greet Melody upon seeing her, “Miss Melody.”

After motioning for silence and quietly checking Maria’s pulse, Melody found the pulse good but still a little weak, indicating a rather slow recovery due to Maria’s age.

After that, Melody stood up and pulled the servant to the door, giving her a few instructions before returning to her room.

As soon as she returned to her room, her phone rang and showed that it was Ken calling over.

She pressed the answer button and heard Ken’s deep voice. “Is everything all right?”

Her heart suddenly beat wildly when she heard his concern.

Chapter 305 – Injured

The feeling left Melody flustered and anxious, but she tried her best to calm her chaotic thoughts and said, “I’m fine, Ander suddenly showed up and saved me. With them around, I don’t think Russell will bother me for a while.”

“Ander?” Ken asked after a brief pause.

“Yes,” Melody confirmed.

There was silence for a couple of seconds before Ken spoke again. “Isn’t that Ander after something else? Why else would he come to see you so late at night?”

Melody was speechless.”Ander came with Zoe because their son had a sudden seizure, and they were here to ask for my help. What are you thinking? Plus, he even recognized me as his goddaughter.”

“You don’t know how dark men’s hearts can be,” Ken remarked.

“As if you’re not a man yourself,” Melody retorted, rolling her eyes. “Besides, with my looks, any man interested in me must be blind.”

Ken was silent for another couple of seconds before he finally said, “Melody.”

Melody answered, “Yes?”

Ken explained, “Not all men think looks are everything.”

Melody let out a bitter laugh and asked, “Are you trying to comfort me?”

“No.” Ken’s tone was resolute.

“Alright, let’s not talk about it anymore.” Melody reminded him, “You must be tired today, go and rest quickly.”

Ken asked, “Are you worried about me?”

“Of course,” Melody replied without hesitation, then added, ” You went there because of me, so if you get exhausted, I’d feel very guilty.”

Ken chuckled softly on the other end while Melody didn’t understand what his laughter meant and was about to ask when she heard Ken suddenly gasp.

“What happened?” she asked with concern.

“I’m fine, I’ve arranged for the butler to return to the Fox family at an appropriate time so Yolanda won’t suspect anything,” Ken replied calmly, but Melody felt he was deliberately changing the subject.

Ignoring the butler topic, she pressed on. “What happened to you? Did you get hurt in the warehouse?”

Ken said teasingly, “It’s my pants zipper got stuck, do you want to come over and help me?”

Melody’s face instantly turned red as she knew exactly where a zipper could get stuck, and then she coughed awkwardly, refusing to take the bait. “Get some rest; I’ll hang up now.”

She ended the call, but her cheeks remained hot, so she opened the black market forum to distract herself.

A private message notification popped up as there was another request for her to solve problems, and since this requester had already messaged her twice, she reluctantly opened the chat.

The requester asked, [Hi, when can you complete the problems?]

Seeing that the other party was still online, she replied, [1 have a lot of things to do these few days. When I’m done, I’ll immediately help you do the questions.]

The response came almost immediately, which read, [I need this done within ten days as it’s urgent. Can you prioritize it?]

When Melody saw the reply, she suddenly recalled that Ander mentioned giving his students ten days to complete a task, wondering if this requester was one of his students. While she pondered the coincidence, another message arrived. [If you can finish earlier, I’ll pay you an extra 100 thousand dollars.]

Without further thought, Melody replied, [Okay, I’ll get it done in three days.]

The person sent an emoji of someone bowing in gratitude with a message. [Thank you.]

[You’re welcome,] Melody replied before closing the chat.

After dealing with the black market forum, Melody’s mind finally stopped racing, and she soon fell asleep from exhaustion.

Meanwhile, at Serenity Villa, Ken unbuttoned his shirt after ending the call, revealing a gunshot wound on his shoulder, blood still flowing.

He had fainted from the pain earlier but didn’t want Melody to feel guilty, so he endured the pain until now.

After assessing his injury, he found it worse than expected but not fatal, and then he dialed Susan’s number.

At the same time, Susan was chatting enthusiastically with Hattie, saying, “It’s great you have so many people around and work together in the Fox residence, it makes work easier.”

Sensing Susan’s straightforward nature, Hattie lowered her voice and asked, “Are you not having a good time here?”

Susan scratched her head and said, “Although I often feel bored, it’s not unbearable.”

Hattie hesitated before finally speaking her mind. “But there are rumors widespread in Silverlake, claiming that Mr. Ken is a devil who crippled his brother; is he that bad-tempered?”

These rumors were fed to Hattie by Maria, who disliked Ken, and it influenced Hattie’s perception even though Ken had just helped her tonight.

Susan frowned and said, “Those are just rumors; Mr. Ken is an easygoing person and has never once lost his temper with me. Once, I accidentally broke his ashtray which was worth around 200 thousand dollars, and he only told me to be careful with the shards, never asked me to pay for it.”

Hattie doubted. “Is he really that reasonable?”

Susan replied, “Of course, you work for wealthy families too, so you must know how much of the gossip is true or false.”

Hattie was now thoughtful and began to see Ken in a new light.

At that moment, Susan’s phone rang and she quickly answered after knowing that it was Ken, gesturing for silence. “Yes, sir?”

“Help me to prepare an alcohol lamp, tweezers, bandages…” Ken listed several items, and Susan noted them down.

However, because Ken wanted too many things, Susan asked for Hattie’s help to gather the supplies.

Once prepared, they knocked on Ken’s door, and when he opened it shirtless, they saw the bloody wound on his shoulder and were shocked.

Susan was so frightened that she gasped, while Hattie was more experienced and she quickly regained composure, asking, “Mr. Swanson, do you need help with the wound? I have some experience from caring for Mrs. Fox.”

Ken glanced at Hattie and said, “Yes, please come in.”

Even though Susan didn’t dare to look at the wound, she followed them into the bathroom.

As soon as they entered, Hattie sterilized the tweezers but hesitated when it came to removing the bullet, her hands shaking.

“I’ll do it myself,” Ken said, taking the tweezers before biting down on a towel and extracting the bullet with a stoic expression.

Blood flowed, staining the bathroom floor and it was a harrowing sight.

Hattie could not help but look at Ken, noticing his pale face and his forehead covered in sweat as he was in immense pain, but he didn’t utter a sound throughout the entire process.

Finally, the bullet was out, and Hattie immediately went forward to help with bandaging the wound, which she was quite experienced in.

Finally, the wound was treated and Hattie asked after breathing a sigh of relief, “Should I contact Miss Melody to prescribe for you.

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