Chapter 231

When Tim said those words, his smile didn’t waver at all. It was as if he wasn’t looking down on her or trying to marginalize her but rather discussing something as mundane as lunch plans.

He was indeed a friendly-looking villain. People like him were the hardest to deal with.

Melody narrowed her eyes coldly, raised her chin slightly, and said. What if I insist on intervening?

Tim shrugged. Then, I’m sorry. Even though you are a friend of Mr. Sherman, I would have to ask you to leave the company. After all, this concerns the future of the company, and I can’t allow anyone to disrupt the development of the new product.

Melody didn’t want to tear into Tim directly. She clenched her fists, trying to keep her tone as calm as possible. Mr. Mayer, since you know I’m Wilmot’s friend, you should understand that everything I’m doing is for the good of Icy Clear Cosmetics. I have a formula I created myself. If you trust me, I can definitely develop a product better than Golden Water.

Tim lit a cigarette with a click, blowing the smoke right into Melody’s face.

Melody waved her hand in disgust, realizing that a gentle approach wouldn’t work with this man.

Tim dropped his smile and said disdainfully, Ms. Fox, do you think I’m an idiot? What kind of formula can a young girl like you come up with? This is your last chance. Either you obediently return to your desk, or I’ll ask you to leave the company.

He emphasized the word “ask” clearly warning her.

You… Melody began, but a voice suddenly interrupted, Mr. Mayer, how dare you speak to Mr. Wilmot’s friend like that?

Mr. Mayer saw the person at the door and immediately put on a smile. Mr. Leo, you’re here? How is Mr. Wilmot’s health?

Melody instinctively turned around and saw a man who bore a striking resemblance to Wilmot walk in. He said in a calm tone, He’s still unconscious with a high fever. Then he turned his gaze to Melody, politely extending his hand. Miss Fox, I’m Leo Sherman, Wilmot’s is my brother.

Melody wasn’t sure if he was a friend or a foe, but it was hard to refuse someone who greeted her with a smile. She politely extended her hand to shake hands with Leo. Hello, I’m Melody Fox.

I’ve heard a lot about you, Ms. Fox. Mr. Mayer can be quite blunt, please don’t take it to heart.

Melody didn’t waste time on pleasantries and got straight to the point. Wilmot has entrusted me with the full responsibility of developing the new product, but Mr. Mayer is insisting that I stay out of it. I don’t understand the reasoning.

Mr. Mayer,, Leo frowned at Tim. How are you handling things? Mr. Wilmot must trust Ms. Fox’s abilities to give her such an important task. How can you prevent her from getting involved in the development of the new product?

Tim sighed and said. Mr. Leo, this matter is too critical. If a young girl like Ms, Fox gets involved, it’s not just about my approval, the entire R&D department won’t be happy. Besides, we’ve already had meetings and decided to improve the new product based on Golden Water. This is currently our best strategy. If Ms. Fox insists on getting involved, we’ll certainly lose the bet.

Leo furrowed his brows deeply, looking troubled.

He glanced between Tim and Melody before finally saying, Ms. Fox, you heard what he said. For you, this might just be a gamble, but for Icy Clear Cosmetics, it concerns our very survival. So… perhaps you should let the R&D department handle it on their own.

Melody pressed her lips together, instantly realizing that Leo wasn’t a good guy either.

It was clear they were playing good cop, bad cop, putting her in a moral bind. If she insisted on participating in the R&D department, she would seem unreasonable.

Melody’s brow slowly furrowed.

Suddenly, a glimmer of light flashed in her eyes, She looked at Leo and said, Mr. Leo, I don’t want to make things difficult for you. I can stay out of the main laboratory.

As soon as she finished speaking, she noticed a triumphant glint in Leo’s eyes.

Melody sneered internally but continued with an innocent expression. However, it’s always good to have a backup plan. If the improved Golden Water doesn’t perform well, it will be a disaster. How about this, I heard Mr. Mayer mention that you have a backup R&D lab.

Leo looked at her deeply and asked, Ms. Fox are you suggesting developing the new product on your own in the backup lab?

Exactly. This way, I won’t interfere with your Golden improvements. And we can be prepared on both fronts. Mr. Leo and Mr. Mayer, you surely want the company to succeed in the bet. I believe you wouldn’t refuse my proposal, right?

No way! Tim refused without hesitation.

Leo gave Tim a glare, then smiled at Melody and said, Ms. Fox, your proposal is good. However, our R&D department is already short-staffed and we may not be able to spare anyone to assist you. Plus, the backup lab lacks many necessary resources. It might be difficult for you to successfully develop a new product there…

It’s okay. Even if I don’t succeed, I want to give it a try. After all, I initiated the bet, and I wouldn’t feel right just sitting around and doing nothing all day, Melody replied.

A child’s mentality! Leo sneered inwardly but appeared deeply moved on the surface. Ms. Fox, your consideration is admirable. It seems Wilmot is right to trust you. Since you insist, the backup lab is yours. Mr. Mayer, please accompany Ms. Fox to the lab.

No need. Melody politely declined. It’s just a few steps away. I can go by myself and not waste Mr. Mayer’s time.

Mr. Mayer couldn’t be bothered to waste any more time on Melody. He watched as she entered the adjacent backup lab. Afterward, he lowered his voice and asked Leo in confusion. Mr. Leo, didn’t you instruct me…absolutely not to let her get involved? Why did you just hand over the backup lab to her?

Leo chuckled disdainfully. What? You don’t seriously think this girl can develop some revolutionary product, do you?

Of course not, You’ve already investigated her. She’s just an ordinary girl countryside girl. I’m just puzzled why you would let her do anything at all.

Leo looked at Tim like he was an idiot. I’ve administered medication to Wilmot that’s toxic for a week at most. After a week, if he finds, if he finds out we didn’t let Melody participate in the development, he’ll certainly become suspicious of us. So, why not go along with her wishes and let her tinker around? Although we’ve already decided to align with Silk Beauty Cosmetics, Wilmot has extensive connections. We need to be discreet to avoid him coming after us later. Understand?

Understood!

Okay, Keep an eye on that girl. Report to me immediately if there’s any movement.

Yes!

Leo raised an eyebrow confidently as he walked away.

Unbeknownst to both of them, a slender figure was hidden around the corner not far away, listening intently to their entire conversation.

Chapter 232

Around the corner, Melody bit her lip, her entire being exuding a chilling clarity.

It turned out that Wilmot wasn’t sick from stress but had been poisoned by Leo!

Damn it! She cursed inwardly.

Melody took a deep breath, forcing herself to calm down.

After a few deep breaths, she didn’t rush to see Wilmot. Instead, she turned and headed to the backup lab.

This backup lab was clearly abandoned for a long time, with a thick layer of dust covering the benches.

She glanced around the room, confirming that although it was small and the equipment outdated, most of what she needed was there. She just had to bring in a few more items and her own materials to start working.

After inspecting the backup lab, Melody stepped out and ran into Tim.

Tim put on that phony smile again and asked, pretending to care, Miss Fox, can the backup lab be used?

Without revealing any emotion, Melody replied, I checked and a lot of things are missing.

Tim clicked his tongue and said, that’s a problem. We need to prioritize our main lab equipment. I’m afraid I can’t help you here.

Don’t worry, I said I wouldn’t disrupt your progress. I’ll go out and buy the necessary items myself. No need for you to worry.

Is that so… well, that’s very considerate of you.

Melody was already fed up but maintained a polite smile. No problem, it’s what I should do. After all, I made a bet with Silk Beauty Cosmetics on an impulse.

Tim sneered inwardly. At least you know your place.

Not wanting to waste more time with Tim, Melody said, I’ll go get the supplies now. See you later.

With that, she swiftly left, leaving only her back to Tim.

Tim let out a cold snort. Go ahead, and buy as much equipment as you want. Icy Clear Cosmetics is finished, and you’re just a fool rushing to help.

Tim mocked, completely forgetting Leo’s instructions to keep a close eye on Melody. With his hands behind his back, he leisurely strolled into the main lab without sparing another glance at Melody.

Initially worried that Tim would follow her, Melody felt relieved when she saw he didn’t take her seriously. After heading downstairs, she immediately called Wilmot.

The phone rang twice before a strange voice answered.

Hello? Are you a friend of the patient? The patient just fell asleep. Please call back later.

Seeing the person on the other end about to hang up, Melody quickly asked which hospital Wilmot was in.

After getting the address and room number, Melody rushed to Central Hospital by taxi.

On the other side, in a hotel suite, Janet woke up from a satisfying sleep. The first thing she did was look for Ken, who had slept beside her.

However, the bed was empty, and she panicked, fearing that all her efforts to keep him had failed.

Janet hurriedly got out of bed and searched the suite. She finally found Ken in another room.

Seeing him still there, she felt a wave of relief and a happy smile spread across her face.

She wished this moment could last forever.

Just then, Ken’s eyelashes fluttered.

Janet’s heart skipped a beat. She quietly slipped back to the bedroom and pretended to be asleep.

When Ken got up to wash up and entered the doorway, she feigned a splitting headache, struggling to sit up in the bed, and asked in surprise, Ken? What are you doing here?

You got drunk last night, James and I brought you back from Leit Bar, Ken replied succinctly, coming to her bedside and asking, Are you still feeling unwell?

My head hurts… Janet frowned in pain. It feels like it’s going to explode.

Not wanting to part from Ken just yet, she hesitated before weakly asking, I feel terrible. Can you take me to the hospital?

Ken hesitated for a moment but eventually nodded. Alright, freshen up first, I’ll wait for you downstairs.

Okay! Janet gave a weak smile and struggled to get up from the floor.

Need any help?

No, I can manage.

As soon as she finished speaking, she stumbled and fell forward.

Ken reacted quickly, catching her. Janet leaned into his arms, inhaling his unique, crisp sandalwood scent.

Janet greedily took a deep breath, trying hard to imprint that scent into her memory.

But in the next moment, Ken stepped back, and the sandalwood scent instantly faded from her reach.

Ken steadied her with one hand and called James, who was waiting outside.

She’s not feeling well. Get a female attendant to help. Ken instructed.

Janet bit her lip, a hint of frustration and discomfort showing in her eyes.

He couldn’t accept her closeness.

Janet tightened her grip on her hands. I’m fine, no need to call anyone. I can manage on my own.

Ken frowned slightly. I’ll call a female attendant to assist you with washing up, so that you won’t fall again.

Really, there’s no need. I just had a bit too much to drink. It’s nothing serious. It would be too much trouble to call someone over, and they might think I’m being dramatic.

No one would think you’re being dramatic. Ken didn’t say more, leaving her in the bed before leaving the suite.

Watching Ken’s retreating figure, Janet felt a sense of loneliness in her eyes.

She was fine, really. She just appreciated Ken’s concern for her.

But obviously, Ken was only caring for her as a friend.

Yet that was enough to make her feel happy.

Janet wasn’t greedy. She didn’t expect Ken to fall for her right away, only hoping he would gradually realize that she was the most compatible person with him in the world.

As for Melody… Janet had been too impatient, almost losing everything.

But now, she had come to her senses. No matter how Melody struggled, Ken’s feelings for her would surely remain those of a friend.

If Janet constantly targeted Melody, she would only make Ken protect her more, thus alienating her.

Janet could not go back to the way she was before. She had to calm down, and then find the best time to strike back.

Soon, Janet was taken care of by the female attendant and was able to finish her wash.

When she went downstairs, she found Ken had thoughtfully prepared breakfast for her.

It consisted of light fare, obviously what Ken had ordered specifically for her.

Janet ate contentedly and then left, taking a seat in Ken’s car.

Mr. Swanson, which hospital? James asked from the driver’s seat, turning his head. Ken thought for a moment and said Central Hospital.

On the way, James couldn’t help but comment: Miss Murphy, Mr. Swasnson mentioned that once you’ve recovered, you should return to work. The launch of the new product depends on you. You should avoid places like bars in the future.

Hearing this, Janet feigned surprise and looked at Ken, asking, Ken, really? You’re not sending me away?

Yes! Ken nodded slightly.

Thank you, Ken! anet expressed her gratitude excitedly, then lowered her gaze and said, What I did to Miss Fox was wrong, and I deeply regret it. I promise I won’t do anything like that again.

Her explanation was filled with remorse.

Ken responded, It’s good that you realize your mistake. Melody isn’t a bad person. I hope you two can get along well in the future.

Janet clenched her fists secretly but cheerfully agreed. Yes, I will get along with her.

About twenty minutes later, Janet got out of the car and immediately saw a familiar figure stepping out of a taxi infront of them.

Isn’t that Melody? She wondered.

Chapter 233

Janet glaned at Ken, who had his back turned while on the phone. With a quick flick of thought, she stepped forward to greet Melody. Hi, Miss Fox.

Hearing the voice, Melody turned and saw Janet approaching, a shadow crossing her eyes.

Miss Fox, Janet repeated, walking up a few steps and asking with concern. What brings you to the hospital? Are you feeling unwell?

No, Melody replied expressionlessly. I’m here to visit a friend.

Glad to hear that you’re not sick, Janet said appearing relieved and lowering her voice slightly. Ken talked to me a lot yesterday. I realized I was a bit excessive before. I didn’t know you well back then, and I was worried you were with Ulric. That’s why I kept targeting you. But that won’t happen anymore. I sincerely apologize. Let’s put the past behind us, okay?

As she spoke, Janet reached out and took Melody’s hand in a friendly gesture.

Melody instinctively pulled her hand away, baffled by Janet’s sudden change in demeanor.

Given her knowledge of Janet from a previous life, she knew this sudden friendliness couldn’t be genuine.

Melody frowned and asked warily, What do you mean by this?

Tears quickly welled up in Janet’s eyes. Miss Fox, you still won’t forgive me?

Before Melody could respond, Janet continued with teary eyes, Just tell me. What will it take for you to forgive me? Do I need to kneel before you again? If that’s what you want, I’m willing to kneel.

With taht Janet bent her knees and actually began to kneel infront of Melody.

Melody’s frown deepened. Miss Murphy, what act are you putting on now?

What’s going on here? A deep voice suddenly interrupted.

Both Melody and Janet instinctively looked in the direction of the voice.

Ken had walked over at some point.

Janet was secretly pleased, but she kept her head down, her posture submissive as she spoke first. Miss Fox won’t forgive me. So I hope to clear up any misunderstandings between us this way.

Hearing this, Ken looked up at Melody.

A surge of inexplicable anger rose within Melody as she glared coldly at Ken. I didn’t make her kneel. She choose to do that herself and Miss Murphy, I don’t think there’s any misunderstanding between us. You don’t need to put on this act. I have things to do and no time to waste here.

With that, she turned away from them without another glance and strode into the hospital.

Melody! Ken’s voice called out from behind, but Melody didn’t stop. Instead, she quickened her pace.

She felt a pang of sadness, making her nose tingle with the urge to cry.

Melody sniffed hard, berating herself for being so weak.

Janet’s pretense was nothing new. It didn’t affect her in any way, so why did it hurt?

She didn’t understand what was wrong with her, only that Ken’s one look had inexplicably stirred her long-dormant heart.

She didn’t like this feeling and didn’t want to feel it again.

Melody shook her head forcefully, trying to clear her mind of those emotions, and headed toward the inpatient department.

Meanwhile, Ken saw Melody walking away and was about to chase after her when he heard James voice behind him. Miss Murphy, what’s wrong?

Ken paused, glancing at Melody’s retreating figure before turning to look at Janet.

James was frantically holding up Janet, who had fainted.

Ken frowned, taking one last look in Melody’s direction before walking beside Janet.

Mr. Swanson, Miss Murphy…

To the emergency department, Ken ordered, crouching down and gesturing for James to help lift Janet onto his back. He then ran toward the emergency room.

James quickly followed but heard Ken instructing, I can handle this. Go check on Melody.

Miss Fox? James was annoyed. Janet has fainted, yet Melody is perfectly healthy. Why should I check on her? He wondered.

But James didn’t dare to defy Ken. Reluctantly, he agreed and went after Melody.

Neither noticed the slight, cold smile on Janet’s lips as she was carried on Ken’s back.

Ken soon arrived at the emergency department.

After examining Janet, the doctor sighed in relief. This patient is fine, just a bit of low blood sugar. I’ll start an IV drip for her and she’ll be fine.

Are you sure? Ken asked.

Janet stirred weakly on the hospital bed, her voice hoarse. What happened to me.

Ken walked over and explained, you fainted. The doctor said it’s low blood sugar. They’ll start an IV drip for you soon.

Janet nodded weakly, allowing the nurse to administer the IV drip. I feel dizzy and really sleepy. Can you watch the drip for me? I’m afraid I won’t even notice when it’s done.

Ken hesitated for a moment before nodding. Sure, you rest. I’ll keep an eye on it.

Okay! Janet’s eyes briefly flashed with a hint of satisfaction before it vanished.

Meanwhile, on the other side, Melody finally found Wilmot’s hospital room, only to be blocked by two bodyguards stated firmly.

I’m Wilmot’s friend, here to visit him, Melody explained.

The bodyguards impatiently responded, without Mr. Leo’s orders, no one gets in.

Melody’s eyes darkened, Mr. Leo?

The bodyguards didn’t respond verbally, but their silence confirmed it.

Melody’s gaze turned icy.

She hadn’t expected Leo to station bodyguards here. It was practically imprisonment.

It was clear that Wilmot must be in a dire situation inside.

Melody narrowed her eyes coldly. What if I insist on going in?

The bodyguards exchanged glances, then looked at Melody up ad down, their tone turning hostile and disdainful as they warned. If you insist on forcing your way in, we won’t hesitate to put you in that hospital bed too.

It was a clear threat.

Melody clenched her fists instantly, a cold smirk curling her lips. Why don’t you give it a try?

The bodyguard sneered. Ugly woman, do you really want us to throw you out by force?

What’s the point of wasting words on this hag? Don’t you feel disgusted? Another bodyguard took a sip, reaching out to grab Melody’s collar.

However, just as the bodyguard was about to touch Melody’s collar, Melody delivered a swift punch to the man’s chest.

In the next moment, the bodyguard’s large frame instantly hunched over, slowly collapsing against the wall, clutching his chest in pain and unable to make a sound. Melody rotated her fist, looking at the other bodyguard who was in shock, and said coldly, I’ve been working a lot lately and I’ve regained some of my skills. It’s just the right time to practice on you two. I don’t bully you, you go first.

The bodyguard was still in shock.

His partner was actually knocked down by a seemingly weak girl with once punch.

I must be dreaming! He wondered.

He finally snapped out of his shock and angrily threw a punch at Melody, shouting, hag, you’re asking for it.

Chapter 234

Melody pursed her lips coldly, Just as she was about to retaliate, a figure quickly appeared and caught the other party’s fist.

In the next second, there was a click. The man immediately screamed, causing the nurse’s desk to run over to check on him.

Melody look at James, who was standing infront of her, she asked in confusion. Why are you here?

James pursed his lips and said. Mr. Ken asked me to come. I didn’t expect you to cause trouble here for real.

Could it be that Mr. Ken can see through thousands of miles? Otherwise, why would he ask me to come here to take a look? James wondered.

However, Melody misunderstood James’s words. She frowned and asked, Ken said I will cause trouble?

James did not answer this, he said, if you want to do something, go quickly. Miss Murphy has fainted. After dealing with your matters here, I still have to go back and take a look.

At the mention of Janet, Melody’s expression darkened.

However, she quickly suppressed her emotions and looked around. She said in a low voice, my friend has been imprisoned and poisoned, so help me keep an eye on everyone. Don’t let them have the chance to tip their people off.

Imprisoned? James finally realized the seriousness of the matter. After nodding, he quickly called for more bodyguards to surround the floor.

Not to mention news, even mosquitoes could not fly out.

The two bodyguards who were trussed up were in a daze.

Who is that ugly freak? She caused such a huge commotion. However, they couldn’t ask questions because James stuffed two rags into their mouths.

After setting the matter, James did not forget to call Ken to inform him of the situation.

On the bed in the emergency room, Janet was pretending to be asleep with her eyes closed when she heard Ken’s phone ring once before it was quickly picked up.

Is she alright? Ken’s voice was filled with concern, making Janet grit her teeth.

She didn’t want Ken’s concern to be shared with anyone but herself.

However, she knew that all she could do now was to disguise her true emotions and make Ken trust her again, just like before.

Therefore, Janet continued to close her eyes and pretend to be asleep.

James’s voice came from the other end of the phone. Miss Fox said that her friend was imprisoned in the hospital. We just fought with the two bodyguards guarding the door.

Ken suddenly sounded nervous. She’s not hurt, is she?

No, I saw Miss Fox knock down one of the bodyguards with a punch. I took care of the other one. I’m sealing off this floor to prevent the news from leaking, said James.

Okay, then stay there. I’ll go over in a while. After saying that, Ken hang up and waved at a doctor.

The doctor had long known Ken’s identity. He quickly went forward and asked politely. Mr. Swanson, do you have any instructions?

Help me find someone to guard her. I have something urgent to deal with. Call me if anything happens. This is my business card. Ken handed his business card to the doctor and walked out.

Janet subconsciously wanted to open her eyes, but endured it and continued to pretend to be asleep.

I can’t be anxious. I can’t be hasty. Otherwise, I’ll repeat the same mistake. with that thought in mind, Janet gritted her teeth and asked herself to calm down.

In the ward.

Melody smelled a strange fragrance when she entered and subconsciously held her breath.

Ever since she was youg, she had followed Quentin and tasted all kinds of herbs. She immediately determined this was the smell of the Tojafrass Aroma.

Before she could find the place to place the Tojafrass Aroma, James pushed the door open and entered. Miss Fox, your friend…

Get out! Melody pinched her nose and ordered sternly.

James stopped in his tracks and looked a little displeased. Miss Fox, I’m here to help. What kind of attitude is that?

Melody couldn’t care less, She pushed James and the two of them left the ward together.

Miss Fox, you… James was angry and confused.

There’s poison gas inside. Melody lowered her voice and said, go and find a gas mask. Be quick.

With that, she held her breath and entered the ward again.

James looked at Melody’s hurried back and finally understood why Melody asked him to come out. He eased his expression and quickly arranged for his subbordinates to look for the gas masks.

Soon, the gas masks were found… James entered with the mask on. The window in the ward was wide open. Melody was stepping on a chair and stretching out her hand to move the panel of the central air conditioner.

James quickly handed the gas mask to Melody, Melody put it on before continuing to fiddle with the panel.

Soon, she took out a mini incense burner from the interface.

She jumped off the chair and reached her fingers into the incense burner.

After confirming that it was Tojafrass Aroma, she casually threw the incense burner into the toilet bowl in the bathroom.

After she was done, she heaved a sigh of relief and explained to James. The incense burner contains Tojafrass Aroma.

Tojafrass Aroma? What is that? James asked.

Melody checked the pulse of unconscious Wilmot on the bed and said. Tojafrass Aroma is a kind of poison. After igniting it, the smell will be light and cause people to faint. In serious cases, it will cause people to have a high fever. However, the effect of the Tojafrass Aroma can only last for 7 days, and the human body will slowly develop antibodies to this poison. At that time, they will naturally wake up.

James nodded thoughtfully. He looked at Wilmot on the bed and said, does that mean we don’t need to treat him? Anyway, he will recover in seven days.

Melody shook her head. The real scary thing about Tojafrass Aroma is it’s side effects. Even if a person wakes up in 7 days, their intelligence and stamina will not be as good as before. If the dosage is heavy, a person might even become demented.

James was shocked. He said with a pale face, Miss Fox, I smelled that smell when I entered just now. Will I become demented too?

To him, becoming demented was worse than death.

Melody said comfortingly, don’t worry, I asked you to get out in time. The dosage you smell is almost negligible. You won’t become even more stupid than now.

That’s good. James heaved a sigh of relief. Then, he suddenly realized something, Miss Fox, were you scolding me just now?

Melody did not answer James’s question. She changed the topic and said. Wilmot inhaled too much Tojafrass Aroma. I need to help him detoxify the poison. Prepare a set of silver needles for me. I remember that the traditional medicine department of the Central Hospital sells them. Also, I’ll send you a prescription on the phone. Go to the traditional medicine department and help me get the medicine.

Alright, I’ll go now. James did not want to stay in the ward. Even though he was wearing a gas mask, he still had lingering fears, so he quickly left the room.

Melody quickly prescribed it on her phone and sent it to James. Then, she fell into deep thought.

Quentin was the one who developed the Tojafrass Aroma, However, Quentin had told her that when he knew the Tojafrass Aroma could cause serious sequelae, he destroyed the formula through various channels.

But why is there such a thing now? Melody couldn’t help but wonder, where did Leo get the Tojafrass Aroma?

For some reason, she vaguely felt that this matter seemed to have something to do with Quentin.

Quentin had always been an omnipotent existence. He had taught her countless skills. However, she knew very little about Quentin, she only knew that Quentin did not want anyone to know about his existence.

If the appearance oft the Tojafrass Aroma will affect Mr. Parker, I have to investigate this matter thoroughly. Melody had a terrible feeling in her heart. It was as if a huge rock was pressing down on her heart. She would not be able to ease until she solved this mystery.

Melody’s brows were tightly knitted together, and her heart was filled with worries. At this moment, the door of the ward was pushed open.

Chapter 235

What happened? Melody asked. She thought that James had returned. Then, she looked up to meet Ken’s dark eyes.

The moment their eyes met, Melody was the first to look away.

At this moment, the smell of the Tojafrass Aroma was almost gone. Melody took off her gas mask, frowned, and asked, Mr. Swanson, what brings you here? Is Miss Murphy fine? Or do you want me to explain why she suddenly knelt to me?

His tone involuntarily carried a hint of self-mockery.

Ken keenly sensed that Melody was in a bad mood.

He took a few steps forward and glanced at Wimot on the bed. Instead of answering Melody’s question, he said, so the person imprisoned is Wilmot. Who did this?

Melody opened her mouth, However, she did not flare up because of her emotions. She took a deep breath and tried to calm down before saying, Leo, Vice Chairman of Icy Clear Cosmetics, Wilmot’s biological brother.

Ken nodded slightly and asked, Other than blocking the news, is there anything else I can help you with?

No, Melody rejected immediately.

Then, two seconds later, she paused and added not for now.

Okay, Ken replied. He wanted to say something but hesitated. After a while, he spoke again. I didn’t think it was your fault when she knelt to you. I know you’re not the kind of person who bullies others. It’s just that I hope you can resolve the misunderstanding with Janet. I believe she won’t do anything in the future. She should have talked to you today. Let the past be in the past.

Are you saying the word misunderstanding? Melody was amused. I can’t be bothered to tell you what happened in the Lawrence family. Let’s talk about the post online. Do you think that it was a misunderstanding?

Ken was slightly stunned. You know? Melody remained silent.

Ken asked again, when did this happen?

Melody had not thought it through before she said that just now. Now that she said this, she regretted it.

However, she couldn’t take it back since she had said so. So, Melody replied directly. That day, I heard you talking to James in the room.

Ken opened his lips and said, Sorry. You don’t have to apologize. I understand. Janet was the person who founded Ximber Tech with you. I understand why you’re hiding it from me and don’t want me to have more conflict with her. But please understand me. I can’t easily forget what happened before, so please don’t say words like let the past be in the past again.

Melody’s expression was so cold that Ken felt as if there was an invisible wall between them.

Ken opened his mouth and wanted to say something, but James happened to come back with something.

Miss Fox, here are the silver needles you asked for. It will take another half an hour for the traditional medicine to arrive. Oh, Mr. Ken? When did you come? James was surprised to see Ken. Then, he asks, how is Miss Murphy?

Ken looks displeased. His gaze fell on the gas mask on James’s face. Instead of answering, he asked. What are you wearing?

He remembered that Melody was also wearing it just now. He could not help but feel puzzled.

James quickly told him about the Tojafrass Aroma. Then, he lifted the item in his hand and said. Miss Fox asked me to take this to detoxify Mr. Sherman.

Ken nodded. At this moment, his phone rang. It was an unknown number.

He pressed the answer button and heard the person on the other end say, Mr. Swanson, I’m from the emergency room. Miss Murphy suddenly vomited just now… We wanted her to do a full body checkup, but she refused, so I could only call and ask for your permission.

I understand. I’ll be right there. Ken said to the person on the other end. Just as he was about to talk to Melody, Melody spoke first. Mr. Swanson, since you have something to do, go ahead. I’m going to detoxify Wilmot. It’s not convenient for too many irrelevant people to be present.

Irrelevant people… Ken frowned. I…

As soon as he said that, the doctor’s anxious voice sounded from the other end of the phone. Mr. Swanson, you have to come over quickly. The patient had painted again.

The matter was urgent. Kend said okay and hung up the phone. He looked at Melody deeply and said, when you and I are done with this, let’s find a time to talk. I have something important to tell you.

Melody subconsciously wanted to say, there’s nothing to talk about between us. However, she could not bring herself to say it for some reason.

In the end, she gave up and stopped looking at Ken. She reached out to take the silver needles from James’s hand and instructed him, to help me take off his shirt.

When Ken who had already walked to the door heard this, a deep light flashed across his eyes.

He paused for two seconds before striding out of the ward.

Guard this place well and don’t let anything go wrong. Also, send someone to monitor Leo from Icy Clear Cosmetics, Ken instructed.

Got it.

After instructing his subordinates, Ken walked toward the emergency room.

In the ward.

Wilmot was still unconcious. Melody opened Wilmot’s eyelids and looked at his tongue. She heaves a sigh of relief.

James observed the expression on Melody’s face and asked curiously.

Will this guy become demented?

No, although Wilmot inhaled a lot, we found him in time. Once I apply acupunture to detoxify him, he’ll recover quickly. Melody replied.

James nodded as if he understood. Melody opened the silver needles that was one inch long. Then, without any hesitation, she inserted it into Wilmot.

James was fearless, however, he was most afraid of injections. when he saw this scene he subconsciously closed his eyes.

After a while, when he opened his eyes again, he saw that Wilmot had already turned into a hedgehog. His entire body was covered in silver needles, looking scary.

However, what was even more terrifying was that the silver needles slowly turned black.

He’s indeed poisoned… James mumbled.

Melody had said it so mysteriously, but he was skeptical.

Now that he saw the silver needles turn black with his eyes, he was finally sure that Tojafrass Aroma was poisonous.

He could not help but feel a lingering fear. Fortunately, Melody chased me out at that time. Otherwise, I would have become a hedgehog.

At this moment, the unconscious Wilmot suddenly moves his finger.

Melody hurriedly went forward. Wilmot, can you hear me? How are you feeling now?

Wilmot slowly opened his eyes and saw Melody’s face. His nose was filled with the smell of disinfectant.

He said in surprise. Where… am I?

Hospital, Melody answered as she checked Wilmot’s pulse.

His pulse was no longer as smooth and weak as before teh acupuncture. It gradually became stronger.

This was a sign that the poison had been mostly detoxified.

Why am I in the hospital? Wilmot’s mind was filled with endless questions.

Melody looked at James and said, James, help me see if the traditional medicine is ready.

Alright. James did not say anything else and quickly left with the joy of surviving the calamity.

As soon as James left, Wilmot asked in confusion. Who is he? What happened to me? I… After a few words, Wilmot started coughing violently.

Prev | Next 

Chapter 226

Russell was originally in a good mood, but when he heard Yolanda and Mabel echoing each other, he slowly frowned, and there was suppressed anger in his eyes. “Would both of you rather trust an outsider than Melody! Although Melody came back from the countryside, you’ve seen it during this period of time. Her upbringing and temper have all inherited my merits. She’s not someone who doesn’t know her limits!”

When Mabel heard that Russell was biased towards Melody, she was immediately enraged. She did not care about Yolanda’s instructions and said. “Dad, it’s not that I don’t believe Melody, but I’ve already called Mr. Clark. He personally told me that Melody was the one who detained Pamela. The Clark family has ordered a lot of things from our company, What if Mr. Clark vents his anger on the company? Mom and I are worried about our family’s future.”

Russell was furious. He reached out and slapped Mabel. He felt that his dignity as the head of the family had been challenged. “According to you. the Justalion Group can’t do without the Clark family? Am I so useless in your eyes?”

Mabel was hit so hard that her entire body tilted to the side. She looked at Russell in disbelief as tears streamed down her face.

Yolanda’s heart ached. As she rubbed Mabel’s face, she said, “Russell, why did you hit her for no reason? You know that she admires you the most in her heart. How can she think that you’re useless? This matter has really blown up. We’re all afraid that Melody will harm our company.

Only then did Russell’s anger dissipate a little, but his tone was still cold. “Don’t worry, Melody won’t harm our family.

This time, Yolanda couldn’t hold it in anymore. She said, “Russell. I know your heart aches for Melody, but you can’t spoil the child too much. She caused more trouble this time than before. If you don’t teach her a lesson, it will be even worse in the future. By then, it will be too late!”

Russell’s anger, which had been suppressed with great difficulty, was aroused again. “What’s wrong! You and your daughter can’t tolerate a little girl from the countryside?”

Yolanda’s eyes were filled with surprise.

Russell continued angrily. “Mabel, you’ve been spoiled by your mother since you were young. You can get whatever you want, but what about Melody? I was afraid that your mother wouldn’t get along with her, so I sent her to the countryside when she was only a child. I pity her for being so young and growing up alone in the countryside. It’s not easy for her to finally come back now. It’s fine if you don’t treat her well, but you want me to teach her a lesson all the time. Why are you so petty? If I hear you say anything bad about her in the future, don’t blame me for punishing you!”

The more Russell spoke, the angrier he became.

He was not a fool. During this period of time, he had seen how Yolanda and Mabel treated Melody. It was just that he did not take it to heart in the past. However, this did not mean that he was blind. Now, after Ken’s reminder, he deeply felt that as a father, he was really a failure. If he continued to let Yolanda and Mabel go on like this, something would happen sooner or later. Therefore, he had to teach them a lesson.

Russell took a deep breath and said coldly to Yolanda, “I’ll sleep alone tonight. You sleep in the guest room! Get the servants to send the food to my room. I don’t want to see you guys again today.”

With that, he got up and walked upstairs, leaving Yolanda and Mabel with a cold back view.

Mabel’s eyes were filled with tears. She was extremely flustered. She pulled Yolanda’s sleeve and asked, “Mom, what happened today? Why is he so biased towards Melody, that wretched girl? Could it be that he cares more about Melody now and not me?

Yolanda also wanted to know the reason. If it was in the past, Russell would become angry and want to catch Melody and beat her up.

She didn’t know what was going on that day.

After thinking about it, Yolanda said. “Don’t worry, you don’t know your father well enough. He just likes to talk pompously and suddenly wants to establish the image of a good father. Once his interests are involved, he will immediately forget everything he said today.”

Mabel asked, “But why didn’t he believe a word we said today?”

Yolanda smiled coldly and said, “It must be because Troy is busy fishing Pamela out and doesn’t have time to deal with the Justalion Group and Melody. When Troy is done with Pamela, your father will naturally know that what we said today is for his own good.”

Mabel held her painful cheek and asked, “Then what should we do now?”

“Wait” Yolanda narrowed her eyes and said, “When Troy is done with his work and comes back to find trouble with Melody, we will need to do a lot of things by then. Your father will naturally teach her a lesson. The trouble she caused this time is different from before. It directly affects your father’s interests. Your father might be so angry that he will directly kick Melody out.”

When Mabel heard this, she felt a little better. Even her face did not seem to hurt as much.

However, when she thought of Russell’s expression and tone just now, she still felt a little uneasy. She felt like she was about to fall out of favor.

However, there was really nothing she could do now. The only thing she could do was wait for Troy to cause trouble.

Yolanda thought of Pamela and said, “Go and visit Pamela tomorrow morning. Although Troy’s attack on Melody is a good thing for us, we can’t really lose our source of income. You have to build a good relationship with Pamela. When the time comes, she will naturally remind her father to be careful with dealing with our company.”

“Alright!” Mabel immediately agreed.

At Leit Bar, Janet waited for a while and finally received the news. “Someone’s here. He said he’s looking for you”

Janet nodded and gave the man a look. Then, she pretended to be drunk.

The man immediately understood and grabbed Janet’s collar. “Looks like your family won’t come. In that case, since you’re quite good–looking. compensate my clothes with your body!”

As the man spoke, he leaned over and pressed himself against Janet.

His voice and movements were very loud and even in the noisy bar, it was very eye-catching.

The man’s acting skills were extraordinary. He chuckled and said, “Liule girl, your figure is not bad! If you are with me, I will definitely not treat you badly!”

With that, he boldly reached for Janet’s waist and slowly slid his hand up.

In the nick of time, a low shout rang out “Stop!”

Before the man could react, he was forcefully pulled away by a large hand and thrown more than six feet away.

When Janet heard the commotion, her eyelids trembled slightly, She did not open her eyes, but she knew that it must be Ken.

She thought, The timing is just right! God is really helping me.

In the next second, she felt the world spin as she was picked up horizontally.

The smell of male hormones spread to the tip of her nose.

Janet’s heart instantly raced.

She had never been so close to Ken to be able to smell his scent.

At the thought of this, Janet could not help but take a deep breath greedily and bury her face in the man’s chest

Chapter 227

Those who did not know better would think that the two of them were a couple in love.

Janet was completely immersed in happiness. She was very satisfied with everything she had arranged.

Although this move was really cliché, the results showed that it was the most useful.

Janet secretly decided that she would completely take down Ken tonight and finish what she started.

She knew that Ken was actually a very responsible person. Once he had slept with her, he would definitely take responsibility for her.

However, in the next moment, a familiar voice came from above. The person holding her said with concern, “Miss Murphy, are you alright?”

Janet’s originally soft body instantly stiffened, and a stunned expression appeared on her face.

She thought. Isn’t this… James? Did I hear wrongly?”

For a moment, Janet did not care that she was pretending to be drunk. She suddenly opened her eyes and looked at the face of the person carrying her.

The lights of the bar were dim, but James’s face was only inches away. She saw him immediately.

The person who came was actually James.

At this moment, it was as if Janet had been struck by lightning. All her happiness and expectations were instantly shattered.

At the same time, her rationality shattered along with the happiness she had just imagined.

“Miss Murphy, you’re awake?” James heaved a sigh of relief when he saw her open her eyes. He said, “I’ve already gotten someone to beat up the guy who was harassing you. You’re fine now, don’t be afraid.”

Janet finally came back to her senses. She quickly held her forehead and pretended to be dizzy while maintaining a distance from James.

“Miss Murphy, do you feel dizzy?” James’s eyes were filled with concern.

Janet clenched her fists tightly. Her heart was filled with confusion and hatred.

She had already encountered such a terrifying danger, but Ken did not come personally. Instead, he sent James. She wondered if she was really not important to him at all…

She thought, ‘If the person who encountered such a situation today was Melody, would he send James or come personally?

Janet did not know the answer, but the anger in her heart burned brighter and brighter. She blamed everything on Melody.

If it weren’t for Melody, she wouldn’t have to lower herself to do such a thing to earn Ken’s concern.

Thinking of this, Janet secretly decided that she must get Ken to come over today.

She deliberately retched and stubbornly waved her hand. “I’m fine. Go. I want to be alone for a while.”

James could not help but feel even more worried. “Miss Murphy, you can’t be like this. I’m worried about you staying here alone. Bars are filled with all kinds of people. You should come with me.”

“I don’t want to!” Janet looked away with tears in her eyes. “Een doesn’t need me anymore. Even if something happens to me, he won’t be worried at all. Don’t worry about me. Let me fend for myself.”

As she spoke, she picked up the wine on the table and was about to pour it into her mouth.

“Miss Murphy!” James quickly went forward and grabbed the bottle of wine. “Don’t be like this. How can Mr. Ken not need you? How many products of Ximber Tech were developed by you? Mr. Ken is just angry right now. He is angry that you didn’t tell him before you did anything.”

Janet shook her head as tears streamed down her face. “You’re wrong. James. He really doesn’t care about me. If he cared about me, he wouldn’t have let you come. Maybe if I die here tonight, it will be good for him. Yes… If he doesn’t care about me anymore, why am I still alive?”

As soon as she finished speaking. Janet crashed into a corner of the table.

James was scared out of his wits. He quickly rushed forward to stop Janet. “Miss Murphy, don’t do anything stupid! If Mr. Ken really doesn’t care about you, he wouldn’t have informed me to come and save you just wait, I’ll call Mr. Ken now!”

As James spoke, he pulled Janet with one hand and dialed Ken’s number with the other.

Seeing this, Janet’s lips secretly curled into an imperceptible arc.

At Serenity Villa, after finishing the bowl of spaghetti, Melody did not stay idle and started discussing Zack’s matter with Ken.

Melody said. “The current Ximber Tech can’t be compared to Mont Technology for the time being. We won’t know until your series of products is introduced. Zack will have a better future if he jumps over to Ximber Tech. But Zack wanted to talk to me in a week, so I need to know if I can reveal to Zack about Ximber Tech’s products.

Ken said calmly. “Sure. If he’s willing, you can bring him to the company to experience it. However, there’s one thing. You can’t reveal my identity. From what I know, Ulric has noticed his ability. If he chooses Ulric in the end, he might reveal my identity”

Melody hurriedly nodded. “I know that. If not for that, you could have come forward and poached him yourself. Your name carries more significance than Ximber Tech.

Ken slowly glanced at her, his gaze noncommittal.

Melody continued, “Then I’ll focus on the company’s competitiveness and future prospects to attract him to jump ship.”

Ken suddenly asked, “Do you know anything about Mont Technology which he is currently employed in?”

Melody was stunned for a moment before nodding. “1 understand, but Mont Technology started by making lamps. More than ten years ago, Mont Technology was the first company to switch from making straight and curved tubes to making energy-saving lamps. They relied on this to make a lot of money before switching to smart technology furniture products.”

Ken raised his eyebrows and continued to ask, “What else?”

Melody asked in confusion, Is there anything else I need to know?”

Ken said indifferently, “Mont Technology did start out as a light fixture, but until now, it’s still a family workshop. The higher-ups of the company are all members of the Mont family. They all have different amounts of power in the company.”

Melody’s eyelids twitched twice, and her eyes instantly lit up. “What you mean is that although Zack has helped Mont Technology improve because almost every higher-up is a member of the Mont family, his career there is not easy. If the higher-ups don’t actively respond to a policy, it won’t be easy to implement it. As for those relatives of the Month family, all of them can’t know how this industry works. It’s probably extremely difficult for Zack to communicate with them. They might even think that Zack is useless.”

The more Melody spoke, the more excited she became. In the end, she stood up and bowed to Ken. “Thank you. I’ve roughly decided how to talk to Zack.

Ken glanced at her calmly. “I thought you should have known this long ago

Although be said that, there was a hint of admiration in the depths of his eyes.

Melody was always very quick-witted and could learn something new after being given a little push.

Melody did not notice the admiration in Ken’s eyes. She scratched her head apologetically and said, “I’m sorry. I was too focused on investigating Zack Nelson. I really don’t know much about Mont Technology.

In her previous life, she had relied on Ulric and cured Ford’s illness to successfully poach Zack. She did not know much about Mont Technology.

Now that she thought about it, she was indeed not meticulous enough.

What Melody did not know was that her sincere apology made Ken’s eyes darken.

At this moment, Susan walked forward and said with a meaningful smile, “Miss Fox, I’ve prepared your toiletries. It’s getting late. Are the two of you going to rest?”

Chapter 228

Melody looked at the time and said. “It’s past eleven o’clock. It’s indeed getting late. I have to go to Icy Clear Cosmetics early tomorrow morning. I’ll go and rest.

“You’re really concerned about Wilmot’s matter.” Ken sneered at her.

Melody asked in confusion. You don’t seem to like Wilmot very much?”

Ken asked, “Is he money! Does everyone have to like him?”

Melody pursed her lips and did not say anything else. She walked towards the guest room that Shane had slept in previously.

However, Susan stopped her. “Miss Fox, you’re going to the wrong room. The room arranged for you to sleep in is upstairs.

Susan pointed in the direction of Ken’s room on the second floor and said, “Because the little kid wet the bed, I removed the mattress and so on in the guest bedroom on the first floor. The new one can only be sent over tomorrow.”

Melody frowned. “What about the other guest rooms!”

Susan rubbed her hands and said with a smile, “You’re the only guest in the house. There aren’t that many guest rooms at all, so you can sleep with Mr. Ken tonight”

“What?” Melody’s eyelids twitched “Susan, are you kidding me?”

Susan pretended to yawn and said, “It’s late. I’m old and should go and rest. Miss Fox, I wish you a good night’s sleep with Mr. Ken. I’m going to sleep first.”

As Susan spoke, she left very quickly. She showed the speed that people of her age really had. She disappeared instantly.

Melody looked at Ken in a daze. “What should we do!”

“What else can we do! Go upstairs and sleep! Ken put down the tablet in his hand. As he walked upstairs, he said leisurely, “Don’t worry, I won’t be interested in you.

“You.” Melody was so angry that she blurted out, “A lot of people are interested in me!”

“Really?” Ken’s eyes were smiling as he glanced at her chest.

Melody quickly crossed her arms. Where are you looking?”

Ken looked away lightly. “Indeed, there’s nothing to see.

With that, he went straight upstairs.

“What do you mean?” Melody chased after him angrily. When she came back to her senses, she realized that she was already standing by his bed.

For a moment, she blushed.

Ken said naturally. I’m going to take a shower first. You can choose which side you want to sleep in.

With that, he went into the bathroom.

Soon, the sound of ambiguous water running came from the bathroom. Melody’s heart was beating like a drum as she sat on the bed with a flushed face.

She thought, ‘What do I do?

Although she had already married someone in her previous life, she was never intimate with Ulric, let alone sleeping on the same bed with him…

Melody bit her lower lip hard, her face so red that it could drip blood.

At this moment, the sound of water in the bathroom stopped.

Her heartbeat quickened at this moment.

The next second, the bathroom door opened.

As the door opened, the water vapor inside was also brought out. She could only vaguely see Ken standing in the mist. He was only wrapped in a white towel. His perfect abs were half covered by the towel, and his figure was so perfect that he was like a rare sculpture.

For a moment, Melody seemed to lie bewitched and subconsciously stared at him.

A muffled laugh suddenly sounded. Melody suddenly came back to her senses and her gaze happened to meet Ken’s obsidian–like black eyes.

Ken did not blow–dry his hair, His black hair was wet and stuck to his forehead. The contours of his cold face seemed to be gentler than usual.

His lips curled into a faint smile. “Why! You’ve never seen a man before?

Melody regained her senses and quickly looked away. She blushed and looked away as she denied it. I am not looking at you.

“Really?” The smile on his lips deepened. Just as he was about to speak, his phone suddenly rang, breaking the atmosphere in the room.

He reached out and looked at the caller ID on his phone. The gentleness on his face instantly dissipated, and he answered the call expressionlessly.

“Hello?”

James said. “Mr. Ken! Come to Leit Bar quickly. Miss Murphy’s condition is not good. She drank too much and wants to commit suicide!”

“What did you say?” Ken frowned.

“You’ll know the details when you get here. Hurry up and come over James sounded very anxious.

Ken held the phone tightly and said in a deep voice, “I’ll be right there”

With that, he hung up the phone, picked up a set of clothes, and walked out of the bedroom. As he walked, he said to Melody, “Something happened to Janet. I’m going out for a while. You can go to sleep first.”

Melody’s back stiffened. She subconsciously asked, “Are you going out now? Do you need me to go with you?”

However, Ken simply left after saying coolly. “No need.”

The sound of clothes rubbing against each other came from outside the door. Then, the sound of footsteps gradually faded away. With a bang, the door closed.

The room was so quiet that one could hear a pin drop. The light in Melody’s eyes dimmed bit by bit.

She couldn’t explain what she was feeling at the moment, but she felt that the room had suddenly become very cold.

She sat on the edge of the bed in a daze for a long time. Her mind was blank, but her mind was filled with Ken’s back when he left

In the end, she laughed at herself. She felt like a clown at that time.

Ken was worried about Janet’s situation, but she was blushing and her heart was beating like an 18–year–old girl in love. She felt pitiful and ridiculous.

Melody took a deep breath and patted her face. She told herself to sleep early and not think too much.

After washing up, she lay on the bed and looked at the ceiling. It was clearly very late, but she did not feel sleepy at all. Even she did not know what she was thinking.

Ken rushed to Leit Bar. It was a half–hour drive, but he arrived in less than 15 minutes.

“Mr. Ken!”*” James had already cleared the bar. He immediately saw Ken enter.

Ken nodded slightly and frowned as he looked at Janet.

She was completely drunk and her eyes were listless. It was as if she could not see anything clearly. She could only barely stand with James’s help, but she kept muttering that she wanted to die.

“What’s going on?” Ken stepped forward with a cold expression.

James handed Janet to Ken. As he took a step back, he said, “Miss Murphy refused to leave. She insisted… she insisted on committing suicide. She said that you don’t need her anymore. There’s no meaning for her to live.”

Ken’s expression instantly became even uglier.

He supported Janet with one hand and turned to remind James, “Go out and buy soane hangover medicine. Also, don’t let anyone enter the bar. She has a special identity. It’s not good for her to be seen like this.

“Yes,” James nodded and quickly walked out, feeling extremely gratified.

He thought, ‘Mr. Ken still cares about Miss Murphy!

After James left, Ken helped Janet to a seat. Just as he was about to let go, Janet wrapped her arms around his neck. “Ken?” It’s me, Ken replied.

No, you’re lying. You’re not him. Janet shook her head and laughed at herself. How can Ken come over? He doesn’t care about me at all. It’s better for me to die. Anyway, there’s no one in this world who cares about me.”

As she spoke, she got up and was about to bang her head on the table.

Chapter 229

Ken was startled and quickly reached out to grab Janet’s wrist

Janet took advantage of the momentum and fell into Ken’s arms, hitting his chest with her fists. “Let go of me! Let me die! None of should care about me!”

Ken had no other choice. He picked Janet up horizontally and started striding out.

Just as he reached the doorway, he bumped into James, who had just bought some hangover medicine.

Seeing Ken holding Janet, James asked, somewhat shocked, “Mr. Swanson? Where are you going?”

“To the nearby hotel. She’s in a bad state. We need to sober her up first.

“Yes, Mr. Swanson.” James quickly went to get the car, and soon they reached the nearest hotel.

However, neither of them noticed the flash of a camera in a black business car nearby.

At Serenity Villa, Melody was about to fall asleep when her phone suddenly chimed with a message.

Is it Ken?‘ she wondered.

Her sleepiness vanished instantly, and she opened her eyes to check her phone.

However, the message was from an unfamiliar number, containing just two photos.

Curious, she clicked on them, only to see pictures of Ken holding Janet intimately. In the second photo, Ken was carrying Janet into a hotel.

It was obvious what a man and a woman going into a hotel together would do.

Melody glanced at the bed she was lying in, which belonged to Ken. This scene felt oddly ironic.

It was her fault that this perfect couple couldn’t go home and had to sleep in a hotel.

Taking a deep breath, Melody got up, found a blanket in the closet, and went downstairs to lie on the couch.

The couch didn’t carry Ken’s scent, which helped calm her down. Her gaze fell back on her phone.

This time, she wasn’t looking at the photos but the number that sent them.

“Who has sent me these photos? What’s his or her purposer‘ she thought to herself.

She frowned slightly and dialed the number.

The phone rang twice before the other party hung up.

She tried calling again, but it went straight to voicemail.

Melody couldn’t even lie still on the couch. She opened Ken’s laptop on the coffee table and her fingers flew across the keyboard.

The screen filled with green lines of code as she rapidly typed. In no time, she had finished and hit the enter key, successfully hacking into the sender’s phone and retrieving his identity.

“Anthony Murphy.” She read the name aloud, her eyes narrowing as she searched for information about Anthony online.

Soon, she discovered he was a distant relative of the Murphy family in Instermond.

So it’s Janet’s doing. I should have guessed; she sneered inwardly.

Janet had set this up, just waiting to flaunt her victory.

With a blank expression, Melody deleted all traces of her activity from the laptop and closed it.

She couldn’t deny that her mood was completely ruined by Janet’s antics, her mind involuntarily imagining what might be happening between Ken and Janet at the hotel.

In the hotel suite, Ken laid Janet on the bed and was about to ask James to get some water when his wrist was suddenly gripped. It was Janet.

“Don’t go… don’t leave me. You’re all I have left…” Janet mumbled, her eyes misty with a haze of tears.

Ken frowned slightly, unable to leave Janet alone in this state.

He sighed and said, Jane, I need to get you some water. You’ve had too much to drink.”

“Don’t go.” Janet stubbornly tightened her grip on Ken’s wrist.

From the bed, Janet continued to murmur, “Don’t leave me here alone… My brother left, and abandoned me, and now you will too. I know I did wrong. but I truly regret it but no one listens…

Tears streamed down her cheeks, making her look even more pitiful.

Ken had no choice but to sit by the bed and use his free hand to dial James‘ number. “Bring the hangover medicine in, and ask the hotel to warm some milk.”

“Yes,” James replied succinctly and went to carry out the task.

After the call, Ken’s gaze fell back on Janet.

Janet had been with Ken through the creation of Ximber Tech. For one of Ximber Tech’s new products, she hadn’t even attended her brother’s funeral.

On the business battlefield, they had been unstoppable. No matter how formidable the opponent, Janet had always been confident and composed. He had never seen her so despondent.

Feeling a pang of guilt, Ken tucked the blanket around Janet and said, “I’m not leaving. You can’t handle alcohol well, so don’t go to places like bars in the future.”

As his words hung in the air, Janet’s sobbing seemed to ease.

Ken heaved a sigh of relief.

Just then, James knocked on the bedroom door with the hangover medicine.

‘Come in,” Ken said.

James entered, handing Ken a glass of water and the medicine while asking, “Mr. Swanson, is Miss Murphy feeling any better?”

“Somewhat” Ken replied. After a pause, he asked, “What about the guy who harassed her!”

The guy pretended to be unconscious and ran when we were about to put him in the car. The bar

James looked down, embarrassed. “He got away. The entrance was crowded, and we lost him.”

“And the bar’s surveillance footage!”

“Coincidentally, the surveillance system was being upgraded today, so nothing was recorded. We’ll have to wait until Miss Murphy sobers up fully and get a sketch artist to have her describe the guy.”

“Okay.” Ken’s expression was unreadable as he patted Janet’s shoulder. Jane, wake up and take your medicine. You’ll feel better.”

He brought the medicine to her lips, but Janet turned her head away, frowning like a child. “No medicine.”

“Be good,” Ken said, motioning for James to help him. Together, they struggled for a while before getting Janet to take the medicine.

As James was about to leave quietly, Ken called out to him, “James.”

James stopped and quickly asked, “Mr. Swanson, is there anything else?”

Ken looked down at Janet, her brows still furrowed in her sleep, and asked quietly. “Do you think I’ve been too cold-hearted toward Janet?”

James could not help but choke. Ken spoke again. “Say what you want to say.”

James hesitated, then swallowed hard and replied, “Miss Murphy’s contributions to you and the company are well–known. Seeing her like this, you do bear some responsibility. Honestly, how long have you known Miss Fox compared to how long Miss Murphy has been with you! Yet it seems you treat Miss Fox much better than Miss Murphy. Many people are disheartened by your actions.”

Ken’s back stiffened, his eyes darkening.

James quickly apologized. T’m sorry, Mr. Swanson. I overstepped.”

Chapter 230

When James thought Ken was about to get angry, he heard Ken say calmly. “It’s fine. You’re right. My punishment for Jane was indeed thoughtless. Once she recovers tomorrow, she can return to work. The launch of the new product can’t do without her.”

James let out a sigh of relief and instinctively said, “That’s the right decision!”

To James, Jane was the only woman who matched Ken perfectly, given how she toiled for the company and Ken.

Ken frowned and gave him a sidelong glance, which startled James. Realizing he had said too much, he quickly changed the subject. “Miss Murp wasn’t in good shape tonight. Are you staying here tonight”

Ken glanced at Janet, who was whimpering and seemingly uncomfortable. After a brief silence, he said, “Get me a blanket. I’ll stay here tonight. Yes. Mr. Swanson!” James responded with delight and went out to fetch a blanket. He quickly set up a bed on the floor.

Ken wanted to wash up, but as soon as he moved to leave, Janet began to cry.

By this time, the hangover medicine should have taken effect, but perhaps Janet was too drunk.

With no other option, he asked James to bring him some toiletries. He washed up stood by the bed and then settled down on the makeshift bed on the floor.

The night was both long and short.

Melody didn’t fall into a deep sleep until the early hours when the sky began to lighten. It felt like she had only slept for a moment when Susan’s voice woke her up. “Miss Fox? Why are you sleeping on the couch? Where’s Mr. Swanson?”

Melody was a light sleeper and had woken up when Susan entered the living room.

She sat up from the couch, feeling sore all over.

Faced with Susan’s questions, she didn’t know how to respond and vaguely said, “He had something to do and went out

“Oh, then why are you… Susan started to ask more, but Melody waved her hand tiredly, cutting her off. “It’s late. I’m heading out. If Ken comes back, please tell him I won’t be home tonight.”

Susan looked surprised but, seeing the dark circles under Melody’s eyes, she swallowed her words and simply nodded. “Alright, Miss Fox”

Melody didn’t linger any longer. After freshening up, she hailed a cab and headed to lcy Clear Cosmetics.

Coincidentally, as she got out of the taxi, she ran into Troy.

It seemed Troy was heading to the company next door. Not wanting to cause any trouble, Melody quickened her pace into Icy Clear Cosmetics.

However, Troy noticed her and swiftly stepped in her path.

“Melody?” Troy’s gaze scanned her from head to toe with disdain, then he let out a cold laugh. I never would have guessed it A country girl like you has some tricks up her sleeve. Even after I pulled such a big move by canceling my orders, your father will stand by you. I’m genuinely curious, what kind of tricks did you pull?”

Melody ignored most of what “Troy said, but she caught the part about Russell standing by her.

She felt a flicker of confusion as she wondered. ‘Could it be that Troy is mistaken? Yes, she hadn’t gone home last night, and Russell hadn’t called. which is unusual.

Suppressing her doubts, she calmly asked, “Is there something you need, Mr. Clark!”

Troy smirked slyly and said, “Nothing much. I just wanted to give you a head–up. The matter with Fam isn’t over. You’ll pay the price sooner or later!”

His face radiated a smug satisfaction, making Melody frown and feel a surge of unease.

“What’s Troy planning” she wondered.

Before she could ask further, Troy strode away, heading straight into the adjacent company, which also dealt in fashion design.

Melody noted the name of the company and then pushed aside her thoughts as she walked into Icy Clear Cosmetics.

Wilmot had sent an assistant to wait for her at the entrance. Seeing her approach, the assistant, with an indifferent expression, stepped forward. “Miss Fox, Mr. Sherman instructed me to wait for you here, I’ll take you to the R&D department.”

Noting the contempt in the assistant’s eyes, Melody didn’t say much and simply nodded, following the assistant to the R&D department.

“Mr. Mayer, she’s here,” the assistant casually informed Tim Mayer, the head of the R&D department, before turning to leave.

Melody instinctively called out to the assistant. “Where’s Wilmot?”

The assistant impatiently said, “Mr. Sherman is hospitalized with a fever. Mr. Mayer will be in charge of you.”

Then, without any regard for Melody, he muttered resentfully. “It’s all because of you, jinx. If you hadn’t bet the company. Mr. Sherman wouldn’t be so worried that he fell ill. Thanks to you, we’ll all be sick from stress soon enough!”

Melody opened her mouth, about to inquire about Wilmot’s condition, but the assistant didn’t bother to say another word and swiftly left.

She was about to call Wilmot when the head of the R&D department, Tim, called out to her. “Miss Fox, come with me, please.

Melody paused her motion to dial, realizing that Wilmot’s illness was likely stress-induced and the best way to help was to develop the new product quickly.

With this in mind, she put her phone away and followed Tim into the R&D department.

Unlike Wilmot’s assistant, Tim wore a constant friendly smile and responsibly introduced her to the R&D department. “This is the meeting room, those are the workstations for the R&D department staff and my office is right there. The lab is at the back.”

Melody nodded, her gaze sweeping over the empty workstations, and asked. “Isn’t anyone at work yet?”

Tim’s smile widened. “Of course not, everyone is busy working on the new product in the lab.”

“Working on the new product?” Melody’s brow furrowed.

She scrutinized Tim more closely, sensing something was off.

Tim maintained his smile and said, “Miss Fox, everyone is working hard because no one wants to lose their job over your big bet. After our morning meeting, we decided to improve the formula of the Golden Water. Maybe it can compete with the All–Purpose Water.”

Melody’s face darkened further. “Why didn’t anyone inform me about the meeting? Didn’t I say I would develop the new product!”

Tim gave a sardonic smile. “Miss Fox, it’s important to understand one’s limits. As far as I know, you don’t even have a bachelor’s degree. How could you possibly develop a cosmetic product! Those claims are for Silk Beauty Cosmetics, not for us insiders.”

Melody stared coldly at Tim, finally seeing him for the hostile hypocrite he was, even worse than the assistant.

Tim continued, “For the next few days, you just need to clock in and out on time. By the way. I’ve arranged your workstation by the window, so you can enjoy the view and not get bored. Of course, if you do get bored, you can play some games or something Just don’t disturb the R&D staff.”

Melody bit her lip hard, suppressing her anger. “Mr. Mayer, what do you mean? Are you saying you don’t intend to let me participate in the development of the new product?”

Tim kept smiling. “Miss Fox, what are you talking about! You are the key figure in our new product. On the day of the showdown, we’ll need you to step up. Isn’t that participation.“”

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Chapter 221

Melody opened her mouth, wanting to show her determination, but she swallowed the words that were on the tip of her tongue. She knew that actions were always more effective than words.

Moreover, if Ken really had no intention of starting a war with Ulric, before he changed his mind, she should not think about dragging Ken down with her.

Everyone had their own life plan. Ken’s plan was to do Ximber Tech well, but her plan was to take revenge. They had two completely different lives. Even though she was reborn, she should not casually change the lives of innocent people.

However, poaching Zack was something she had promised Ken, so she would definitely do her best to fulfill it.

“I’ll do my best,” Melody said after some thought.

Soon, the car arrived at the neighborhood of the Fox family.

Thank you. I’m leaving” Melody nodded politely at Ken as if the relationship between the two of them had returned to the beginning.

Just as Melody was about to open the car door, her left wrist was suddenly grabbed by a large hand. “Melody”

Melody subconsciously turned around and met Ken’s eyes which were as deep as obsidian.

“What is it?” she asked.

Ken’s thin lips moved slightly. “You’re acting very strange today.”

There was an indescribable strangeness as if an invisible barrier had suddenly formed between them.

“How am I strange? Melody asked.

Ken opened his mouth and swallowed his words after two seconds. He shook his head and said, “It’s fine. You can leave.

“Okay,” Melody replied. However, Ken did not let go. She could only remind him, “Your hand.”

Ken seemed to have come back to his senses and quickly let go of her wrist

Melody was able to get out of the car smoothly.

In the car, Ken watched Melody’s figure disappear at the entrance of the neighborhood before looking away.

He felt indescribably annoyed.

Instead of driving away, he lit a cigarette and called James.

“Mr. Swanson,” James said on the other end of the phone, “Miss Wentworth has been safely sent to her dormitory. Do you have any other instructions!”

Ken said, “Immediately investigate how Melody made Zack agree to talk to her about jumping ship.”

James asked in surprise, “Zack actually agreed!”

Ken said. “Cut the crap. Investigate immediately.”

On the other end of the phone, James was shocked. He felt that Ken was especially scary that day.

He did not dare to say anything else and quickly began to investigate. Soon, he found the results. “Mr. Ken, I’ve found it.”

Ken said. “Shoot

“Miss Fox, she…” James hesitated. There was still shock in his tone. He paused for a moment and continued, “I can’t explain it in one or two sentences. I’ll send you a video call directly!”

Ken said. “Send it over.”

James said, “Yes”

Ken hung up the call and quickly received a video call from James.

The video was a surveillance video. It was at the traffic light in front of the back door of River Hotel.

He pressed the play button and saw Zack crossing the road while making a call. Zack did not notice that a sports car had turned the corner and was speeding towards him.

Just as Ken thought that something was going to happen to Zack, a familiar figure rushed towards him at high speed, just as the sports car was about to hit Zack Nelson, she used the weight of her body to push Zack to the side, avoiding the impact of the sports car..

In the surveillance footage, Ken could clearly see that the sports car would have hit Melody if she had been a second late.

He thought, That girl… actually exchanged her life for a chance to talk to Zack! She actually felt that an opportunity to speak to Zack was more important than her life. How could she smile while talking about this? She is so stupid.

Ken’s eyes were extremely dark. He opened his contact list and was about to call Melody.

However, before the call could connect, he quickly hung up.

That girl’s family was not like the Swanson family. Ken felt that a call from him might cause her trouble.

Thinking of this, Ken switched to the bank app. He directly transferred Melody 2 million dollars.

20 million dollars was a little too much. According to that girl’s temper, she might not accept it. He would just transfer her 2 million dollars for now,

James was just as shocked as Ken.

Before this, he had always thought Melody might be a spy sent by Ulric. At this moment, he had completely dismissed this guess.

If Melody did not owe Ken in her previous life, she would not be willing to work so hard for him.

Moreover, during the time he had been with Melody, he had never realized that she had done anything that might be harmful to Ken. On the contrary, she was busy with Ken’s matters almost every day.

In fact, she did not even tell Ken about the fact that she was able to get a chance to talk to Zach after almost losing her life. This proved that she was not scheming.

James realized that he had misunderstood her.

James thought about it and felt a little sorry. He opened the bank app and transferred 200 thousand dollars to Melody to apologize.

After doing all this, he did not even ask Ken. He took the initiative to drive to the Fox family and was ready to be on standby.

At the same time, Melody did not return to the Fox family immediately after getting out of the car. Instead, she walked around the neighborhood.

She was hesitating whether she should form an alliance with Ken or not.

However, not long after she took a walk, her phone rang twice.

She was very short of money, so she was especially sensitive to this notification sound. She subconsciously took out her phone.

The mobile bank showed that she had 22 million dollars in her account, which came from James and Ken.

She wondered what was going on with their two.

Melody opened WhatsApp and sent Ken a question mark and a screenshot of the transfer.

Ken quickly replied: This is your reward for today.

Melody quickly replied. [But I haven’t poached Zack yet. Isn’t this reward too early!)

Ken asked: [What do you think? The money is to reward you for almost sacrificing your life.]

Upon seeing this line of words, Melody immediately understood that he knew what had happened on the sidewalk

Ken sent another message: [I asked you to poach Zach, not to die. I don’t need outlaws. If this happens again, I won’t need you to work for me anymore]

Melody looked at the message and her eyes could not help but drift.

She thought. They worried about me.

But in the blink of an eye, Melody rejected this idea.

She thought, “What am I thinking! That capitalist must be afraid that my death will bring him trouble”

She patted her face and told herself not to think too much. Then, she called James and asked, “What happened to the 200 thousand dollars? Did you transfer it to the wrong person?”

“No.” James coughed twice and said, “Mr. Ken asked me to transfer this to you. The Clark family’s matter has frightened you. Take it and buy something to calm yourself down.”

Melody said. “James”

James answered, “Yes”

Melody asked. “Has anyone ever told you that you’re really bad at lying!”

On the other end of the line, James’s face instantly turned red. Take it or leave it! If you don’t want it, give it back to me!”

Melody’s heart warmed slightly. She smiled and said, “Thank you We are definitely going to be friends, I’ve been short of money recently. I’ll return it to you when I become rich.

“Who cares about this amount of money? James mumbled for a while and said, “I’ll be at your neighborhood in 20 minutes. If you need anything in the future, just say it. Don’t forget that you’re a girl.”

Melody could hear the awkward concern in his voice. Her smile widened and she said gently. Thank you, James.”

However, her thanks made James feel as if he was facing a great enemy. He immediately cut off the call.

He thought. This Miss Fox is better off treating me coldly!

Melody hung up the phone. The dilemma in her heart finally came to a conclusion.

Chapter 222

Even if Ken did not intend to deal with Ulric, their war was already destined to take place. Ulric would definitely not let Ken off.

In that case, Melody could continue to work for Ken and help him plan ahead until Ulric started causing trouble and Ken could not take it anymore.

What Ken disdained to do did not mean that there was no need to do it. After dealing with the matter at hand, she would help Ken clear his name and expose Ulric’s true colors.

Melody took a deep breath and was about to go home when she received the audio from the black market’s stall owner.

She lowered the volume and leaned her phone against her ear to listen. The corners of her lips curled up slightly, and her eyes revealed a hint of coldness.

Yolanda had indeed gone to the black market to buy poison again. Now, she only needed to wait for news of Hattie’s son to grasp Yolanda’s lifeline.

Before that, she had to constantly shake Russell’s trust and love for Yolanda.

Thinking of this, Melody no longer had the leisure to take a walk. After saving the audio to her secret email, she completely erased the chat history and sent 200 thousand dollars as payment to the other party. People in the black market were after the money after all. Even if she had a red card, she had to give that person some benefits.

She texted: [If Yolanda comes looking for you again, deal with it the same as this time.]

The other party took the money and quickly replied. (No problem!]

Just as Melody was about to put away her phone, the still owner sent another message. [Do you still want the herbs you asked for last time?]

Melody answered: [Yes. You have them!]

The stall owner: The items already arrived at customs, but for some reason, they were detained. Fortunately, we arranged to pay after we received the items. There were no actual losses. However, it’s very difficult to get this medicinal herb into Halcyon. I don’t know when we’ll have more next time, so we can only go overseas to buy it. However, the medicinal herb comes from Alihan. The war there is endless, so it’s very difficult to go over there.]

Melody’s eyes darkened. She asked: Then is there any way to get this herb without going overseas?

[There’s a way. After the other party replied, he made a call.

Melody found an empty corner and answered the call. Tell me, is there any other way?”

The stall owner said. “The person in charge of the customs warehouse is a person called Benny Lawrence. This person is greedy and likes women. He takes bribes all the time and is the same as his brother, Bobby Lawrence. If you can bribe him, he might be able to give you the herbs. By the way, do you know who Bobby is? He’s a high–level executive of the Swanson Universal Entertainment…”

Melody’s expression instantly turned extremely ugly.

She thought, Isn’t Bobby the bastard who wanted to take me away from the venue?

She gritted her teeth, secretly vexed.

Fortunately, Benny was in charge of the warehouse, not Bobby.

Melody held the phone tightly and said, “I understand. Thank you.”

The stall owner said, “No. It’s my duty to do things for you! If I encounter any difficulties in the future, please send me some help, Miss Fox.”

“Okay,” Melody replied and put away her phone.

After dealing with Wilmot and Zack, she had to think of a way to get the medicinal herbs through Benny.

At the same time, Mabel was scrolling through her phone in the living room.

She saw Bobby, a senior executive of Swanson Universal Entertainment, being arrested for harassing celebrities employed by him.

She didn’t follow the entertainment industry, so she absent-mindedly scrolled through the news.

However, after scrolling through this news, the next news made her eyelids twitch violently. [The only daughter of the Clark Fashion Group’s CEO, Pamela Clark, bullied Zara Wentworth, who has just won the acting award. She is currently detained for ten days for defamation.

“Pamela?” Mabel could not help but exclaim. She hurriedly clicked on the details.

The most popular news post was a surveillance video,

She quickly clicked on the video and saw that Zara seemed to have drunk too much. She held a glass of red wine and walked unsteadily towards the bathroom.

However, at this moment, Pamela came out of the toilet and the two of them bumped into each other.

Pamela was fine, but the hem of her dress was drenched in red wine. Zara, on the other hand, was a little miserable. She fell backward from the impact. From her expression, one could tell that it was a painful fall.

Zara could not care less about the pain. She stood up and bowed to Pamela repeatedly to apologize.

However, Pamela refused to let go. She kept hitting and scolding Zara the entire time, and the video ended abruptly.

However, Mabel’s sharp eyes caught a glimpse of the last second of the video. Just as Zara was about to snatch her phone back, a familiar figure appeared in the video. Although it was only for a second, Mabel immediately recognized the figure as Melody.

She thought, ‘Melody again! I am not qualified to attend the banquet that Pamela went to today. Why was Melody able to go?

She vaguely felt that this matter had something to do with Melody. She found Troy’s number and called him.

The call was picked up on the second try. Mabel quickly pretended to be concerned and asked, “Troy, I saw Pam’s news online. What’s going on? Why is she suddenly detained?”

Troy’s furious voice came from the other end of the phone. “You still have the cheek to ask? Your good sister personally sent my daughter to the police station! If it weren’t for your good relationship with Pam, our family wouldn’t have given the Justation Group orders! Just wait, this matter. isn’t over!”

With that, Troy hung up. Mabel was stunned for two seconds before her eyes suddenly lit up.

Melody had gotten into trouble again. This time, it concerned their father’s company. She felt that her father would definitely not let Melody off.

Mabel happily reported the good news to Yolanda.

Yolanda was both happy and worried. “Your father’s company has been in a bad situation recently. If the Clark Group cancels the collaboration with us, I’m afraid our lives will be even more difficult. However, this time, your father will definitely not let Melody off easily.”

“That’s right” Mabel nodded repeatedly. “The company’s matters are nothing. When 1 marry Ulric, we can survive this crisis”

“You’re right. When you become his wife, the Justation Group is nothing in comparison to you. If it weren’t for the fact that the Justalion Group has allowed us to live a pampered life, I would have closed it down long ago. The Justalion Group is a company founded by the short-lived Wilona. I feel unlucky every time I go there.”

“So what should we do now?” Mabel could not wait to see Russell hear Melody up.

Yolanda smiled coldly and said, “Don’t be anxious. That girl is very cunning. She might be able to excuse herself again. This time, we won’t say anything. If the Clark Group cancels the order, your father will definitely be the first to know. He will teach Melody a lesson without us saying anything. We just need to add fuel to the fire.”

Mabel nodded repeatedly. At the same time, Melody, who was almost at the doorstep, also saw the news online.

The moment she saw the news, she knew that Ken had asked someone to upload the video online.

After all, the Swanson Group was in charge of the surveillance cameras in the venue. If Ken had not spoken, no one would have dared to expose this matter online.

However, the thought that Ken would really not find trouble with Troy. She did not expect that when he said that he would not vent his anger on others, it turned out that he was using another method to deal with Troy.

With public opinion, Ken did not need to do anything at all, Ramon would terminate the cooperation with Clark Group.

This move not only removed Ken from this matter completely, but it also made Troy feel pain, I could make Zara popular as a victim. It was simply killing three birds with one stone.

However, this matter was not entirely a good thing for Melody The Clark Group had a close cooperation with the Justalion Group. After this, Troy would probably withdraw the order he had given to the Justalion Group. At that time, Russell would inevitably go crazy over her again.

She could not reply to the Fox family for the time being. Thinking of this, Melody called Ken. “Mr. Swanson, your wife is in trouble. Can you take me in for the night?”

Chapter 223

On the other end of the line, Ken’s car was already halfway home. When he heard Melody’s words, he immediately turned the car around, but his voice was calm.

“What do you mean? It was as if he didn’t care.

Melody said, “I’m afraid I’m going to have to spend the night at your place.”

“What do you mean! What happened? Ken subconsciously grabbed the steering wheel and drove quickly

“Nothing has happened yet, but it might not be the case when Russell comes back.” As she spoke, Melody explained the relationship between the Clark Group and the Justalion Group.

She did not hide her disappointment and disgust for Russell.

When Ken heard this, he felt slightly relieved, “Looks like your father is comparable to mine.”

Melody said, “Your father is better. At least he is reasonable.”

Ken did not comment.

Ever since he was young, whenever he did not do his best, what awaited him was a beating. On the contrary, Ulric was pampered since he was young. However, Ulric was the one who always felt he was treated unfairly. Ken fought that ridiculous.

He was silent for two seconds before saying, “Wait for me at the back of the neighborhood. I’ll be there in ten minutes.”

“Thank you, Mr. Swanson! Don’t worry, I’ll pay for my stay Melody’s lips curved into a smile. She hung up the phone and quickened her pace towards the back of the community.

It wasn’t that she didn’t want to stay in a hotel, but it was hard to guarantee that Russell wouldn’t drag her back from the hotel. Therefore, Ken’s house was the safest place to go.

The next second after the call ended, Ken found Russell’s number and dialed it.

Russell was rushing to the Clark family because the Clark Group suddenly withdrew the order without giving him a reason and did not answer his call. He was so anxious that his heart was burning.

At this moment, an unknown number called.

Frustrated, he answered the call. There was anger in his voice. “Who is this?”“”“

The other end of the line was silent for two seconds before asking faintly, What’s wrong, Mr. Fox?”

Russell’s back stiffened. He stepped on the brakes and asked in shock, “Mr. Swanson?”

Russell quickly pulled over and asked respectfully, “Mr. Swanson, what’s the matter?”

Ken said, “It’s about Melody”

“What?” Russell could not help but frown. He subconsciously asked, “Did my good–for–nothing daughter cause you trouble!”

“A good–for–nothing daughter!” There was a hint of coldness in Ken’s voice. “Mr. Fox, what kind of misunderstanding do you have with your daughter! I haven’t even said anything and you already think that she’s causing trouble?”

Russell said, “No. I just…“

Ken directly interrupted Russell and said, “Not only did Miss Fox not cause me any trouble, but she also helped me a lot. You don’t need to know the specifics. I called you to explain the withdrawal of the Clark Group’s order.”

“Clark Group?” Russell could not connect Melody to the Clark Group. He asked, “What happened?”

Ken said, “Troy’s daughter, Pamela, bullied our company’s celebrity. Miss Fax stepped forward to protect our celebrity. I was afraid that Troy would implicate the Justalion Group in a fit of anger, so I specially called to ask about the situation.

Russell suddenly raised his eyelids. He finally understood why Troy withdrew the order in large quantities without any reason. It was related to Melody.

However, compared to Troy, Ken was • real big shot.

Although there was a high chance that Ulric would inherit the Swanson Group in the future, a slight benefit offered to him by the Swanson family was considered a big benefit for him, let alone the benefits offered by Ken.

The more Russell thought about it, the more he felt that this was not a bad thing. He quickly smiled apologetically and said. “It’s Melody’s honor to be able to help you. It’s the Justalion Group’s honor to have you call me and ask about it.”

Ken said calmly. “I was just worried that you would vent your anger on Miss Fox, so I specially explained it to you for her.

Russell said ingratiatingly. “Why would I vent my anger on my daughter over such a small matter?”

On the other end of the phone, Ken raised his eyebrows and said, “Don’t worry. Mr. Fox. I’ll compensate you as soon as possible for the losses you’ve had this time. Troy’s company is no longer suitable to work with us. The Swanson Universal Entertainment will find a new partner soon. When the time comes, we can consider your company. After all, your company is an experienced brand and is Miss Fox’s company. It’s worthy of our trust.

“Cooperate?” Russell was momentarily unable to receive this shocking news. He could only feel his vision becoming dizzy.

He pinched his thigh hard and only came back to his senses when he felt the pain.

He grabbed his phone tightly and confirmed excitedly. “Is Swanson Universal Entertainment really going to work with the Justalion Group?”

Ken said, “Yes, I’ll try my best to make it happen.

Russell said, “Thank you for giving the Justalion Group this chance! We will definitely do our best and not affect your celebrities‘ image!”

Ken said calmly. “Mr. Fox, I’m afraid you’re thanking the wrong person. The person you should thank should be Miss Melody.”

“Yes. I do that in a moment. Russell felt that Melody was really his lucky star.

Ken paused and said again. There’s something I don’t know if I should say:

Russell said, “Tell me.”

Ken said. “Miss Fox is a very promising person. I admire her very much, but for some reason, Mr. Fox, you seem to be more biased towards the other daughter. As a father, I think you should be fair and not look at her with prejudice, right?”

Russell did not expect Ken to be talking about this. He was stunned for a while before he realized that he was indeed too biased towards Mabel.

He said rather shamefully, “You’re right. Melody didn’t grow up by my side, so I’m not very close to her and often misunderstand her. But I promise that it won’t happen again in the future! I’ll definitely be fair.”

Ken said, “That better be the case. I still have something on so I’ll hang up first. Oh, right, Miss Fox seems to have been frightened today. She’ll be staying with my grandmother and won’t be coming home tonight. Don’t contact her today either. She should sleep early.”

“Alright.” Russell agreed.

After the call ended, the corners of Russell’s mouth almost stretched to the sky.

He thought, ‘A collaboration with Swanson Universal Entertainment Once I collaborate with the celebrities from Swanson Universal Entertainment, I don’t have to worry about not being able to sell clothes anymore!

This good news made Russell feel dizzy. He sat in the car for a long time before coming back to his senses and smiling like a fool.

After calming down a little, Russell immediately informed the factories to work overtime to make clothes in case they ran out of stock.

Just as he was about to go home, Troy called. When he saw Troy’s caller ID, Russell pursed his lips in disdain.

He thought. This old fox has suppressed the profits of the order to such a low level. He even withdrew the orders without giving us a reason. He is simply inhumane! Fortunately, I no longer need to work with this old fox in the future.

Russell deliberately waited a few seconds before picking up the call. “Hello?”

As soon as he finished speaking, Troy’s cold and mocking voice came from the other end. “Mr. Fox, you called me so many times. What do you want?

Chapter 224

On the other end of the line, Troy deliberately kept Russell at dispense for a long time before calling him back.

He had previously learned from Pamela that Russell did not like Melody, so he planned to use Russell to teach Melody a lesson.

Without the Clark Group’s order, the Justalion Group probably wouldn’t be able to hold on for long. He knew that Russell would definitely jump up and down in anxiety. And now, it was time to make things clear.

When Russell heard Troy’s mocking tone, he was neither anxious nor angry. Instead, he put on a smile and said. “My staff me that you withdrew the order.

Troy snorted and did not notice that Russell’s tone was off. He said arrogantly. “It seems like you still don’t know what happened.”

“What happened?” Russell pretended not to know and wanted to play with Troy.

Troy briefly explained the detention of Melody and Pamela. Then, he said fiercely. “If you don’t make that bitch pay the price, the Clark Group will never cooperate with you again. Think about it!”

The corners of Russell’s lips curled up as he said, “Mr. Clark, you’re wrong. How can I take my anger out on my biological daughter for the company’s matters? Since Mr. Clark suspects that we want to terminate the collaboration, terminate the contract as you wish! I get the financial evaluation for the termination fee of the contract later. I won’t get involved. I hope Mr. Clark can transfer the termination fee as soon as possible so that we won’t look bad in court.”

Troy choked. He didn’t believe what he had just heard. This was not the Russell he knew,

He said. “Russell, are you drunk? Did you hear what I said? Compared to the penalty, losing our orders is a greater loss, right?”

Russell said slowly, “It used to be like this, but not anymore.”

Troy asked, “What do you mean? Do you actually want me to do this for your ugly daughter! Have you thought it through?”

Russell said coldly. “Troy, if you dare to use the word ugly to describe my daughter again, I won’t be polite to you!”

In the past, he also felt that Melody had embarrassed him, but he no longer felt that way. This girl was his fortune tree. As long as she was by his side, he would be lucky.

Troy was furious. “Russell, are you crazy!”

Russell chuckled and said, “I think you’re the one who’s crazy. Looks like you haven’t seen the news online. Your company is going to be finished soon, and you still have the mood to talk nonsense with me? Go online and take a look! Idiot!”

After scolding him, Russell hung up the phone and blocked Tray. His anger from being bullied by Troy for a long time instantly dissipated. He felt very satisfied.

He drove home in a good mood, humming along the way. The more he thought about it, the more he felt that Melody was his lucky star. He even regretted not bringing Melody back earlier.

At the same time, Melody got into Ken’s car.

Ken glanced at her calmly and said, “You’ve caused such a big trouble. Your father will take at least a few days to calm down. You can stay at my place for the next few days until the storm blows over,“

Melody nodded. “Thank you.”

Ken said, “It’s no trouble. In the future, you’ll cook meals at home every day as accommodation fees.”

Melody pursed her lips. She thought. ‘He is really unwilling to suffer any losses.

However, she was going to start developing a new product for Wilmot tomorrow. During this period of time, she could not be disturbed at all. She indeed needed to stay at Ken’s residence for a period of time.

With that thought in mind. Melody happily agreed. “Alright, I’ll prepare all three meals every day.

Ken did not comment, but the corners of his lips curled up imperceptibly.

The car quickly arrived at the entrance of Serenity Villa.

Melody could not help but sigh. She did not expect to end up staying here at night after going to the banquet.

Susan, who had received the news already, was eagerly looking around at the door. When she saw the two of them get out of the car, she quickly greeted them with a smile.

“Miss Fox, you’re finally here! Susan smiled and said. Tve already prepared a room for you. The bed sheets and bedding are all new. I hope you can get used to it.”

“Thank you, Susan. Melody’s heart warmed as she said. She could not resist sincere kindness.

However, Melody did not notice that Ken, who was behind her, watched her and Susan enter the door. His eyes were as deep as a deep pool.

As soon as the two of them entered, Susan asked with concern, “Have you eaten?”

Melody had not realized that she had not even had a drop of water for the entire night, let alone eaten. When Susan asked this, she suddenly felt a little hungry.

She smiled sheepishly. “Not yet.”

Susan asked. “I’ll make food for you. What do you want to eat?”

Ken, who was beside him, said calmly, “Susan, don’t bother. She’ll be in charge of the meals at home for the next few days. Let her cook.

The smile on Melody’s face stiffened. She thought, “What an evil capitalist!

She took a deep breath and maintained a smile on her face. “Susan, you should rest. I’ll make dinner.

“This Susan looked at Ken but did not dare to refute. She could only enter the kitchen to help Melody.

Melody looked at the ingredients at home and decided to make two bowls of spaghetti.

Susan said apologetically. “Mr. Ken has very high requirements for food. I don’t even dare to hoard things. I buy and make them on the spot.

“It’s fine. Two bowls of spaghetti are enough for now,” Melody said as she got to work.

The first step was to boil the water.

While waiting for the water to boil. Susan praised, “Your cooking must be very good.”

Melody asked. “Do you want some? I’ll cook three bowls.”

“No need, no need, Susan waved her hand and said. “You’ve misunderstood me. I don’t want to eat spaghetti. Do you still remember the last time you cooked oatmeal for Mr. Ken?”

Melody said. “I remember. Why?”

Susan looked outside. After confirming that Ken would not come in, she lowered her voice and said. “The oatmeal you made for lunch last time. Mr. Ken even asked me to heat up the leftovers for dinner.”

Melody recalled and asked. “Didn’t we finish it at noon? Shane didn’t have enough back then.

Susan lowered her voice again. “Actually, Mr. Ken secretly hid a bowl.”

Melody paused and looked at Susan in disbelief. “Really?”

Melody was even more shocked.

She thought, “Isn’t that guy too petty? It is fine if he doesn’t like Wilmot, but he even hides children’s food. It seems that I still know too little of him.

Susan did not know what Melody was thinking. She did not notice her frowning expression and was secretly happy. She thought, “Since I have revealed this information, Miss Fox should know Mr. Ken’s intentions, right?”

At that moment, the water boiled.

The two bowls of spaghetti went into the pot and quickly softened.

Melody carefully scooped it out and added specially made ingredients.

With a ripping sound, the originally bland spaghetti instantly turned into delicious food.

Melody carried the spaghetti out. Susan stayed in the kitchen to clean up.

The two of them sat opposite each other. At this moment, Ken’s phone on the table rang.

Melody subconsciously glanced at the caller ID and saw that it was Janet.

Chapter 225

Seeing Janet’s call, Melody couldn’t help but think of the post online.

Ken clearly knew that it was Janet’s doing, but he told her that he did not find the perpetrator.

It was undeniable that there was an indescribable discomfort in her heart when she thought of this.

However, she did not show any emotions and only lowered her head to eat her spaghetti seriously.

Ken also saw the caller ID and rejected the call without thinking.

Melody thought that Ken would pick up the phone, but in the end, he ended up talking to her. “Melody, don’t you think you’re a little stingy?”

“What?” She looked up in shock and saw Ken pointing at the spaghetti with a look of disdain. “Last time I asked you to cook, you cooked oatmeal. This time, I asked you to cook. You cooked spaghetti Can’t you make a normal meal? I didn’t see you complaining about the trouble at the Swanson family’s mountain villa a few days ago.”

Melody was about to explain that it was because there were insufficient ingredients when his phone rang again. It was still Janet calling.

Melody glanced at him and said. “You’re not picking it up.”

Ken’s eyes were filled with impatience, but he still picked up the call.

“Hello?” His voice was extremely cold.

There was only noise on the other end of the phone. Then, an unfamiliar man’s voice sounded. “Hello, is this Miss Murphy’s family?”

Ken frowned. “Who are you!”

The other party’s tone was very had. “I’m a guest of Leit Bar. Your girlfriend vomited all over me. Get over here and compensate me! My clothes are not cheap! If you don’t come over in ten minutes, don’t blame me for doing something bad to her.”

Ken said, “Don’t touch her. I’ll be right there.”

“Hurry up!” the other party urged before hanging up.

The volume of the call was very loud, and Melody could hear it clearly.

She remembered that in her previous life, Janet was the kind of person who would not go to a bar at all. She thought, “Why did she get drunk at a bar? Could it be that she has ulterior motives?

However, Melody was too lazy to get involved. After all, she was not the one who was going to clean up the mess.

Ken did not immediately get up and leave. Instead, after hanging up the phone, he immediately made another call. “James, pick Janet up at Leit Bar. She’s had too much to drink.”

Without waiting for James to respond, he hung up the phone and picked up the fork again. He started eating his spaghetti

Seeing this, Melody could not help but ask in surprise, “You’re not going over there?”

“James is closer to Leit Bar than me,” Ken said matter–of–factly.

Melody could not help but choke, What a reasonable statement. She could not refuse it.

Ken, who was sitting opposite her, looked at the spaghetti in front of him. His face was still filled with disdain. He rolled up some spaghetti, dipped them in some sauce, and put them into his mouth.

In the next second, a look of surprise appeared on his face.

The spaghetti seemed plain, but it was delicious. He even wondered if Melody cast a spell on this food.

However, he quickly hid his surprise and ate the spaghetti expressionlessly.

Soon, the bowl of spaghetti was empty. He actually felt like he hadn’t had enough. Those who didn’t know better would think that he had never eaten anything delicious before. He couldn’t even get enough of some spaghetti.

When Melody saw that Ken had finished eating, she subconsciously asked, “How does it taste?

“So–so,” Ken n said emotionlessly, “I want to eat normal food tomorrow.”

“Got it.” Melody pursed her lips. She felt that the spaghetti she made tasted pretty good. Everyone who had tasted the spaghetti she cooked was full.

Chapter 925

of praise. She felt that Ken was too picky,

At Leit Bar, Janet’s eyes were bright as she watched the man beside her call Ken. She did not look drunk at all and asked clearly, “What did he say!”

The man replied respectfully, “He said he’ll be here soon.

Janet nodded and said. “Continue acting when he arrives. The more rude you are, the better.

The man said. “Yes, Miss Janet.

Janet said, “Remember to change the way you address me. We don’t know each other!”

“Yes, Miss… Okay.” The man changed his words with difficulty

Janet glared at the man and warned him in a low voice, “If you dare to expose yourself when Ken comes, you know the consequences?”

The man shrunk his neck and promised repeatedly, “I won’t!”

Janet’s mood improved a little. She took a bottle of wine and smeared some on her clothes. Then, she drank some wine.

When she felt that she reeked of alcohol, she asked the man to open more than ten bottles of wine in a row. Then, she poured out all the wine in the bottle and sat in the booth in peace, waiting for Ken to arrive.

At the Fox family, Yolanda and Mabel sat in the living room and waited. Mabel was getting impatient and kept walking around the living room. Yolanda massaged her temples and said with a frown, “Stop going around. It’s giving me a headache!”

Mabel walked to Yolanda’s side and asked anxiously in a low voice, “Mom, why isn’t Melody back yet? Could it be that she knows that she has caused trouble and doesn’t dare to come back! She usually comes back late, but it’s almost eleven o’clock. She has never come back so late before.”

Yolanda smiled mockingly and said, “That wretched girl is very cunning. I’m afraid she really found a hotel to lie low. But don’t worry, your father is in contact with everyone in the hotel When he gets angry, he will definitely catch her! At that time, her outcome will only be even worse.

Compared to Mabel’s anxiety, Yolanda seemed much more relaxed.

Melody never come back so late before. It seemed that she was really guilty and afraid. If Melody came back early, she would feel that something was wrong.

Yolanda’s lips curled up slightly. Her face was filled with victory.

At this moment, the butler came in and reported “Mr. Russell is back.”

As soon as he finished speaking, Russell walked into the living room.

I’m hungry,” Russell said in a good mood, “Prepare something for me to eat. Anything will do.”

“Alright.” Yolanda quickly nodded and instructed the servants to go to the kitchen to cook.

After doing this, she thoughtfully helped Russell take off his jacket. Mabel also handed him a cup of hot drink at the right time.

Russell felt even more comfortable as he lay lazily on the sofa.

Yolanda and Mable waited for a long time, but Russell did not seem to be angry.

Yolanda thought, “Could it be that Russell still does not know that Melody has caused trouble?

Even Yolanda could not wait any longer. She secretly gave Mabel a look, indicating for her to speak.

Mabel immediately understood and put on a worried expression. “Dad, I just saw the news of Pamela being detained online. You know, I’m good friends with Pamela, so I called Mr. Clark out of worry. He said that it was Melody who caused Pamela to go to jail. Do you know what’s going on! Will Melody’s actions affect our company?”

Yolanda played along and pretended to sigh helplessly. Melody is so worrisome. She doesn’t stay at home at all. As her stepmother, I can’t say anything. You have to talk to her another day.

Prev | Next 

Chapter 216

“Don’t forget that Zack already knows that you’re a country bumpkin and doesn’t want to talk to you anymore! If you know what’s good for you, kneel down and admit your mistake!” Troy was aggressive, and Zara’s heart was beating fast. Especially when she saw the fat man standing beside Troy, her face instantly turned pale.

She tugged at Melody’s sleeve and said in a low voice, “Miss Fox, bad news. That man beside Mr. Clark… is famous for being lustful. He’s one of the higher-ups of Swanson Universal Entertainment. Many low–level celebrities have been harassed by him.”

“Don’t worry, I got it.” Melody gently pressed Zara’s hand and turned to meet Troy’s gaze. “Mr. Clark, let me walk you through this matter. It’s our fault for accidentally bumping into her. We’ve also apologized, but Miss Clark wouldn’t let go of this matter. Not only did she insult Zara, snatch her phone, and hit her face, but she also tried to hit me, the person who tried to persuade her. I was just defending myself.”

Troy did not listen to Melody’s explanation at all. He said arrogantly, “Hit you? So what if she hit you? It’s an honor for a country bumpkin like you to be hit by my daughter!”

“You…” Melody was about to speak when the man next to Troy said with a wretched smile, “Mr. Clark, don’t be angry. After all, she’s a shy girl. Shouldn’t you give her some face?”

Troy glanced at Bobby Lawrence and saw that he was staring straight at Melody. Troy could not help but smile. It was rumored that Bobby had a fetish for ugliness. He did not expect it to be true. It seemed that he had called the right person.

Troy smiled and asked, “Mr. Lawrence, are you interested in her?”

The smile on Bobby’s face deepened. “Mr. Clark, if you don’t mind, can you hand her over to me and let me handle this matter?”

“Of course. This is your place. You should be the one to deal with it.” Troy waved his hand and said, “Bring her to Mr. Lawrence!”

At Troy’s order, a few bodyguards went forward to catch Melody.

Melody wanted to struggle, but he was afraid that if she made a move, he would ruin Ken’s celebration party. She could only endure it and not move. She was forcefully dragged in front of Bobby.

Bobby looked at Melody greedily. When he saw her long hair and thin waist, as well as her extremely ugly face, he felt that his appetite was even better. She was so ugly and had such a good figure. To him, she was simply a stunner.

“Young lady, you have to apologize for your mistakes. Didn’t your teacher teach you? Listen to me and apologize to Miss Clark obediently. Nothing will happen to you. I promise.” Bobby smiled, making Melody feel nauseous.

She endured her disgust and glared at Bobby coldly. “I’ve said it before. We’ve already apologized for bumping into her. As for me hitting her, it was just self–defense!”

“Young lady, you’re quite stubborn. I like you!” He looked at Pamela and asked, “Miss Clark, you don’t mind her apologizing to you after I tame her, right?”

Pamela was still in so much pain that she could not breathe. Now, she did not know if it was because Bobby’s appearance made her feel so happy that she could not even feel the pain in her arm.

However, she did not think too much about it. She smiled and nodded. “I don’t mind. Thank you for helping me, Mr. Lawrence.”

With that, Pamela’s lips curled into a smug smile. As long as a woman fell into Bobby’s hands, she would most likely be ruined.

She thought, ‘Melody dared to break my hand. Now is the time for her to pay the price! Serves her right!‘

Bobby’s smile did not diminish. “There are too many people here. The young lady wants to save face, so it’s not easy to reprimand her here. Take her to the hotel room upstairs.”

“Yes!” The bodyguards responded and dragged Melody to the elevator.

Zara tried to stop them but was kicked aside by Troy. “Don’t be anxious. We’ll settle the score with you for bumping into my daughter!”

Melody looked at Zara, who was clutching her stomach and lying on the ground. She could not take it anymore and was about to attack when a cold and deep voice sounded. “This place is even more lively than the front.”

As soon as this voice sounded, everyone subconsciously turned around. A tall figure walked over against the light. Troy and Bobby immediately recognized the person as Ken.

Bobby was the first to put on a flattering smile and explained fawningly, “Mr. Swanson, I didn’t expect such a small matter to alarm you. I’m really sorry, I’ll take the troublemaker away now.”

Troy also hurriedly said, “Mr. Swanson, there’s a woman here who broke my daughter’s hand. Fortunately, Mr. Lawrence came forward to seek justice for us. This is my daughter, Pam. Pam. This is Mr. Swanson. Quickly greet him!”

This was Pamela’s first time seeing Ken. She was a little stunned.

Ken was dressed in a black suit today. His buttons were buttoned meticulously to the top. His abstinence and cold temperament instantly mesmerized her.

She had only heard that Ken was a devil who did all kinds of evil and could even cripple his own brother. She did not know that Ken was so handsome.

His well–defined face, deep black eyes, tall nose bridge, and cold lips were all in line with her aesthetic standards.

She thought, ‘He is so handsome… He is a hundred times more handsome than the Zack that I have taken a fancy to at a glance!‘

“Pam? Pam!” It was not until Troy called her for the third time that she suddenly came back to her senses. She blushed and lowered her eyes in embarrassment. “Mr. Swanson, thank you for coming over to help me…”

Ken’s gaze swept across the corridor and finally landed on Melody. When he saw that she was being subdued, his black eyes were instantly filled with frost.

Bobby looked down and saw that Ken was looking straight at Melody. He thought that Ken had the same hobby as him. He could not help but smile and ask in a low voice, “Mr. Swanson is also interested in her? If so, I’ll let you have her first. I’ll take over when you’re tired of her.”

Ken retracted his expression and patted Bobby’s shoulder with a faint smile. “Then I really have to thank you.”

Bobby thought he had guessed correctly and quickly laughed along with Ken.

The next second, Ken’s hand on Bobby’s shoulder suddenly tightened.

Bobby felt a sharp pain in his shoulder. His chubby face instantly turned pale and he screamed in pain.

When Troy and Pamela saw this, they did not understand what was going on.

Ken’s eyes were filled with ruthlessness as he said indifferently to James behind him, “Bobby Lawrence, the executive of Lawrence Entertainment, has humiliated countless artists employed by him at work. The artists could not stand the disturbance and jointly reported him. He is now to be sent to the police station immediately. After the procedure is completed, he will be handed over to the court to be dealt with.”

“Yes!” James glanced sideways and the bodyguards immediately escorted Bobby away. Before Bobby could resist, they took him.

From the other end of the corridor, Bobby’s ugly pleas for mercy could be heard from afar, but they quickly disappeared.

Troy felt that something was wrong and asked with a pale face, “Mr. Swanson, why? Mr. Lawrence is clearly helping us…”

Pamela also nodded. “Mr. Swanson, Melody hit me and broke my hand. Mr. Lawrence didn’t do anything. Are you mistaken?”

Chapter 217

Ken lowered his eyes and sneered. He looked at the two of them with a mile that did not reach his eyes. “Do I need you to decide what’s right when I’m dealing with my own employees?”

“Of course not…” Troy was shocked and quickly waved his hand.

He did not know how Bobby had provoked Ken, but he and Bobby were just ordinary friends. Seeing that Bobby had fallen, he would not offend Ken because of Bobby.

However, regarding his daughter’s broken hand, he believed that Ken would give him face.

Thinking of this, Troy said, “How can we judge your decision? Bobby’s character is bad. You did the right thing! However… I hope Mr. Swanson can give us justice for my daughter.”

Ken raised his eyebrows. “What a coincidence. I’m here for this as well.”

Troy was relieved. Just as he was about to speak, Pamela, who was beside him, spoke first. She pointed at Melody with an uninjured finger and started to complain, “Mr. Swanson, this woman came here tonight by tricking Zack. I didn’t do anything, but she broke my hand! You have to stand up for me!”

Pamela’s eyes were filled with tears. She looked extremely pitiful. Although she was not as beautiful as Mabel, she was the cute type that most men would like.

However, after Pamela tried her best to make herself look even more pitiful, Ken did not even look at her. He walked straight to Melody and wrapped one arm around Melody’s waist. “Miss Clark, you’ve misunderstood. I’m here to look for my female companion. I heard that she was bullied, so I specifically came to take a look.”

As soon as he finished speaking, Pamela’s eyes widened. Her pupils shrank to a point of shock.

She was almost petrified when she saw Ken asking Melody in a low voice, “Are you injured?”

“No.” Melody shook her head naturally. The two of them looked extremely close.

Pamela thought, ‘Is there something wrong with my eyes? Otherwise, why did Ken speak up for Melody, this ugly girl from the countryside, and even hug her waist?‘

“Mr. Swanson…” Pamela rubbed her eyes and confirmed in disbelief, “You said she’s your female companion?”

“Is there a problem?” Ken did not deny it.

Zara, Pamela, Troy, and the others were stunned at the same time. The atmosphere seemed to freeze instantly.

Pamela was unwilling to believe it and said anxiously, “But isn’t she Zack’s girlfriend?”

“Zack’s girlfriend?” Ken narrowed his eyes and looked sideways at Melody. “What happened?”

Melody shrugged and said helplessly, “It’s all a misunderstanding.”

Ken looked at her deeply and turned to look at Troy. “Did you hear that? It’s all a misunderstanding. She’s not anyone’s girlfriend. She’s my female companion.”

At this moment, Pamela was completely speechless. She came late and had no idea that Melody was Ken’s female companion.

Troy was the first to come back to his senses and tried his best to digest this information.

He gritted his teeth and forced a smile. “So this young lady is your female companion. Since we’re all on the same side, let’s not bicker about this small fight between girls. Forget it.”

“Forget it?” Pamela disagreed in her heart. She said, “Dad, she hit me. How can I let it go just like that?”

“This…” Troy was in a difficult position.

Of course, he was unwilling to let it go just like that, but the other party was Ken, A cruel and scheming demon.

Pamela said angrily, “Mr. Swanson! Regardless of whether she’s your female companion or not, it’s a fact that she hit me! You have to deal with this matter fairly!”

Ken said casually, “Is there a possibility that you were beaten up because you deserve it?”

“You…” Pamela choked. She gritted her teeth and said, “She was the one who caused trouble first. I didn’t do anything! Mr. Swanson, did she seduce you? Why are you biased towards her? She really broke my hand. If you don’t believe me, you can call the police and bring me to the hospital for a checkup.”

She really did not understand why the men she admired would rather be close to this ugly woman than to her.

Troy was also angry. Ignoring the fact that the other party was Ken, he said, “Mr. Swanson, since she’s your female companion, we can let her off the hook. However, we don’t want to see you being deceived by a woman! It’s true that she’s your female companion now, but just now, I saw her being very close to Zack. Is such a woman who’s good at pretending really worthy of being your female companion? You have to think carefully.”

Troy did not care about anything else and slandered her. He wanted Ken to deal with her and force her into a dead end.

If Ken did not know about Melody’s relationship with Zack, he might really misunderstand.

Melody said impatiently and coldly, “Mr. Clark, you have to show evidence. I did attack to protect myself, but it was your daughter who attacked first. Besides, are you really sure that your daughter’s hand is broken?”

“This…” Troy looked at Melody’s expression and could not help but hesitate.

He thought, ‘Although this woman is ugly, she is powerless. With her strength, can she really easily break a person’s hand? Could it be that Pam has been acting? After all, this has happened before.

If that was the case, things would be difficult. They had said several times that Pamela’s hand had been broken by Melody.

Troy could not help but confirm with Pamela, “Pam, is your hand really broken? Tell me the truth, I won’t blame you.”

Pamela was about to go crazy. “Dad, why do you believe this woman now? Why would I lie to you? I don’t even dare to move my hand now. I can faint from the pain if I move. Would I lie to you in that case?”

Troy admitted that he understood Pamela. He could feel that she was not lying.

If this wasn’t the Swanson Group’s territory, the truth didn’t matter at all. He could just help his daughter vent her anger.

However, this was the Swanson Group’s territory. Ken was right in front of him, so he could not attack directly. He had to be in the right first so that he could deal with Melody ruthlessly.

Once he was in the right, he would definitely make her pay a heavy price.

Troy turned to look at Ken and said, “Mr. Swanson, you heard it. If it was just a small fight, we would let it go for your sake. But breaking a hand is not a small matter. If you don’t give us an explanation today, we can only call the police to deal with it.”

Before Ken could speak, Melody spoke first. “Then call the police! Once the injury report is out, you’ll know if her hand is broken or not. Mr. Swanson, what do you think?”

Ken glanced at her. Seeing that there was no fear in her eyes and only a bright light, he roughly guessed what was going on and nodded in agreement. “For the sake of fairness, let’s call the police. However, if Miss Clark’s hand is not broken, you will be sued for slandering. When the time comes, you have to pay a price.”

“No problem!” Pamela agreed without thinking. Then, she glared at Melody and said, “I can’t be bothered to argue with you. The truth will be revealed when we go to the hospital for a checkup. At that time, I wonder what you will say! Once I confirm that my hand is really broken, I will definitely pursue this matter.”

Not only did she have to pursue this matter, but she also had to make Melody pay for the pain of her right hand. She wanted to let Melody know the consequences of being a busybody.

Chapter 218

Troy couldn’t wait to call the police and seek justice for his daughter.

He thought, ‘My beloved daughter is not someone that can be bullied by any country bumpkin!‘

Soon, two police cars stopped at the back door of the River Hotel.

Troy was the first to get into the car. Pamela held her injured hand and followed closely behind. Before she got into the car, she did not forget to lower her voice and say harsh words to Melody. “Little bitch, just you wait and see. I’ll see how long you can pretend to be calm! You’ll soon know that lowly people like you and Zara can only be beaten up by me. Don’t think that just because you’re lucky enough to become Mr. Swanson’s female companion, he’ll protect you. A ruthless person like him will only kick you away when things become rough!”

Melody was unperturbed. “I’ll also advise you one last time. Your hand is not broken. Going to the hospital will only slap your own face.”

Pamela sneered. “You’re feeling guilty and scared now, right? I surely have to go to the hospital. See you at the hospital!”

With that, Pamela glared at Melody, opened the car door, and got in.

Melody shrugged. Just as she was about to get into another police car, Zara walked forward worriedly and said, “Miss Fox, it’s all my fault that you got into so much trouble. You should push the responsibility to me. Just say that I broke her hand.”

“Silly girl, why don’t you believe what I said?” Melody brushed Zara’s hair off her forehead and said, “Her hand is really not broken.”

“But…” Zara still did not believe it. She clenched her fists and said, “Let me go to the hospital with you and Mr. Swanson, okay? If something really happens, push the blame on me. This is my fault anyway. You don’t have to suffer for me.”

Melody was about to refuse, but she looked at Ken who was not far away, and then at Zara. She felt that it would be good if Zara was really with Ken.

Zara had a good character. She was much better than Janet.

If she created an opportunity for them, it might really work.

If she really succeeded, as a matchmaker, she felt that Ken would have to help her in the future when she needed him.

With that thought in mind, Melody swallowed her rejection and said, “Alright, come with us then.”

Zara quickly nodded and led the way into the police car.

Melody deliberately took two steps back and stood behind Ken. “Get in the car first.”

Ken looked at her in confusion. “What about you?”

She said, “I’ll go last.”

He looked puzzled as he walked to the front passenger seat and sat down.

The smile on Melody’s face froze. She sighed and thought, ‘No wonder I have never heard of his scandal in my previous life. With this brain of his, it will be strange if he can ever find a girlfriend on his own!’

She shook her head helplessly and sat down beside Zara.

On the way, Zara couldn’t help but glance at Ken from time to time.

The anxious feeling of being with Ken made her forget her nervousness for the time being. Her small face was flushed even with foundation on. Melody smiled and took the initiative to matchmake them. “Ken, this is a celebrity from your company. You should have an impression of her, right? Her name is Zara Wentworth. I’ve seen her movies. Her acting skills are not bad.”

“I see,” Ken replied noncommittally. His voice was cold.

However, even so, Zara’s face instantly turned red. Her blushed face turned into a red apple as she looked at Melody in embarrassment. Melody encouraged her with her eyes. Zara took a deep breath and mustered her courage. “Mr. Swanson, can I… add you on WhatsApp?”

“There’s no need.” Ken refused without thinking, “Contact your agent directly about your work. I’m not in charge of Swanson Universal Entertainment. It’s useless to talk to me.”

Melody’s face darkened.

She thought, ‘How can he say that? No wonder he is single all his life!‘

“Okay…” Zara lowered her head, feeling a little uncomfortable.

However, she also knew that now was not the time to be sad about these things. She quickly perked up and sat upright.

At the same time, in another police car, Troy asked with concern, “How’s your hand now? Is it still very uncomfortable?”

Pamela held her injured hand and did not dare to move. When she heard this, she suddenly realized that her hand did not hurt as much when Melody helped her up.

She thought, ‘Is it because I was looking forward to it too much, or is it because I did not move this injured hand again, or is it because my hand did not feel anything after she broke it? Probably all three.

She didn’t think too much about it and said angrily, “I can’t even feel my broken hand. Of course, I feel terrible. Dad, you have to avenge me. It’s best if you can take this opportunity to kill Melody! I really can’t take this. I have to take revenge!”

Troy only had one child. His heart ached for her and he comforted her repeatedly. “Alright. Don’t be angry. Your hand will hurt again when you move it.”

Pamela asked, “Then tell me, are you going to avenge me or not?”

“Of course I want revenge! There are only two kinds of people in the world who dare to bully my daughter. One is already dead, and the other is about to die. That woman is the latter.” As Troy spoke, he exhorted, “Just be careful of your hand. When we go to the hospital for a checkup and the evidence is conclusive, that woman won’t be able to deny it. Moreover, we’re in a police car. No matter what relationship Ken has with that woman, he can’t help Melody. He can’t use his connections to help a country bumpkin, right? Don’t worry, breaking a hand can send her to prison for at least half a year to a year. She won’t be able to escape!”

Only then did Pamela feel much better. Her mood also became gloomy.

She thought, ‘If I can kill Melody just like that, my broken hand will be worth it!‘

About half an hour later, they arrived at the Silverlake Central Hospital.

Pamela was helped out of the car and accompanied by the police to the orthopedic department for an examination.

“Doctor.” Pamela’s acting skills were surprisingly good today. She said with tears in her eyes, “My hand was broken. Help me take a look and help me write a diagnosis.”

The orthopedic surgeon had seen people who came to the hospital after a fight. Without changing his expression, he gestured for Pamela to sit down and reached out to examine her.

After a round of examination, the doctor looked at the expectant Pamela and then at the expressionless Ken and the others. Question marks appeared in his mind as he muttered to himself in confusion, “This shouldn’t be…”

Pamela asked in confusion, “What shouldn’t be?”

The doctor coughed dryly and said, “Your hand is not broken, and there are no injuries. You can leave now.” “What?” Pamela was instantly shocked. “That’s impossible! Did you make a mistake? Help me check again!” “That’s right!” Troy said, “You must have made a mistake! I want to do an X-ray. Your skills are not good enough!”

The orthopedic surgeon’s expression turned cold. “I’ve been a doctor for almost twenty years. Do you think I can’t figure out if her bones are broken? Her hand is so healthy that she can pick up a bucket of water with one hand. My diagnosis is correct!”

Chapter 219

The doctor had seen patients who were difficult to talk to, but he had never seen anyone doubt that he could not diagnose whether the bones were broken. “If you really don’t believe me, then do an X-ray!”

The doctor couldn’t be bothered to talk nonsense with Troy and Pamela. He directly asked Pamela to take an X-ray.

Pamela wanted to flare up, but she did not want to ruin her image as a lady in front of Ken. She could only grit her teeth and take the list.

She subconsciously used her right hand to catch it. When she reacted, she was shocked to realize that her right hand did not hurt at all.

She thought, “What’s going on here? Could it be that Melody really didn’t break my hand? But I clearly felt that my hand was dislocated at that time and couldn’t even lift it up. I couldn’t be wrong about the feeling of bones being separated. What on earth is going on?‘

Pamela’s face was a little pale, and her heart was instantly in her throat.

However, Troy did not notice anything strange about Pamela. He only thought that this doctor was either not skilled or had been bribed.

However, a doctor could be bribed, but a machine could not fake it. He urged Pamela, “Pam, let’s go and take an X-ray now!”

Pamela panicked. By the time she reacted, she was already standing in front of the X-ray machine.

*Lift your sleeves up and drop your hands.” The doctor’s voice came from the radio in the X-ray room.

Pamela came back to her senses and subconsciously pulled up her sleeve.

In less than two seconds, the radio sounded again. “Done.”

Because this was an injury assessment and their identities were extraordinary, the door of the X-ray room was not closed.

When Troy heard the announcement, he immediately went to the small room in the back.

Melody, Ken, and the others also walked over. Ken was at the front because of his long legs.

Troy deliberately slowed down his footsteps and looked at Melody coldly. “Don’t think that we don’t know that you bribed the doctor. I wondered how you really let us come to the hospital. But don’t be smug. Machines can’t deceive people. Just wait to be jailed!”

Melody did not comment. “Whether you believe it or not, her bones are not broken.”

“Stop quibbling! I’ll see how you cry later! Soon, you’ll know that compared to Bobby, I will be an even worse nightmare for you!”

Melody could not be bothered to argue with Troy. She quickened her pace to catch up with Ken.

A few of them entered the small room one after another. Troy anxiously went forward and asked, “Doctor, are the scans out?”

“The scan will be out in half an hour, but we can see the results on the computer now.”

Troy asked, “Then help me see if my daughter’s hand is dislocated or broken.”

The doctor saw that there were a lot of people and there were police officers around, so he didn’t refuse and directly opened his computer.

The bones of Pamela were clearly visible on X-ray.

The doctor took a serious look and said in confusion, “It’s not injured. Why are you here for an X-ray?”

“This is impossible!” Troy said in disbelief, “Look carefully! My daughter can’t even move her hand. It’s impossible that she’s not injured!”

The doctor pursed his lips impatiently and pulled out a picture. He pointed at the scans on the computer screen and said, “This is the hand of a normal person. This is your daughter’s hand. Look, other than the length and size, what’s the difference? There’s not a trace of crack on it. It’s intact!”

“But… Troy seemed to be choked. The huge fear made his hands tremble.

He subconsciously looked at Pamela and saw that Pamela was twisting her hand with a complicated expression. There was no pain on her face. He asked, “You’re not in pain anymore?”

Pamela said with a pale face, “I don’t know what’s going on either… It doesn’t seem to hurt anymore.”

“Mr. Clark.” The corners of Ken’s lips curled up slightly. He sneered and asked, “Do you need to go to another hospital?”

“This…” Troy panicked and did not dare to look at Ken.

Pamela cried and asked, “Dad, I don’t know what’s going on either… I was in so much pain just now. I even felt my hand break…”

Troy’s expression was ugly, but he did not believe what Pamela said. If it wasn’t for his daughter, he would have left long ago.

Troy gritted his teeth and shamelessly put on an apologetic expression. “Mr. Swanson, my daughter is insensible and told a small lie. Please don’t take it to heart!”

“Little lie?” Ken smiled coldly. “Your lie is indeed very small. Even the police are alarmed.”

Troy’s back stiffened. He turned around and slapped Pamela. “Useless thing! Apologize to Mr. Swanson and Miss Fox!”

Pamela asked, “Dad? You hit me?”

Ken could not be bothered to watch their argument. He said indifferently to the police, “Now that the procedure has been completed, deal with it as you should.”

“Alright, Mr. Swanson.” The police officer nodded and came to Pamela. “You’re suspected of falsely reporting a crime and disturbing our work. You will be detained for five days. Come with us now!”

With that, they forcibly escorted Pamela out.

Seeing that she was really going to be taken to the police station for detention, Pamela could not care less about maintaining her image in front of Ken. As she struggled, she shouted, “Let go of me! Mr. Swanson, don’t forget that my father is a long–term partner of Swanson Universal Entertainment. You’re not the chairman of the Swanson Group yet! Aren’t you afraid that my father will cancel the collaboration with you?”

This was probably how love turned into hatred. She was stunned by Ken’s handsomeness and hated him for detaining her in order to help Melody. Troy’s face darkened. He wanted to stop Pamela from continuing, but it was too late.

Pamela quickly said, “If Mr. Ramon comes back and finds out what you have done, you might not even be able to keep your position as the heir!”

“Shut up! Shut up!” Troy was so anxious that his eyes were red.

However, the police were blocking him. He could not cover Pamela’s mouth at all.

Pamela did not understand why her father was so nervous. She frowned in disdain and reminded him, “Dad, why are you afraid of him? Didn’t you say that he’s only in charge of the Swanson Group for the moment? He’s not even the chairman of the Swanson Group, yet he dares to attack his partners like this. Ken, aren’t you afraid that your father will punish you?”

“Idiot! Shut up!” Troy stomped his feet anxiously.

Ken said with a faint smile, “Troy, your daughter is really amazing. You told her everything about me managing the company. Why didn’t you tell her that the reason why the Clark Fashion Group could become a partner of Swanson Universal Entertainment was because you begged me? Did she say that because you wanted to cancel the collaboration with us?”

Troy felt weak. Suddenly, he bent his knees and knelt down to Ken. “Mr. Swanson, you’re a generous person. This wretched girl is insensible. Don’t lower yourself to her level! The Swanson Group is our company’s life savior. I’ve never forgotten this! Please don’t terminate the contract with us!”

Chapter 220

Pamela felt as if she had been hit by a huge bomb. Her mind instantly went blank.

It turned out that her family was not the sponsor of every celebrity of the Swanson Universal Entertainment. On the contrary, the celebrities that she kept looking down on were actually more important than her father’s company. She was devastated by this piece of news.

Troy kept begging for mercy, but Pamela’s ears could no longer hear anything. Her eyes were lifeless as if her soul had been separated from her body.

Ken pinched his eyebrows impatiently and said indifferently, “Don’t worry, the stupid thing your daughter did has nothing to do with your company. I’m not the kind of person who takes my anger out on others.”

Troy looked down and knew that his daughter’s imprisonment was inevitable. After weighing the pros and cons, he gritted his teeth and took the initiative to say to the police, “Guys, I’m sorry for wasting your time. Take her away and help me educate her. Don’t show mercy!”

The police found Troy’s sudden change of attitude very funny, but they were professionally trained and usually wouldn’t laugh unless they couldn’t help it.

Hence, they said in all seriousness, “We’re civilized law-enforcement officers. We won’t do anything rude. We’ll take her away now.”

After saying that, they dragged Pamela, who was almost in a daze, out, attracting a lot of attention along the way.

Ken looked at Melody. “Alright, let’s go. It’s late. I’ll send you back.”

Melody nodded and did not look at Troy who was still kneeling on the ground. She called out to the dumbfounded Zara and walked out.

After leaving the hospital, Zara looked at Ken, who was walking behind, and couldn’t help but ask in a low voice, “Miss Fox, what’s going on? Aren’t you an assistant? Why have you become his female companion? Also, what’s going on with Zack? I clearly heard Pamela’s hand crack. Why was it fine when the doctor checked it?”

Zara’s mind was filled with questions. She only felt that Melody was an extremely mysterious person. She was certain that Melody was not an ordinary person.

Melody did not explain that she was a doctor and was familiar with all the parts and bones in a person’s body. It was very easy for her to dislocate someone’s hand and place it back together secretly.

She smiled and said, “Just take it that the heavens are helping us. As for the rest, you don’t have to know.”

Zara nodded and looked at Melody with reverence.

When they reached the entrance of the hospital, James happened to drive over.

Melody took the opportunity to say, “This place is close to my house. I can just take the bus back. Ken, help me send Miss Wentworth off. She’s a celebrity, so it’s not convenient for her to take a taxi or a bus.”

On the way out of the hospital, many people had already recognized Zara.

Zara’s face instantly turned red. Knowing that Melody was pulling the strings for her, she could not help but look at Melody gratefully.

However, Ken looked at James and said expressionlessly, “Send Miss Wentworth back. I’ll take another car with Melody.”

“Yes.” James did not dare to object and helped Zara open the car door.

Zara was stunned, but she couldn’t say anything. She waved at Melody and got into the car.

The car quickly drove away, and another car stopped in front of Melody. The driver got out and handed the car key to Ken.

Melody felt that it was a pity. Such a good opportunity to send a beauty home had been ruined by Ken again.

“Get in the car.” Ken did not say anything else. He ordered her to get in the car. His expression did not look good.

Melody thought, ‘What happened? Didn’t the matter resolve perfectly? Why did Ken seem to be angry? Could it be that he felt that I am too good at causing trouble?‘

Melody sat in the passenger seat with a belly full of confusion. Before she could figure out the reason for Ken’s change in attitude, she heard Ken’s angry voice beside her. “Being a matchmaker for your husband and another woman. Melody, you’re really something.”

Melody was stunned. She thought that she was smart but did not think that Ken would notice this at all.

It turned out that he knew everything. Melody felt like she was trapped in a cocoon. She was annoyed at herself for taking the initiative to help someone matchmake.

She braced herself and clasped her hands together. “I’m sorry. I saw that Miss Wentworth was a good person, so I wanted to help her… It’s my fault.”

Ken gave her a sidelong glance and threw his phone onto Melody’s lap. “This must be your work too!” Melody quickly looked down and saw Zara’s message to Ken.

She smiled awkwardly. “I’m sorry, it won’t happen again…”

Ken glared at her and warned, “If there’s a next time, I don’t mind announcing our marriage to the public, in case you introduce other random women to me.”

Melody was shocked and quickly said, “Please don’t! I really won’t matchmaker you again.”

Ken frowned and looked even more displeased. “Is it embarrassing for you to announce your marriage with me to the public?” His voice was cold.

Melody quickly explained, “No… It’s just that you’re handsome, elegant, and rich. I’m afraid that those women who like you will nail me to death after finding out about it.”

When Ken heard this, his expression softened a little. “I’m not as likable as you think. Don’t forget, everyone in Silverlake knows that I’m the devil who crippled Ulric’s legs.”

“But the truth will come out one day,” Melody paused and asked, “Aren’t you going to clear your name?”

He said, “It’s not necessary. It doesn’t matter.”

He didn’t want to make everyone in the world like him. He just wanted to make sure that the people he cared about knew his true colors. Otherwise, it would only attract more trouble. He didn’t care to clarify.

Melody looked at Ken’s indifferent attitude. Her heart was filled with helplessness and confusion.

She thought, ‘He so so out of this world, but I am so eager for revenge. Even if Ken knows that I am capable enough to form an alliance with him, will he still help me take down Ulric? Actually, there is nothing wrong with Ken being like this. If I got closer to him, would I implicate him?’

She wanted to take revenge, but she didn’t want to drag anyone down.

Melody was a little uncertain. When she looked at Ken again, she could not help but feel a little more distant from him.

Ken felt that something was wrong. He frowned slightly and asked, “Why? As my wife, you’re my matchmaker. Can’t I criticize you for that?” “No,” Melody shook her head and said seriously, “Don’t worry, I won’t cause you any trouble in the future.”

When Ken heard this, he felt even more depressed.

He changed the topic and asked, “How’s the situation with Zack?”

At the mention of Zack, Melody regained a little of her smile. “I’ve made some progress. He’s already agreed to give me half an hour to talk to him after he returns from his business trip. But I’m not sure if it will work out by then.”

Ken asked in surprise, “He actually agreed to talk to you?”

She asked, “Yes, what’s wrong? You don’t think I can’t succeed at all, do you?”

Ken did not answer. He only said, “Although he only gave you half an hour, there are many companies and headhunters who want to poach Zack, and no one has ever made him agree to talk to them. It’s already not bad that you can achieve this. If the results are bad, it doesn’t matter. I can make an exception and let you enter Ximber Tech.”

At the end of the day, he did not believe that she could poach Zack.

Prev | Next 

Chapter 211

Seeing that Russell and Mable’s relationship had eased so easily, Yolanda was secretly pleased. She echoed, “Mabel learns all kinds of subjects. There will always be some subjects that she can’t master. I will supervise her. Don’t you still have a meeting at your company? Don’t waste time here.”

Russell raised his wrist to look at the time and said, “Then I’ll go to the office for a meeting. I might be back late.”

Yolanda eagerly helped him get his coat and watched Russell leave.

As soon as Russell left, Yolanda stopped smiling and looked at Melody coldly. “You’re quite lucky, but don’t think that you can get Miss Hanson’s favor just like that.”

Melody said expressionlessly, “Are you done, Yolanda? I’m going to see Grandma.”

Yolanda’s lips twitched. “That’s true. Only Maria cares about you the most here. You need to visit her more often. However… do you really think that victory is in Wilmot’s hands?”

Melody raised her eyelids and said with a faint smile, “I didn’t expect you to be so worried about me. I will definitely work hard to find the mastermind behind this! I believe Yolanda will also want to know who is behind this, right?”

Yolanda’s expression froze. “What are you talking about? I don’t understand!”

Melody patted Yolanda’s shoulder and said in a low voice, “The heavens are watching. There are no secrets in this world.”

Yolanda’s face darkened, but she quickly revealed a mocking smile. “You’re indeed a smart person, but so what? I only need a phone call to make one of your supporters collapse. What about you? Speaking of which… Wilmot can allow you to mess around to sign the bet agreement. Looks like he’s really stupid to believe a fool like you! But it’s too late for you to regret now. The bet has already begun. Let’s see what you’ll do in a week!”

Melody clapped her hands. “Yolanda, you have surely impressed an idiot like me! However, it’s still uncertain if my backer will fall. Why don’t we wait and see?”

Yolanda snorted and said, “Then we’ll see! You’ll know the price of the bet very soon!”

Melody raised her eyebrows. She did not waste any more time with Yolanda and walked towards the backyard.

Yolanda gritted her teeth as she looked at Melody’s back.

She thought, ‘Just you wait! Once Wilmot falls and Maria dies, let’s see if you can still be so arrogant!‘

Thinking about Maria, Yolanda immediately remembered about the poison.

After instructing Mabel to go out for the dance class, she quickly restrained her expression and went upstairs to get the black market’s pass. Then, she took a taxi and left.

As soon as Yolanda went out, Melody received a report from James. “Yolanda is out. Do you need me to follow her?”

The corners of Melody’s lips curled up. She could guess why Yolanda went out.

She said calmly, “Don’t let anyone follow her. It wasn’t easy for the fish to take the bait. Don’t scare it away.”

When James heard this, he recalled the black market stall owner he had seen at the cafe last time and instantly understood what Melody meant.

He held his phone tightly and said, “Miss Fox, I have to remind you that you’re also breaking the black market’s rules, so I hope you can tell Mr. Ken about this yourself.”

At the mention of Ken, Melody couldn’t bring herself to laugh.

She hummed coldly and called Ken after hanging up.

At Serenity Villa, Susan was asking Ken, “Mr. Ken, what do you want to eat for dinner? I’m going out to buy groceries now.”

Ken looked up from the document. “Isn’t there oatmeal left over from lunch? Heat it up. I’ll eat that tonight.”

Susan looked surprised.

She thought, ‘Did something happen to Mr. Ken’s career? Since when did he need to eat leftovers for dinner?‘

However, she did not dare to ask further. After agreeing, she went to heat up the oatmeal.

The next second, Melody called Ken. Ever since Melody left, Ken had felt that something was wrong with Melody, but he could not tell what exactly was wrong. Now that Melody called, he immediately put down the document and answered the call.

“Hello?” His voice was calm and emotionless.

Melody did not beat around the bush and went straight to the point. Then, she asked, “Will I break the black market’s rules?”

After Ken heard this, he said casually, “The offline black market is not important. Just don’t burn it down.”

On the other end of the line, Melody was stunned. She did not expect Ken to agree so readily.

Ken did not hear Melody’s reply. He held his phone tightly and asked, “What? Are you really going to set fire to it?”

“No, no…” Melody quickly said, “That’s not what I meant. Thank you.”

In the next second, the two of them spoke almost at the same time.

Ken asked, “Are you free tonight?”

Melody said, “I got to go.”

Melody paused and asked, “What do you need tonight?”

Ken said. “There’s a dinner party that I need to bring a female companion to.”

Melody subconsciously asked, “Doesn’t Miss Murphy have time?”

After she said this, Ken was silent for two seconds before he said, “She has just returned to the country and is not used to the environment. She will stay at home to rest during recently.”

Melody asked, “Rest?”

She didn’t believe that.

Melody pursed her lips and reminded him, “If Miss Murphy is not well, you can find someone else, right? With my look, if you bring me to the banquet, I’m afraid I’ll become the laughingstock of the Silverlake tomorrow.”

Ken asked, “You have time to help Wilmot make a bet, but you don’t have time to go to a banquet?”

Melody was stunned. “You know?”

Ken did not respond to this and only said, “I will pay you 200 thousand dollars to come with me, and… Zack will be there.”

Melody gritted her teeth. “What time? What do I need to prepare?”

A smile appeared in Ken’s eyes, but when he thought of Wilmot, he could not bring himself to smile. He said in an emotionless tone, “There’s no need to prepare anything. I’ll arrange for clothes, jewelry, and makeup artists to be sent to the Fox family. Just wait at home.”

“Alright,” Melody paused for a moment and said, “There’s no need for a makeup artist. With my face, there’s no difference whether I put on makeup or not.

Ken said, “Alright.”

After the call ended, Melody felt that Ken had too much money to spend.

She hoped that there would be such a banquet for her to attend every day if she was paid 200 thousand dollars every time.

She put away her phone and walked into Maria’s room.

Maria was chatting with Hattie Meyer. When she saw her enter, a smile immediately appeared on her face.

Melody chatted with Maria for a while before checking her condition.

She was much better than before, and her diarrhea was almost completely cured. Now, Melody only needed to slowly clean up the remaining poison and carefully nurse Maria back to health. Soon, Maria would completely recover.

Melody heaved a sigh of relief and said, “Grandma, your illness has mostly recovered. I’ll change the prescription for you tomorrow. After another month of taking it, you can go out with Margaret again.”

Maria nodded happily. Her turbid eyes were covered with a layer of mist. She held Melody’s hand and said, “You saved my life.”

Melody said, “Don’t say such things. If it weren’t for you, where would my father and I come from?”

Hattie wiped her tears and said, “Miss Melody is so nice to you. Mrs. Maria, don’t say such things. You only need to take the medicine and Miss Melody will be happy.”

Melody nodded with a smile.

At this moment, the butler came in to report, “Mrs. Maria, Miss Melody, there’s a group of guests outside. They said that Mr. Swanson called them over. Mr. Russell and Mrs. Yolanda are not at home, what should we do?”

“Mr. Swanson? Which Mr. Swanson?” Maria asked suspiciously.

Melody immediately guessed that they were sent by Ken.

She stood up and said, “Grandma, they are here for me. I’ll get back to work.”

Maria was stunned for a moment. It was not until Melody’s figure disappeared from her sight that she could not help but cover her mouth and laugh.

Hattie asked in confusion, “Mrs. Maria, what are you smiling for?”

Maria smiled and said, “Something good is about to happen to my granddaughter. What do you think I’m smiling for?”

Hattie asked in surprise, “You mean, Miss Melody and Mr. Ulric…”

Chapter 212

“Yes.” Maria nodded and said, “I was still worried that Ulric would not accept Melody. Now, it seems that I was overthinking. That kid has good taste. Melody has such a good personality and good medical skills. Whoever marries her will be honored. When I’m better, I’ll go to the Swanson family again and try to settle their marriage.”

Hattie suddenly thought of Ulric’s legs and could not help but say, “But Mr. Swanson’s legs… I wonder if he will recover.”

“Don’t worry. Melody will definitely think of a way. She can even pull me back from the brink of death, let alone treat Ulric’s legs.” Maria thought for a moment and urged Hattie to help her prepare the medicine. She smiled and said, “I have to recover quickly so that I can go to the Swanson family.”

On the other side, Melody changed into a white dress, making her already slender waist look even more slender.

The stylist kept praising, “Miss Fox, you can even be a supermodel.”

Melody was still self–aware. She did not reply and only asked, “Is everything done?”

“Yes.” The stylist nodded and asked hesitantly, “Are you sure you don’t need makeup?”

Melody said, “There’s no need.”

In her current situation, if she covered the red spots on her face with foundation and revealed her true appearance, it would cause a lot of trouble. There was no need to ruin her current plan for a moment of pride.

In any case, she was attending a banquet that Ken was going to attend. He didn’t mind losing face, so she also didn’t mind.

Not long after, Melody got into the van parked at the entrance.

However, as soon as Melody got into the car, she was surprised to find that Ken was also sitting inside.

“You’ve been waiting for me?” she asked in surprise.

Ken did not even look up. His gaze landed on the tablet and he said emotionlessly, “Tonight’s banquet is a celebration party for Swanson Universal Entertainment. Many partners have been invited. Zack will also attend as his company’s representative.”

Upon hearing Zack’s name, Melody’s eyelids twitched. She understood why Ken wanted to bring her along. This was a chance for her to poach Zack.

She was worried that with her current status, she would not be able to enter Zack’s company. She did not expect Ken to help her.

“Thank you…” Melody thanked him emotionally.

Only then did Ken open his eyes and look at her. He saw Melody in a white haute couture dress like a humble white rose.

The dress was not a famous luxury item. It was designed by an independent designer. Not many people knew about this brand, but the price was not cheaper than those big brands.

It was undeniable that this brand of clothes was fresh and elegant. It was very suitable for Melody.

Ken looked away and said expressionlessly, “I’m helping myself.”

Melody choked. The gratitude in her heart dissipated after hearing that.

The celebration banquet was held at the River Hotel under the Swanson Group. There was a long red carpet at the entrance. The media on both sides raised cameras that were like long guns and cannons and took photos of the people who entered.

However, the van bypassed the main entrance and went straight into the underground garage. The two of them arrived at the banquet from the backstage.

There were no reporters in the venue, but it was still very lively. The people who came were big-shots and celebrities. Everyone was very dazzling.

Even so, as soon as Ken entered the arena, he immediately became the most eye-catching one. In an instant, he was surrounded by a group of businessmen, and Melody was forcefully squeezed out.

A person said, “Mr. Swanson, you’re finally here. We’ve been waiting for you.”

Another person said, “I hope that Mr. Swanson will continue to work with us in the next quarter.”

Someone else said, “Congratulations, Mr. Swanson. The artists under us won many awards again this year. They will definitely win more awards at the end of the year…”

Everyone’s faces were filled with flattery.

Ken talked to them one by one, but Melody clearly saw the indifference in his eyes.

She was about to slip away to look for Zack when Ken suddenly said, “Let me introduce. This is my partner, Melody Fox.”

Melody suddenly stopped in her tracks and looked at Ken in disbelief.

Ken’s hand reached out to her. Everyone’s eyes fell on her.

Their gaze instantly turned from curiosity to shock, and then from shock to horror.

They seemed to wonder if this was a joke.

Melody felt complicated feelings.

She thought, ‘Ken did not want to bother with these people, so he deliberately turned everyone’s attention to me, right? I knew it! How can Ken be so kind as to spend 200 thousand dollars to specifically bring me to look for Zack?”

She took a deep breath and smiled appropriately. After nodding at everyone, she introduced herself. “Hello, everyone. I’m Mr. Swanson’s assistant.”

As soon as she said this, the suspicious gazes immediately dissipated. When they looked at her again, their gazes were much gentler. There were even people who took the initiative to hand over their business cards enthusiastically.

Melody took them one by one. When she turned around, Ken had already disappeared.

She thought, ‘This guy… was indeed using me as a distraction.

After Ken left, this group of people became even more enthusiastic. Melody felt that it was not easy to earn 200 thousand dollars, but she could only brace herself to deal with it.

When everyone finally dispersed, she was about to look for Zack when the popular female star, Zara Wentworth, who had just won an international award, blocked her way. Without any explanation, she stuffed a diamond bracelet into Melody’s hand and asked her quietly with red cheeks, “Miss Fox, I wonder if Ken is single now?”

Melody said, “Sort of… yes.”

“Really?” The blush on Zara’s face instantly became even more obvious. Her tone was filled with surprise as she asked, “Then can you give me his phone number? This might be a little difficult for you, but I definitely won’t betray you, nor will I cause trouble for you and Mr. Swanson… Miss Fox, please.”

The beauty’s face was filled with enthusiasm and pleading. Melody could not refuse.

She weighed the diamond bracelet in her hand and smiled. “How can I reject a beauty’s request?”

As she spoke, she took out her phone and quickly gave Zara Ken’s number.

She thought, ‘Didn’t Ken throw all the trouble just now to me? In that case, I would give him a small trouble in return. In any case, Zara is a famous beauty. No matter how one looks at it, Ken is not a loss!

After taking care of Zara, Melody searched for Zack nonstop. Finally, she found Zack in a corner.

When Melody walked over, Zack was on the phone. He said patiently, “I’m doing this for your own good. You don’t have to do chores here. There are people taking care of your daily needs every day. Why do you have to go back?”

At this point, Zack’s gaze suddenly fell on Melody, who was standing in front of him.

He was surprised for a moment. Then, he frowned and looked at Melody unhappily.

“In short, this matter is not negotiable. Just consider it as if I’m being mean to you.” With that, Zack hung up the phone and turned to leave.

Chapter 213

“Mr. Nelson!” Melody quickly caught up with Zack and stopped in front of him. “Mr. Nelson, can I have a few minutes of your time?”

“No.” Zack walked around her expressionlessly.

Melody persevered and followed behind Zack. As she walked, she said, “You should already know me. I’m indeed a headhunter. I’m really sorry for hiding my identity previously. I’m sorry. I hope you can forgive me this once.”

Zack turned a deaf ear and walked straight to the chair with his name pasted on it and sat down.

Melody was about to sit down when a middle-aged man holding a glass of champagne walked over with a pretty girl.

Melody vaguely felt that the girl looked a little familiar. When the other party approached, her eyelids twitched fiercely.

She thought, ‘Isn’t this Mabel’s friend, Pamela Clark?‘

Fortunately, Pamela did not notice her. She stared straight at Zack.

The middle-aged man was the first to greet Zack. “Mr. Nelson, long time no see.”

“Mr. Clark.” Zack nodded slightly in response.

The man seemed to be used to Zack’s cold attitude. His smile deepened as he introduced the girl beside him. “This is my daughter, Pamela Clark. You’ve met her at the charity gala last time. Pam, haven’t you always wanted to see Mr. Nelson? Why don’t you greet him?”

Pamela blushed and glared at her father. Then, she lowered her head and said shyly, “Hello, Mr. Nelson. My name is Pamela… We went to the same school. I’ve known you for a long time. Can I get your number?”

“I’m sorry,” Zack suddenly glanced at Melody beside him and said apologetically, “My girlfriend is very strict and doesn’t allow me to give my number to other women.”

Melody was stunned. She turned around and saw Pamela looking at her in shock. The shock quickly turned into hatred. The way Pamela looked at her was like a cold blade, wishing she could stare at her to death.

Melody suddenly had a bad feeling.

After the man was surprised, he said awkwardly, “I didn’t know that Mr. Nelson already had a girlfriend. I’m really sorry. Pam, let’s go.”

“I’m not leaving!” Pamela shook off her father’s hand and pointed at Melody’s nose. She asked Zack, “Zack, do you know who she is? She’s the Fox family’s daughter who was raised in the countryside! She’s not worthy of you at all!”

“Raised in the countryside?” When Zack heard this, he looked at Melody in surprise. A layer of coldness immediately covered his eyes. He was also from a poor background and would not discriminate against people of the same background. However, Melody’s mistake was that she should not have used medicine to treat his grandfather without having any medical skills.

He thought, ‘Grandpa actually believes her so much. He even mentioned Melody when I called him just now. He is really deceived by this woman!

Zack’s expression turned even uglier.

When Pamela saw Zack’s face darkened, she was secretly delighted. Then, she said even more brazenly, “Once she returned to Silverlake, she often bullied her sister. She even snatched her sister’s sweetheart and even hung out with some local hooligans. Zack, don’t be fooled by this woman’s sweet words!”

Melody frowned deeply and warned coldly, “Miss Clark, you have to be responsible for your words. Aren’t you afraid that I’ll sue you for defamation?”

Pamela said, “I’m telling the truth. I’m not afraid of you suing me! Didn’t you slander Mabel for stealing the bracelet recently? You obviously stole that bracelet yourself!”

“You…” Melody was about to defend herself when Zack suddenly stood up and said, “I didn’t expect you to be such a person. Let’s not contact each other anymore.”

With that, Zack turned around and left, leaving her with a cold back view.

Melody gritted her teeth. She knew very well that Zack did it on purpose.

She turned to look at the smug Pamela and said coldly, “Do you like being used by others that much?”

Pamela frowned. “What do you mean?”

Melody did not say it explicitly. She only said leisurely, “How pitiful. You are clearly just her pawn, but you spared no effort to help her on all occasions. Mabel would probably find it funny if she knew, right?”

Pamela recalled what happened at the cafe and felt a little uncomfortable.

At that time, although Mabel had explained it to her, this grudge was still there. After Melody mentioned it, she was a little uncertain.

However, Pamela’s brain could not think of a deeper level. As she hesitated, she thought that Melody was trying to change the topic. She scolded with a dark expression, “Don’t sow discord here! Let me tell you, you’re not worthy of Zack at all! If I see you pestering him again, don’t blame me for being rude!”

After Pamela finished speaking, she looked like she could not be bothered with her anymore and turned to leave.

Melody looked at Pamela’s slightly panicked back and pursed her lips.

Pamela clearly did not fully believe her words, but she only needed to plant a seed of doubt in Pamela’s heart. Sooner or later, this seed would take root and grow into a towering tree.

She ignored Pamela and looked around. When she saw that Zack was about to leave, she quickly chased after him.

What Pamela had said today had greatly affected Zack’s impression of Melody. If she did not explain clearly, she would not be able to poach Zack.

However, there were too many people in the venue. She was squeezed by the crowd and finally caught up to Zack who was crossing the road outside.

Zack was on the phone with someone. At this moment, the traffic light on the sidewalk turned red. Zack did not notice at all and continued to make calls as he walked forward. At this moment, a sports car sped over in the direction of Zack.

Melody’s heart tightened. As she ran towards Zack, she shouted, “Zack, be careful!”

Zack turned his head in shock and saw a black spot appear in front of his eyes from the lights of the sports car. He could not see clearly at all.

Before he could react, just as the sports car was about to hit him, suddenly a huge force came from behind his waist. “Bang!” He was knocked to the side of the road by a slender figure, and both of them fell to the ground.

At the same time, the sports car whizzed past, leaving only the exhaust of the car and a cursing voice. “Do you want to die? Why aren’t you checking the road?”

Zack lay on the ground. His heart had never beat so violently before. That was because he had survived a calamity and his adrenaline was soaring.

He looked at the person pressing down on him with lingering fear. He knew that if this person had not appeared, his life would have been in danger.

Thank…” Before he could finish, Zack finally saw who saved him. “You… how…”

“Are you alright?” Melody quickly got up from Zack’s body. After carefully checking his condition, she sighs with relief. “Fortunately, you’re not injured. Hurry up and get up. The road is not safe.”

Chapter 214

Melody reached out to pull Zack up from the ground.

Zack subconsciously avoided Melody’s hand, but he saw that Melody’s palms were bleeding.

Blood was slowly seeping out of her palm. The wound mixed with the sand and gravel on the ground looked very painful.

Zack’s gaze froze for two seconds. He avoided Melody’s hand and stood up indifferently. He asked with an ugly expression, “Are you crazy?”

Melody asked, “What?”

“Don’t you know… Zack took a deep breath and continued, “You might have died with me just now? Is your life not as important as a job?”

Melody was stunned. She suddenly realized that Zack was actually worried about her.

She lowered her eyes and said, “I calculated the distance and speed. Nothing would happen to either of us.”

*Calculated distance and speed? Who do you think you are? Are your eyes a speedometer?” Zack was furious. He did not care if he was hit, but he did not want anything to happen to others because of him, especially Melody, who approached him with a purpose. Moreover, what he hated the most was owing others favors.

“I…” Melody bit her lower lip and apologized without any temper. “I’m sorry.”

You’re really…” Zack searched his mind for a long time but could not find a suitable word to describe her.

In the end, he said coldly, “Don’t think that you can achieve your goal by doing this. the Justalion Group of the Fox family is hopeless. It’s impossible for me to go there.”

Melody asked in shock, “Do you think I’m trying to poach you to the Justalion Group?”

Zack frowned and asked her back, “Isn’t that so?”

“No,” Melody quickly said, “I’m not working for the Justalion Group. Can you give me half an hour? Just half an hour!”

Zack looked at her with a complicated expression. In the end, he sighed and said, “I’ve never seen someone as difficult to deal with as you!”

Melody was overjoyed. She knew that she had a chance.

Sure enough, in the next second, Zack said coldly, “I have an urgent business trip today. Come to my company to look for me in a week.”

She was overjoyed and almost jumped up. “Alright! I’ll look for you in a week!”

Zack pouted. “Also, don’t harass my grandfather anymore since you don’t know medicine. If anything happens to him, you will not be able to repay me no matter what.”

“I know medicine!” Melody explained, “I’m a doctor at Herbathrive. If you don’t believe me, you can go to Herbathrive to investigate. I did hide a lot of things from you and Ford, but I didn’t lie about treating him. If Ford doesn’t continue to receive my treatment, it will only be more troublesome if the back pain flares up again.”

“Enough. I don’t want to listen to your nonsense anymore. You said it yourself. I only will give you half an hour. It’s my business whether I agree or not. I still have something on. Don’t follow me anymore!” After Zack finished speaking, he stopped looking at her and walked towards the parking lot opposite.

Melody only looked away when she saw Zack’s car drive out of the parking lot and disappear into the traffic.

She clenched her fists and cheered happily to herself. Then, she patted the dust off her body and returned to the venue through the side door with a smile.

She could finish dealing with Wilmot’s matters in a week before looking for Zack.

She felt lucky today, although she had almost been killed by a car. If she had calculated the time and distance wrongly, the outcome would have been extremely tragic. Fortunately, the result was good. She had to tell Ken the good news as soon as possible.

However, after looking around, she did not see Ken at all. In addition, her phone was out of battery, so she could not contact Ken. Helpless, she could only go to the bathroom to wash her wound.

However, when she reached the corridor leading to the bathroom, she saw Pamela scolding a girl.

Melody took a closer look and realized the girl was Zara, who had asked her for Ken’s contact information with a red face.

Pamela placed her hands on her hips and pointed at Zara’s nose as she cursed “Are you blind? How dare you splash red wine on me? Do you want to die? Don’t tell me you really think you can fly up the social ladder just because you won an award? Let me tell you, actors will always be actors You’re just tools and playthings for our investors. Do you believe that I can ban you with a word?”

The girl beside Pamela chimed in, “Pam, why are you so angry with this kind of life? I bet she has slept with many sugar daddies to get that award. I feel dirtied by being close to this kind of woman.”

Pamela snorted. “That’s true. She was just an insignificant person, but she suddenly became famous. I don’t know how many tricks she used in bed People like you better tuck your tail between your legs. Otherwise, when the news gets out one day, you’ll suffer?

Her friend said, “She’s not afraid of being exposed. At most, she’ll retire from the entertainment industry and become a mistress of some rich man.

Each of their words was harsher than the last.

Zara’s face was pale as she stared helplessly at her toes. She bit her lip and did not dare to retort.

The girl beside Pamela suddenly snatched Zara’s phone away and said, “I wonder if you have any shocking photos stored in your phone? I’ll help you share them with your fans. Your fans must like to see them!”

“Give me back my phone…” Zara was anxious and went forward to snatch the phone.

However, Pamela stepped on Zara’s foot.

She was wearing five-inch high heels today. With this step, Zara immediately cried out in surprise and squatted down in pain.

At this moment, the girl suddenly said in surprise, “Pam. She has Mr. Swanson’s number on her phone?

“What?” Pamela looked at the phone screen in shock. She saw that Zara had sent a text message to Ken. [Mr. Swanson, I’m Zara. Do you remember me?]

Pamela narrowed her eyes. “You dare to hook up with Mr. Swanson? Would a person like him fall for someone as dirty as you Why don’t you take a look in the mirror and see how cheap you are!*

Zara endured the pain and stood up, stubbornly saying, “Give me back my phone?”

“I won’t return it. What can you do? Why don’t you get Mr. Swanson to get it back for you? The two girls giggled, and their crisp laughter sounded especially ear–piercing.

“Pamela, that’s enough.” Melody could not take it anymore and walked forward.

Initially, she did not want to meddle in other people’s business. After all, she was not familiar with Zara at all. However, when she saw that Pamela was going overboard, she really could not convince herself to ignore Pamela.

She had come for revenge. She would do anything for revenge, but that didn’t mean she could completely let go of her humanity.

As soon as Melody finished speaking, the three of them, including Zara, immediately looked at Melody.

Astonished, Zara’s eyes immediately turned red. “Miss Fox…

Seeing that it was Melody, the smile on Pamela’s face instantly turned cold. “Why is it you again? I advise you not to be a busybody here?

Melody raised her head slightly and asked expressionlessly, “What if I insist on interfering?

Chapter 215

Pamela laughed mischievously and said in an extremely contemptuous manner, “Melody, I’ve already given you a chance. Do you have to ask for trouble today?”

The girl beside her reminded Melody mockingly, “Hey, ugly freak, you’ve probably watched too many television dramas, right? Do you know who you’re trying to be a hero in front of? Pam’s father is the biggest partner of Swanson Universal Entertainment. Many celebrities from Swanson Universal Entertainment have accepted their clothing advertisements. Her father is attending as a VIP guest tonight. I advise you not to better apologize to Pam and leave immediately if you don’t want to be kicked out!”

Zara’s eyes flashed as she said to Melody gratefully, “Miss Fox, thank you, but I don’t want to cause you trouble. I accidentally bumped into Miss Clark. It’s all my fault. You don’t have to worry about me. Hurry up and leave…”

She did not want to implicate Melody. Even if she knew that once Melody left, her outcome would definitely be tragic.

Pamela was famous for being rude and unreasonable in the industry. A celebrity accidentally provoked Pamela last time and had no choice but to leave the industry because of serious depression.

“Did you hear that?” Pamela raised her chin and grabbed Zara’s collar. She patted Zara’s face with her other hand and said, “At least you know your place!”

As Pamela spoke, she looked at Melody and said, “This actress has admitted that it’s her fault. What can you say now? I’ll give you one last chance. Get lost before I beat you up too!”

Melody narrowed her eyes coldly. “I’ll return these words to you. If you don’t let go of her, I’ll beat the both of you up together!”

“Beat me?” Pamela gritted her teeth. Melody’s ungratefulness made her very angry.

She thought, ‘What right does this country bumpkin have to speak to me like this?‘

“I must teach you a lesson on behalf of Mabel today!” Pamela was furious. She raised her hand to slap Melody.

However, just as her hand was about to touch Melody’s face, Melody, who had been standing in front of her a second ago, suddenly disappeared and quickly dodged her slap.

Pamela used too much strength and staggered forward.

“Bitch!” Pamela’s eyes were red with anger. She clawed at Melody’s face.

She thought, ‘In any case, she is ugly. If her face is scratched by me, it will be equivalent to having plastic surgery!

However, this time, Melody did not dodge. She quickly grabbed Pamela’s wrist in midair. With a gentle turn of her hand, Pamela heard a crack as the bones were dislocated.

For a moment, she felt her vision go dark and she almost fainted from the pain.

Pamela cried out in pain. Then, she screamed, “Melody! You bitch!”

However, before Pamela could react, Melody immediately pressed her to the ground with a swift grappling hand. “I was talking to you nicely, but you wouldn’t listen, right? Apologize to her now!”

“In your dreams!” As soon as Pamela finished speaking, she felt Melody’s strength suddenly increase. She immediately could not move. “Apologize!” Melody ordered in a more serious tone.

Pamela subconsciously wanted to break free from Melody’s grip, but just as she moved, a sharp pain came from her right arm again. She could not exert any strength at all.

“You, you…” Pamela looked up at Melody in shock. “You broke my hand?”

“Miss Clark, you’re really precious. I only used a little strength and your hand broke. I’m really sorry.” Melody’s lips curled into a smile. That smile was like a ghost from hell that sent chills down one’s spine.

The girl beside Pamela was so frightened that her face turned pale. She picked up her skirt and ran.

Melody glanced at the girl’s back and did not take it to heart. She bent down and said, “I’ve already apologized to you. What do you think should happen next?”

Pamela was humiliated and terrified. Melody was too terrifying. Helpless, she could only grit her teeth and squeeze out three words. “I’m sorry…”

Only then did Melody let go of Pamela and turn to look at the stunned Zara. “Miss Wentworth, she has apologized. You can accept it or not, it’s up to you.

Only then did Zara come back to her senses. She picked up her phone from the ground and said timidly, “Miss Fox, thank you so much for today. Let go of her quickly. She’s someone we can’t afford to offend. You’re just an assistant, and I… I’m just an actress. You should not offend her for me. I really don’t want to implicate you.”

“Don’t worry, I promise. You and I will be fine.” Melody gently squeezed Zara’s hand, wanting her not to worry.

Zara’s face was slightly red as she thanked her seriously, “Thank you so much, Miss Fox…”

At this moment, Pamela, who did not have the strength to stand up, suddenly sneered and said, “Have you put on enough act of your friendship? My father is here. Let’s see how you clean up this mess! You will definitely regret your actions today!”

Zara was shocked and quickly looked behind Melody.

“It’s over…” She grabbed Melody’s hand nervously and said, “Mr. Clark is here. Miss Fox, hurry up and leave!”

Melody shook her head. “It’s too late.”

She turned around and saw the girl who had escaped just now walking over aggressively with Pamela’s father and a group of people.

Pamela immediately changed her expression. She sat on the ground and cried in pain, “Dad! She broke my hand!”

Pamela’s father, Troy Clark, thought that it was just a casual fight between girls. When he heard Pamela’s words, he was shocked. His entire face quickly darkened as he quickened his pace.

The corners of Melody’s lips curled up. She walked over to Pamela in a few steps. As she helped her up, she secretly held Pamela’s hand.

Pamela screamed again. She pushed Melody away and cried, “Dad! She wants to break my other hand!”

At this moment, Troy finally brought a group of people to the three of them. “It’s you?”

Troy recognized Melody, and a stunned expression flashed across his face.

He frowned and looked away. He carefully helped Pamela up and asked, “What’s going on? Why are you arguing with Zack’s girlfriend? Didn’t I tell you not to contact them anymore?”

He didn’t want to see his daughter pursue a man with a girlfriend and become a mistress.

“It’s not like that!” Pamela cried, “They deliberately looked for trouble and bumped into me. They splashed red wine on me and she even broke my hand just now. I can’t raise my hand at all now!”

The girl who went to get help quickly echoed, “Mr. Clark, I can testify that what Pam said is true. I saw this woman break Pam’s hand with my own eyes.”

“What?” Troy widened his eyes in shock and asked, “Did she really break your hand?”

Pamela said, “It’s true! It hurts, Dad!”

Troy looked at his daughter’s pitiful look and was instantly furious. He pointed at Melody’s nose and scolded, “Who do you think you are? Do you think you can hit my daughter just because you have Zack’s support? Are you tired of living? Hurry up and apologize to my daughter!”

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Chapter 206 – Scheme

The questions asked by the media were tricky and mean. They directly slandered Wilmot for accusing Silk Beauty Cosmetics.

Wilmot opened his mouth and was about to speak when Jessica came up to him again and questioned him at the top of her lungs. “Wilmot, what right do you have to say that All–Purpose Water, whom Silk Beauty painstakingly researched and created, was the result of stealing your formula? Aren’t you afraid of being struck by lightning for slandering me like this?”

Upon hearing this, even someone as calm as Wilmot was so agitated that blue veins popped out on his forehead. “Jessica, don’t you have any shame?”

Jessica asked. “I’m shameless? If I hadn’t come over to demand an explanation, you’d have turned me into a black sheep! You have to be responsible for your words and actions. Because of your accusations, our brand’s image has been completely tarnished. Is this your goal? Are you shameless?”

“You… Wilmot clenched his fists in anger.

When Jessica saw Wilmot’s actions, she raised her chin and said, “Your lie has been exposed. Are you going to hit me? There are so many people here. Do you dare to hit me?”

Wilmot took a deep breath and tried his best to suppress his anger.

When the other executives of Icy Clear Cosmetics saw this, they were also furious and hurriedly went forward. Jessica, you know best who’s the shameless one!”

A person said. “You poached our staff and took away our formula. Now, you’re bringing a group of media outlets to slander our chairman. Aren’t you afraid of retribution?”

Someone else asked, “Get that traitor to come out and speak.“”

Jessica sneered in her heart, but on the surface, she looked innocent. Traitor, Could it be that all the employees who left your company are traitors? Isn’t the Icy Clear Cosmetics too unreasonable?”

Jessica, you… Seeing that the higher-ups were about to lose control of their emotions, Wilmot quickly turned his head and signaled the people behind him not to be rash.

After waiting for his subordinates to quiet down, Wilmot looked up at Jessica. “What the hell do you want?”

Jessica pursed her lips and said. “I don’t want to do anything. I just want to take back what I deserve. The icy Clear Cosmetics caused Silk Beauty to suffer huge losses and slander. You have to compensate us for all our losses!”

Wilmot frowned. “Compensation Then what about our losses?”

Jessica said righteously. “Your losses were caused by yourselves. The Golden Water series has been launched for so long, but you’ve been stagnant and haven’t developed any new product. Without us, the market you have would have been snatched away by others sooner or later. How should others compensate you?”

There were no new products after Golden Water, which was indeed a weakness of Icy Clear Cosmetics.

Wilmot calmed himself down. He wanted to know what Jessica’s motive was today. He calmed down and asked, “What do you want?”

Jessica said, “Very easy! I’m interested in acquiring Icy Clear Cosmetics. As long as you agree to the acquisition, I can let bygones be bygones and promise you the position of the company’s executive.”

Wilmot said, “Impossible!”

Jessica was not surprised by Wilmor’s attitude. She raised her eyebrows and said. “You can disagree with the acquisition, but I can also sue you for defamation.”

As she spoke, she lowered her voice and said in a voice that only the two of them could hear. “Wilmot, wake up. Our All–Purpose Water has already been distributed throughout the country. The longer it drags on, the less valuable the ley Clear Cosmetics will be. If you agree to me now, I can even give you some share of the company.”

Wilmor said, “In your your dreams!”

Jessica’s expression was ugly. “Wilmot, you are asking for trouble.”

At this moment, a cold voice sounded. “Who said Icy Clear Cosmetics doesn’t have new products?”

Everyone subconsciously looked in the direction of the voice and saw an ugly girl with red spots on her face walking over with a faint smile.

She was wearing plain clothes, but her aura made people not dare to look at her directly. A person asked. “Who is this woman?”

Another person said, “The kid behind her seems to be Wilmor’s son.”

Someone else asked, “Could she be Wilmot’s wife?”

Amidst the discussion, Jessica said mockingly, “Wilmot, so you like this kind of woman now! I’ve investigated her. She’s a piece of trash that the Fox family raised in the countryside. At this time, you actually want a piece of trash to speak up for you!”

Wilmot lowered his voice and warned. “Jessica, I’m not the kind of person who doesn’t hit women.

When Jessica saw the viciousness on Wilmot’s face, she could not help but shut her mouth in fear.

“Melody” Wilmot almost came forward. After instructing his assistant to take Shane away, he lowered his voice and said, “The media is here. Leave quickly, the Fox family is already a headache for you. Don’t get involved in this mess lest you get implicated.”

“Don’t worry about me. Melody gave Wilmot a reassuring look and said. “You’ve helped me many times. This time, it’s my turn to help you. But you have to trust me, okay?”

Wilmot hesitated for a moment. Before he could think it through. Melody had already walked up to Jessica. “Miss Summers, we meet again. You’re really impressive. You always bring so many people with you every time we meet.”

Jessica sneered and said nonchalantly, “What does this situation have to do with a country bumpkin like you? It’s better for you to stay at home and take care of your child. Don’t come out and scare people”

Melody’s expression did not change, but the smile on her face became even brighter.

She faced Jessica’s mock calmly and said lightly. I just heard you say that Icy Clear Cosmetics doesn’t have any new products. Didn’t the person you tried so hard to poach tell you that our new products are being developed and will be on the market soon?

Jessica’s face stiffened. “What nonsense are you talking about? That’s impossible!”

Melody asked, “Why are you so sure, Miss Sumners? Could it be that you know what’s going on in the R&D department of Icy Clear Cosmetics?”

Jessica gritted her teeth. “Shut up!”

Melody said, “Miss Summers, don’t be angry. I want to make a bet with you. The stakes are our respective companies. I wonder if you dare?”

As soon as she said this, the higher-ups of Jessica’s company and Wilmor’s company started discussing.

Especially Wilmor’s staff, with Leo as the leader, they all whispered in Wilmot’s ear. “Wilmot, who is this person? Why is she betting on the future of our company?“.

Another person asked, “Chairman, did you arrange this!”

Someone else asked. “Is this your stalling tactic? Otherwise, it’s too much nonsense. Where would we get a new product…

Wilmot’s eyes were also filled with surprise. He looked deeply at Melody and remembered that Melody wanted him to trust her. He suddenly gritted his teeth and said. This is my arrangement. Just support it.”

With Wilmot’s words, the higher-ups of Icy Clear Cosmetics calmed down a little.

Melody looked at Jessica and smiled. “Why aren’t you saying anything. Miss Summers? Are you afraid to bet?“

Jessica was enraged by Melody. “How do you want to bet?”

Melody smiled faintly and said. “Very easy. Compare our new product to your All–Purpose Water. If the experts think that our new product is more effective and harmless than All–Purpose Water, please give up the position of Silk Beauty Cosmetics’s chairman.”

Upon hearing this, Jessica’s mind raced.

She thought. Henry, whom I had poached, had just left Icy Clear Cosmetics not long ago. He had never mentioned anything about a new product. This little time is not enough for Icy Clear Cosmetics to develop a new product. With just this village girl from the countryside and Wilmot’s research and development team, they need at least a couple of years to come up with a new product. This ugly woman must have scared me on purpose to embarrass me in front of the media. But I will not fall for it! This woman is too stupid. She actually uses such a huge bet to bet with me. She is really an idiot. Isn’t she taking the initiative to give Icy Clear Cosmetics to me for free? No wonder the Fox family didn’t want this idiot. She is so stupid.

Thinking that she would definitely win, Jessica agreed without hesitation. “Alright, so be it. When the time comes, I’ll invite all the famous experts and various beauty review bloggers from Halcyon. If you lose or can’t produce any new products at all, don’t regret your decision today!

Chapter 207

When Melody saw that Jessica agreed to the bet, she sneered in her heart and said calmly. “No problem. Let’s set the time to be in a week.

Jessica asked. “Sure! But how do I know what you say will count?“

Melody looked at Wilmot. Wilmot stepped forward at the right time. “I will be responsible for her actions.”

Jessica laughed in her heart at Wilmot’s poor taste. She felt that he was blinded by lust, but she smiled and said. “In that case, let’s write a contract.”

She was sure to win this bet. She could not give this idiot and Icy Clear Cosmetics a chance to go back on their word.

“Sure.” Wilmot nodded and called the company’s legal department to write down the contract.

Melody said at the right time, “Miss Summers, you don’t mind if I add another bet, right! If we win, I hope you can return the person you poached from us back to us.”

Jessica thought that Icy Clear Cosmetics would definitely lose, so she agreed without thinking. “Sure! However, you have to show your new product. It doesn’t count if you ended up taking Golden Water.”

Melody said, “Don’t worry, Miss Summers. Aren’t you going to hire experts! Both of us can provide the formula and let the experts verify that this is our new product. With the experts around, no one can cheat”

At this moment. Jessica looked at Melody like looking at a fool. She suppressed the ecstasy in her heart and nodded. “Then, let’s call it a day. See you in a week!”

With that, Jessica swaggered away with her staff. A week would soon pass. She was looking forward to the day she became the chairman of Icy Clear Cosmetics. When that day came, she would definitely treat Melody to a good meal to thank her for giving her Icy Clear Cosmetics for free. After Jessica left, the reporters also dispersed and quickly issued press releases. [lcy Clear Cosmetics and Silk Beauty Cosmetics signed a betting agreement. A week later, they will take their new products for a competition.]
Another reporter wrote: [Silk Beauty sued Icy Clear for defamation. The chairman of Icy Clear guiltily proposed a bet.]

Every article was biased towards Jessica As soon as the news was released, it immediately made the headlines.

Most of the netizens were on Jessica’s side. Only a few firmly believed that Icy Clear Cosmetics was telling the truth and would continue to support Icy Clear Cosmetics’s product.

The two sides were in a heated argument. There were also loyal customers of Icy Clear Cosmetics scolding Melody. It was a hot topic on the Internet.

At the same time, as soon as Jessica got into the car, a middle-aged man hurriedly pointed at the news on the phone screen and asked, “Miss Summers, it says here that you’re betting with me as a bargaining chip? If you return me to Icy Clear Cosmetics, they’ll tear me apart.”

Jessica looked at the man calmly. “Henry, are you blind? Can’t you see that the other bet is my position as the chairman? I’ve already staked myself. What are you afraid of? Besides, how long have you been in my company! Don’t you know if they can produce new products?”

Only then did Henry Davidson feel less apprehensive. However, a faint sense of uneasiness still surrounded him.

He let out a sigh. While Jessica wasn’t paying attention, he texted Yolanda and reported what happened to her.

He sent a message: [Mrs. Fox, I’ve put everything on the line for my son. When can he join the Swanson Group!]

On the other end, Yolanda was on her way back to the Fox family. After reading the news, she was shocked that Melody was so arrogant. But this was a good thing for her Icy Clear would belong to Jessica soon, and Melody would lose a lot of support.

Yolanda replied in a good mood: [Don’t worry, it won’t take long. My daughter is going to be one of the owners of the Swanson Group in the future. Isn’t it easy for your son to enter the Swanson Group! If you do your job well, you will definitely get paid.]

After sending the message, Yolanda pretended to be worried and said to Russell, “Russell, bad news, Melody is in trouble again…

On the other side, when Henry saw the reply, he finally felt relieved.

At this moment, at the entrance of Icy Clear Cosmetics, Leo questioned Wilmot with a dissatisfied expression, “Didn’t you say that it was a stalling tactic? Why did you really sign a contract with them? It has your signature and fingerprint on it. If we can’t produce a new product, are you really going to hand the company over?”

Wilmot was about to speak when Melody spoke first. “Sir, don’t worry. I’ll finish the formula for the new product very soon. Coupled with the time needed to develop the product, one week is enough”

Leo asked, “What new product? Where did you come from! Do you know that because of your nonsense just now, Icy Clear Cosmetics will be taken over by Jessica soon!”

Leo was so angry that his entire face was trembling. He pointed at Wilmot and scolded, “Dad really shouldn’t have handed the company to you back then.

The higher-ups also expressed their dissatisfaction.

A person said. “Even if this is the last straw, we can’t do it like this…….-

Another person said, “It’s great now. We don’t have to wait for Silk Beauty to snatch our market. We’ve already given her the company!”

Someone else asked, “Who is this woman‘ Could she be a spy sent by Silk Beauty Cosmetics?”

The group of people looked at Melody even more unkindly.

Wilmot took a step forward and stood in front of Melody. I invited her. I believe that she can produce a new product. If she really loses to Silk Beauty Cosmetics. I’m willing to take full responsibility!”

“You…” Leo opened his mouth and wanted to scold Wilmot, but he swallowed his words.

If Wilmot lost his power just like that, it would be a good thing for him.

In any case, he was not the one who would lose his position as the chairman. Perhaps he could still benefit from this whole thing.

Thinking of this, Leo did not say anything else. He glared at Melody and turned to leave.

After everyone left. Melody said. “Wilmot, don’t worry. I won’t let you lose. Aren’t you looking for evidence that they stole Golden Water’s formula? The day of the competition is the best opportunity to do it.”

Wilmot nodded but hesitated.

Golden Water’s development took a full five years and cost his father a lot of effort. He knew very well how difficult it was to surpass Golden Water’s formula. The All–Purpose Water they were competing against was using the Golden Warer’s formula. He wondered if Melody could do it.

He wasn’t sure, but he couldn’t ask it. He could only close his eyes and take a gamble. At most, he would lose all his savings to make up for this deficit.

Wilmot took a deep breath and said, “I’ll arrange everything else, but you only have a week to develop new products. Let me know if you need anything.

Melody said, “Alright, I don’t have any equipment at home. I’ll start working in your R&D department tomorrow.

“Okay…” Wilmot nodded with a complicated expression.

At that moment, Melody’s phone rang… She looked down and saw that it was Russell. “Hello, Dad?“

As soon as she picked up the call, she heard Russell’s angry voice. “Get back here right now!

Chapter 208

Hearing Russell’s tone, Melody immediately guessed that Russell knew what she had just done.

Her expression darkened slightly as she said to Wilmot, “I have to go home. I’ll come over tomorrow morning.”

Wilmot said, “Alright! if Russell makes things difficult for you, call me. I’ll help you explain.”

Melody said. “Don’t worry about me. Calm your staff down first. I don’t think they’re in a good mood. Also, we need to make preparations on the day of the competition. It has to be foolproof.

Melody gave a few reminders before taking a taxi and leaving for the Fox villa. Soon, she arrived.

The door was half open, and Russell’s praise came from inside. “Mabel, you did very well! If it weren’t for you today, things wouldn’t have gone so smoothly. You must keep a good relationship with Mr. Swanson. I have high hopes for you. Don’t disappoint me.

Silverlake had two Mr. Swansons in total. Only Ulric could be related to Mabel.

Melody recalled the bodyguard’s report that Mabel had gone to look for Ulric today. A mocking cold glint flashed across her eyes.

Mabel said shyly, “Don’t worry, Dad, I will. It’s just that about the bracelet, it really wasn’t me…

Russell said. “Alright, I didn’t take that matter to heart. The matter has been resolved. Don’t mention it again in the future. Prepare for the competition in two months. Getting first place is the most important thing. Other than maintaining a good relationship with Ulric and preparing for the competition, you don’t need to care about anything else.”

The mockery in Melody’s eyes intensified.

She thought: Mabel had caused such a huge drama. Does Russell not take it to heart at all? If it were me, I would probably have been beaten half to death by Russell and chased out.

As expected, she still could not shake Mabel’s position in Russell’s heart. It would be a lie to say that she was not disappointed. However, she was not in a hurry: She would take things one step at a time. She would slowly destroy Russell’s preference for Mabel.

She was helping Wilmot and herself by making that bet. Once she succeeded, she would become famous in Silverlake and even Halcyon.

In the living room. Russell and Mable looked to be in a harmonious atmosphere.

“Dad” Melody walked in at an inappropriate time.

When Russell saw her, his heart skipped a beat, however, when he thought of what had happened a few times in the past and Ken’s protection of Melody, he tried his best to suppress his anger and asked with a cold expression, “Yolanda told me that you got into trouble, right?”

Before Melody could speak, Yolanda spoke first. Hussell, don’t be anxious. The news I saw might not be true. Melody, you didn’t help Silk Beauty Cosmetics and Icy Clear Cosmetics make a bet right?”

Melody did not even look at Yolanda. She met Russell’s gaze and said, “Dad. I didn’t cause any trouble. The chairman of Icy Clear Cosmetics is my friend. If he’s in trouble, I have to help him.

“In other words, you really got involved in this mess?” The anger in Russell’s eyes intensified.

Yolanda spoke before Melody could. “Melody, I didn’t expect what the news said to be true. You’re too foolish! If the bet fails, who will compensate Icy Clear Cosmetics for the losses! If something happens, the Fox family will be the unlucky one! How can you be so rash?”

Mabel also fanned the flames. “Melody, we all know that your medical skills are very good, but having medical skills doesn’t mean that you can develop beauty products. Even if you want to prove yourself, you don’t have to use such an extreme method.”

Russell was so angry that the veins on his forehead were throbbing. “You just always have to get this family in trouble, right? What did I tell you? As long as you behave yourself, I won’t make you return to the countryside. But what did you do?

Melody said calmly, “Dad, don’t worry. If the bet fails, I’ll take responsibility alone. I definitely won’t implicate you?

“Do you know what this bet means? Are you trying to anger me to death?” Russell stomped his feet angrily, wishing he could slap Melody again. Melody’s gaze was cold. “If you’re afraid that I’ll implicate the Fox family, I can write an agreement. I’ll bear the consequences of the bet alone.”

Russell looked at Melody’s cold eyes. He did not know what to say, but he could not vent the anger in his heart. This feeling made him even more depressed.

His eyelids twitched and he said, “Since you insist on bearing the responsibility alone, in order to protect our family, write a note. Whether the bet succeeds or not, it has nothing to do with us.”

Melody pursed her lips mockingly. “Sure.”

The butler immediately handed her a pen and paper. She wrote the note expressionlessly and handed it to Russell. Only then did Russell calm down.

At this moment, a servant rushed in to report, “Mr. Russell, Mrs. Yolanda, a guest called Cheryl Hanson is here.”

“Miss Hanson!” Mabel asked in surprise, “Dad, Mom, didn’t you go look for her today!

Why is she here!”

Mabel was afraid that there would be a change in the matter of her regaining her qualification to participate in the competition. Her expression immediately became nervous.

Yolanda reminded her in a low voice, “While your father spoke up for you, he also signed up for Melody. She’s here to verify Melody’s qualifications.”

Mabel heaved a sigh of relief. At the same time, her lips curved into a mocking smile.

She thought, Melody actually wanted to participate in the Best Celebrity competition. She is surely going to embarrass herself!

When Russell heard that Cheryl had arrived, he was secretly vexed. He thought, Why was 1 so muddle-headed back then! I actually helped Melody get a spot.

However, now that she was already here, he could not let her go back directly. He could only instruct the servant, Invite Miss Hanson in, and prepare coffee for her.”

The servant said, “Yes, Mr. Russell”

Soon, Cheryl entered under the butler’s lead. Melody subconsciously looked at Cheryl and vaguely felt that this person looked a little familiar. Then, she looked up and remembered who it was.

In her previous life. Cheryl had once seen her oil painting and wanted to become her disciple. However, she had been busy helping Ulric to get to the top, so she had rejected her.

She did not expect Cheryl to be the judge of this competition. She found it to be a big coincidence.

Russell was all smiles as he stepped forward respectfully. “Miss Hanson, I’m sorry to have troubled you to come all the way here.”

“It’s fine.” Cheryl waved her hand nonchalantly. “We also hope to absorb more fresh blood to participate in the competition. Only then will the competition be interesting”

After saying that, she looked around the living room and asked in confusion. “Is your eldest daughter not at home?”

Cheryl had seen Melody, but she didn’t think that this terrifyingly ugly girl was Russell’s daughter, so she subconsciously ignored her.

Russell also realized this, and his expression could not help but become awkward.

He covered his nose and coughed. He looked at Melody and said, “Melody, why aren’t you coming over to greet Miss Hanson?”

Melody knew that Cheryl was an upright person and had a good impression of her, so she quickly stepped forward and greeted her politely. “Hello, Miss Hansog. My name is Melody Fox. You can call me Melody.

Chapter 209

The moment Melody walked forward. Cheryl, who had been expressionless since she entered, suddenly widened her eyes in disbelief.

She thought, “This girl who looks scary is actually Russell’s eldest daughter!

Cheryl could not accept this news at all. The corners of her mouth twitched twice as she turned to ask Russell. “Mr. Fox, are you sure you’re not joking with me?

Russell felt even more awkward. He regretted helping Melody get this qualification.

Moreover, he did not expect Cheryl to come personally. If he had known this would happen, he would not have asked.

For a moment, Russell even wanted to deny the fact that Melody was his daughter.

Mabel could not help but laugh when she saw Russell’s flushed face.

Yolanda frowned and gave Mabel a warning glance. Only then did Mabel shut up and try her best to maintain her r composure.

Yolanda retracted her gaze and walked to Melody’s side with a smile. “Miss Hanson, why would we joke with you? This is indeed our eldest daughter. It’s our family’s honor that you can personally come and determine her qualifications for the competition.

Mabel could not help but step forward and say coquettishly. “Miss Hanson, you’re too biased. Last year, when I first signed up to participate in the competition, you didn’t even come personally. It seems that you think my sister is more important.”

Cheryl’s lips twitched again. She looked at Mabel and then at Melody. She shook her head inwardly.

She thought, Of these two girls, one is graceful and lovable, while the other… To put it bluntly, she can almost be described as “unsightly.”

She felt a little regretful and thought, ‘Why did I come personally just because I thought that Wilona’s daughter was definitely a good candidate! With her looks, let alone winning the Best Celebrity, she is probably not even worthy of the word “socialite“. When Wilona was still alive, she was known as Halcyon’s number one beauty, Why did her daughter end up like this…

Even though Melody passed the assessment and obtained the qualifications to participate in the competition, it was definitely impossible for her to win the competition.

However, Cheryl knew that she had to go through this whole thing. Recently, she had established an oil painting class and urgently needed money. Since she was already there, it would not look good if she left directly. Hence, she ignored Melody’s appearance and said patiently. “It’s already dark. I won’t waste any more of your time. Let’s start directly.”

“Alright, Miss Hanson, Melody nodded and asked, “May I know how to take the assessment?”

Cheryl spread out the two oil paintings in her hand and said. “Family background is also very important in the socialite competition. You’ve already passed this part, so you’ll directly undergo the appraisal assessment of the painting. One of these two paintings is the real one, and the other is a fake. You just have to distinguish which one is the real one and you’ll pass the assessment.”

“Alright,” Melody nodded and began to examine the two paintings. Mabel also subconsciously began to look for the real one.

Back then, when she was taking the assessment, she was asked to do the same thing. However, because Yolanda had bribed the examiner in advance. she already knew the answer. The two paintings Cheryl was holding now were different from the last time. She recalled carefully and immediately remembered whose paintings they were. However, she could not tell which one was real.

Mabel looked at Cheryl and thought for a moment. Then, she said in surprise. “Isn’t this Master Derick Long’s pointing! I didn’t expect to see the real one today! I am so lucky!”

After Mabel finished speaking, she turned her gaze to Melody and asked with a smile, “Melody, do you know Master Derick He’s known as the best person in this field in Halcyon. It’s said that he was a disciple of Quentin Parker! He doesn’t have many paintings, and very few people can see the real one. We’re really lucky!”

As soon as she finished speaking, Melody’s expression changed slightly. She stared at the two paintings without moving, as if she were in a daze.

Mabel smirked mockingly.

She thought, “Whether it is Derick or Quentin, Melody has definitely never even heard of their names. She definitely can’t pass the participation qualification test, how dare she dream of joining the competition? What a joke!”

Mabel secretly glanced at Russell’s expression. Russell was also sizing up Melody’s expression, he looked away in disappointment. The comers of Mabel’s mouth could not help but curl up even more.

She knew that Russell must be regretting it now.

However, Mabel did not notice that Cheryl glanced at her with a complicated gaze.

Yolanda took the opportunity to say, “Miss Hanson, isn’t this question a little too difficult? We might have forgotten to tell you that Melody’s health isn’t good. She was raised by us in the countryside since she was young and she only came back recently. Look, can you give her an easier question?”

Hearing Yolanda’s words, Cheryl immediately frowned. This is already the easiest question. I’m sorry. I can’t do it.”

As she spoke, she completely lost her patience. She stood up and said. “Mr. Fox, Mrs. Fox. Looks like Melody is not fated to compete in this competition. I’ll come over after she has learned the basics.”

“Well…” Yolanda pretended to look at Russell anxiously.

Russell only felt embarrassed and turned his face away coldly.

Requesting the qualifications for Melody was the most regretful thing he had done recently.

Mabel was secretly delighted, but on the surface, she was as anxious as Yolanda. She pleaded in a soft voice, “Miss Hanson, please give my sister a chance. It’s true that she doesn’t know oil painting, but oil painting only takes up a portion of the competition. Can you make an exception?”

“I’m very sorry.” Cheryl’s face was still stem. “She can’t even pass my test, let alone the competition in the future. I advise you not to waste your energy and time. There are so many industries in the world, she will definitely find something suitable for her. I’ll leave now.”

As Cheryl spoke, she bowed and prepared to pick up the painting on the coffee table.

At this moment, Melody suddenly picked up the two paintings in front of Cheryl and overlapped them under everyone’s puzzled gazes.

With a ripping sound, the two paintings were instantly torn in half.

Mabel cried out in shock. “Master Derick’s painting!”

Yolanda was also shocked. She hurriedly looked at Russell.

Russell was also shocked. It took him two seconds to react. His black eyes seemed to have been soaked in hell as he scolded in a hoarse voice, “Damn girl! Are you crazy?”

He didn’t know much about oil art, but judging from Mabel’s reaction, he knew that Master Derick’s painting must be worth a lot. Melody tore the painting just like that. He felt that she was simply courting death,

Russell’s veins were bulging. In the next second, he was about to punch Melody in the face.

However, Melody’s expression was calm as she met Cheryl’s gaze without any fear. “Miss Hanson, I’ve already finished answering the question. May I participate in the competition?”

Chapter 210

As soon as Melody said this, Russell was stunned. Then, he became even more furious “Melody, are you really going to anger me to death? Do you know how much trouble you’ve caused?“.

God knew how much effort he had put into restraining himself from putting his fist on Melody’s face.

Mabel recovered from her shock. She was overjoyed in her heart, but her face was filled with worry as he said, “Melody, you’ve really gotten into big trouble this time. Master Derek’s real piece is so precious that it’s sold according to the size of the painting. This painting is so big that it is worth at least millions of dollars. You’re really making Dad and Mom worry too much!”

“Millions of dollars?” Russell’s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets.

The Justalion Group was currently in need of money. He could no longer suppress the anger in his heart and reached out to slap Melody.

Melody did not dodge or evade. She just looked at Cheryl calmly.

Just as the slap was about to land on Melody’s face. Cheryl finally spoke. “You passed.”

Russell froze and looked at Cheryl in disbelief. “Miss Hanson?”

Yolanda and Mabel also widened their eyes. The expression on Mabel’s face instantly froze.

She didn’t want to believe her ears and asked, “Miss Hanson, you said… she passed!“

She thought. How is this possible?

Melody’s actions meant that these two paintings were fakes. However, she had said so much just now, which meant that she couldn’t tell the authenticity of these two paintings…

Her expression gradually changed from shock to panic, and her face turned pale.

Cheryl did not even look at Mabel. She looked straight at Melody and asked. These two paintings are indeed fakes. Your taste is not bad. Tell me about your understanding of this painting.”

Understanding was the last test.

Melody spoke in a neither servile nor overbearing manner. “Oil paintings are divided into landscape paintings, character paintings, and item paintings. Master Derek is best at item paintings. There was once a rumor that a bird he drew was so realistic that even the cat at his home would pounce on it and catch it. The two paintings you gave me are character paintings that he’s not good at. Among the character paintings, the one thing he’s not good at is drawing people’s hands. Therefore, in the later stages of his life, he would even directly not draw hands and cover them with clothes. However, the hands of the two paintings just now were very good, so I judged that both of them were fakes.”

There was something else she didn’t say. The real copy of the painting that Cheryl showed her was hanging in Quentin’s study. Other than Quentin, no one else had a second real copy of this painting in the world.

After Melody finished speaking, Mabel’s face turned paler.

She did not know anything about what Melody said, and the teacher had never taught her this in class, but Melody even knew about this. She was surprised by her knowledge.

Cheryl nodded as she listened. Her expression seemed cold, but she could not help but carefully observe Melody.

Previously, she did not want to look at Melody at all, but now that she observed carefully, she suddenly felt the aura emanating from her body.

Melody’s temperament was simple, elegant, and steady. She was confident but not arrogant. She was like an independent orchid. This temperament was even more attractive than the beautiful Mabel beside her.

However, Melody’s appearance was clearly ugly. Her temperament and appearance were mixed together, making her look seriously out of place.

Cheryl could not help but sigh, Even though Wilona’s daughter is extremely ugly, her temperament is indeed extraordinary.

She took a deep look at Melody and felt a sense of pity.

With such a good temperament, even if Melody looked a little more normal, she might be able to compete with Mabel for the position of Best Celebrity.

Cheryl looked away and said with a complicated tone. “You’ve passed this round. You can participate in the competition in two months.”

However, with her look, even if she participated in the competition, she would be eliminated in the preliminary round. Cheryl felt that it was useless for Melody to participate.

She could not help but lament in her heart. Then, she turned to look at the shocked Russell and said, “Mr. Fox, I’ll add her to the competition list tomorrow. If there’s nothing else, I’ll leave first.”

Russell finally pulled himself out of his shock. He quickly retracted his hand that was about to hit Melody and said, “I’ll send you off?”

“That’s okay,” Cheryl said as she walked out. When she passed by Mabel, she said calmly, “You need to learn more from Melody when it comes to appreciating.”

Mabel’s face darkened and she clenched her fists tightly. She did not even notice that her nails had dug into her flesh.

It was Yolanda who tried to smooth things over. “Miss Hanson is right, I will try my best to supervise Mabel.”

Cheryl nodded and walked away. Her eyes were filled with disappointment for Mabel.

After Cheryl left, Russell seemed to have forgotten his scolding of Melody. He said with a smile. “Good daughter, Cheryl has high standards. If you can get her recognition, I am proud.”

Melody’s heart was filled with ridicule, but on the surface, she said obediently and humbly, I accidentally heard those words from others. I’m born with a good memory. Dad. I must take after you.”

Russell was even happier. “After you win the competition, study hard in the future. If you want to learn anything, just tell Yolanda.”

As he spoke, he frowned and said to Mabel reproachfully, “Look at you. How many times have I told you to spend more effort on study? You almost embarrassed me in front of Miss Hanson! You’ve been learning for so long, but you can’t even tell the authenticity of the painting. What exactly are you learning about! You’re not even as good as Melody!”

Mabel bit her lower lip and explained with reddened eyes, “That’s because I was preconceived by what Miss Hanson said, so I was certain that one of the paintings was real. And this wasn’t my assessment at all, so I didn’t even look at it carefully.”

Yolanda quickly explained. “Mabel was so far away from those two paintings. How can she tell if it’s real or fake! Don’t forget. Mabel passed her qualification assessment easily that time. This time, it’s just that she didn’t look at it seriously.”

Mabel had a sad look on her face. Her eyes were as bright as water, making people pity her. No one could bear to be angry.

She waved the corner of Russell’s shirt with one hand and said gently. If Daddy is not satisfied. I will definitely study harder in the future. Daddy. don’t be angry anymore, okay”

Seeing this, Russell could not bear to lose his temper at his most precious daughter.

He relaxed his furrowed brows and softened his tone. “Dad didn’t think too much about it, but what I said was for your own good. Alright, let’s forget about this matter.”

“Thank you, Daddy! Daddy is the best!” Mabel raised her bright face. Her eyes were filled with ripples. Russell was very satisfied.

Melody thought. Ulric would definitely like this face.

She watched everything expressionlessly, and the mockery in her eyes intensified.

It was the same every time. No matter what mistake Mabel made, she only needed to cry and pretend to be pitiful Russell would immediately soften his heart.

However, these were all trivial matters. Melody wondered if Mabel’s tears would be of any use after Mabel made an even bigger mistake in the future.

Prev | Next 

Chapter 201

Wendell was trembling all over. He finally realized that the practice was not as easy as he expected. “Ulric…

Ulric did not even look at him. He turned around and asked the bodyguard, “Where is Miss Fox?”

The bodyguard replied, “She is waiting outside in the lounge.”

“Okay.” Ulric nodded. As he walked towards the lounge, he instructed, “Keep an eye on him. If anyone allows him to stop. I’ll make that person stay here for the rest of his life”

The bodyguards responded in unison, “Yes!”

By the pool table, Wendell’s legs went weak and he instantly collapsed to the ground.

But soon, he was forcefully pulled up from the ground by the bodyguards. “Wendell, don’t make things difficult for us. Otherwise… you understand.”

Ulric walked out expressionlessly and ignored Wendell’s begging.

He dialed a number and instantly smiled. “Dr. White, I sent something to your email. I want you to help me confirm if the first course for nine-line acupuncture is as it says. Thank you.”

After the call ended, he pushed open the door of the private room in the lounge.

“Mabel,” Ulric said gently. “Sorry to keep you waiting. I received an important client and am only free now

When Mabel heard the voice, she immediately stuffed the makeup pad into her bag and stood up elegantly. “It doesn’t matter. I have nothing to do anyway. Your business is more important.”

As she spoke, she deliberately straightened her chest. The slim–fitting dress wrapped around her slender and full figure, and her slender waist could be seen.

Ulric could clearly see most of the scenery on Mabel’s chest. His eyes were as black as ink, and his expression was secretive.

No normal man could resist a beautiful woman with long legs and a slender waist, even if he was Ulric.

Ever since his legs were injured, he was no longer in the mood to touch women, Mabel successfully ignited the fire that had been suppressed in his heart for a long time.

Ulric averted his gaze and walked to the sofa to sit down. He said in a slightly hoarse voice, “Mabel, did something happen for you to suddenly look for me?

Hearing Ulric’s question. Mabel’s eyes immediately turned red.

She leaned against Ulric’s leg and sat down. Her beautiful eyes were as clear as water as she said aggrievedly. “I came today to ask you for a favor. I know it’s rude to do this, but I really don’t have a choice and I can’t think of anyone else… I really don’t want to see my nearly a year of hard work go to waste because of someone else’s scheme.

Mabel knew her advantage very well. As she spoke, her little nose turned red, and the tears in her eyes spread. Her pitiful appearance was Irresistible.

Ulric frowned and asked her, Frame, Who framed you?”

Mabel followed Yolanda’s instructions and bit her lower lip hard. She said, “A relative I never thought would harm me.”

Ulric asked seriously, “What exactly happened! Tell me clearly so that I know how to help you”

Mabel then said, “Do you remember Fairlee Lawrence!”

Seeing Ulric nod, she told him what happened in the Lawrence family. Of course, she only told him what was good for her.

In the end, she forced herself to shed a tear. Covering her red nose with her hand, she said, “Now, Ms. Lawrence really thinks that I’m a thief and asked someone to disqualify me from competing in the Best Celebrity competition. Mr. Swanson… I participated in the Best Celebrity competition for you. I want… to be someone worthy of being with you”

After saying that, she looked away shyly and did not look straight at Ulric.

Ulric’s heart skipped a beat when he saw the young girl in love

He raised Mabel’s chin with two fingers and said, “You’ve sacrificed so much for me. How can I stand by and do nothing?”

Mabel’s eyelashes fluttered like butterfly wings. She looked back at Ulric in surprise. “You’re willing to help me?”

He said. “Of course. It’s just a qualification to participate in the competition. How can I not be able to compete with Fairlee in this aspect! As long as you’re willing. I can guarantee that you win the competition without even participating.”

Mabel was pleasantly surprised, but she resisted the temptation and shook her head. “I’m very happy that you can give me a fair chance. As for the competition, I’ll rely on my own strength to compete.”

“What a good girl” Ulric reached out and rubbed Mabel’s head.

Mabel felt an electric current pass through her body. For a moment, she forgot Yolanda’s advice to not be too proactive. She suddenly raised her chin and kissed Ulric’s thin lips.

This kiss was like a spark. Ulric’s throat rolled. In the end, he could not reject the beauty’s initiative. His right hand held the back of Mabel’s head and kissed her deeply.

In the private room, the temperature seemed to have instantly risen, and only the sound of increasingly rapid breathing could be heard.

While Ulric was in a state of confusion, Mabel’s clothes were half–removed, and her eyes were filled with lust.

Just as he was about to make his next move, Mabel’s exquisite and perfect face gradually blurred. Another person’s face suddenly overlapped with the person in front of him. He couldn’t help but freeze. When he looked again, he saw that the face had become Mabel’s again.

All his desires instantly dissipated at this moment. The beauty in front of him, whose shoulders were half exposed, suddenly lost all her attraction.

It was beautiful, but it was too easy to obtain. He immediately felt that it was boring.

After a pause, Ulric withdrew his hand from Mabel’s waist and stood up from the sofa. “Mabel, it’s getting late. You should go back.”

Mabel’s eyes were half–closed. She was waiting nervously for Ulric’s next move when she suddenly heard Ulric urging her to go back…

She had never thought that there would be a man who could reject her embrace. –

After her surprise, she could not help but feel a chill Humiliation and grievance immediately assaulted her.

Mabel sat up from the sofa. As she pulled her clothes in humiliation, she asked indignantly. “Mr. Swanson, did I do something wrong?…

She really did not understand why Ulric suddenly stopped after having already reached this stage with her.

“Silly girl” Ulric’s eyes curved. He reached out and tapped the tip of her nose. “Who can make the woman they love give her first time in such a place?”

Mabel clenched her fists tightly and said with determination, I don’t mind!

Ulric’s heart was already filled with impatience, but he did not show it on his face. He said gently, “But I do. Mabel, you’re different, to me, so I’m not willing to take you so casually. Do you understand!”

The humiliation and grievance in Mabel’s heart instantly dissipated, replaced by an unprecedented sense of joy and victory.

“I understand…” Mabel nodded shyly and did not forget to ask, “Then about my qualification to participate in the competition…”

“Don’t worry, your business is my business. Go back and wait for news Ulric pinched Mabel’s earlobe. It was ambiguous and gentle.

Mabel really wanted to wallow in Ulric’s gentleness and not come out, but fortunately, she still had her rationality. After nodding, she left reluctantly.

The moment the door closed, the gentleness in Ulric’s eyes instantly disappeared.

No one knew whose face he had seen in that blurry moment. Even he did not believe it.

He thought, “How could it be that person? Why did it have to be her?

Ulric lit a cigarette in frustration. As the cigarette burned out he dialed a number.

Chapter 202

At Serenity Villa, Melody was sleeping with Shane when her phone suddenly vibrated.

She subconsciously glanced at the caller ID and could not help but be stunned.

She thought, ‘Isn’t this… Ulric’s number? The person I sent to monitor Mabel clearly said that the two of them are together now, but why would Ulric call me at this time?‘

Melody picked up the call in confusion and said indifferently, “What brings Mr. Ulric to call me?”

There was silence on the other end of the phone for a second, and then Ulric’s muffled laughter rang out. “Miss Fox actually remembers my phone number. I’m really flattered.”

Melody’s hand holding the phone froze.

In her previous life, she had already memorized Ulric’s number by heart, but at this moment, she should not have remembered this number.

She wanted to explain, but the corners of her lips twitched. She decided not to explain and asked directly. “Mr. Ulric, just say what you want to say?”

“It seems like every word you say to me is filled with thorns” Ulric’s voice was filled with grievance. “Miss Fox, I really don’t understand what misunderstanding there is between us. It seems like you haven’t liked me ever since we first met.”

Melody asked, “Really?”

Ulric said, “Really”

Melody smiled playfully and said, “Mr. Ulric, aren’t you being a little too narcissistic? Do you think that everyone in the world has to like you?”

Ulric said, “You know that’s not what I meant.

Melody felt disgusted when she heard Ulric’s voice. She said coldly, “If Mr. Ulric called just to say this, I’ll hang up. You have a lot of things to do. I don’t want to waste your time.”

“I do have a business to attend to, Ulric paused for a moment and said, “Your sister came to look for me today.”

Melody frowned in surprise. She thought, Why did Ulric tell me about this?

The next second, Ulric said sincerely. “She told me that you caused her to lose her qualification to participate in the Best Celebrity competition. But I don’t believe that you did those things. I don’t think you’re the kind of person who would frame others.”

Melody was not sure what Ulric was up to, nor was she sure that he would record the call, so she said noncommittally. “I didn’t expect Mr. Ulric to know me so well.”

Ulric said, “Don’t worry. I’ve already spoken to Miss Mabel. I’ll help her resolve Best Celebrity’s matter, but I hope she won’t misunderstand you again.”

“Thank you so much” Melody was still filled with sarcasm.

Ulric choked and was silent for a few seconds before speaking again. “Miss Fox, what I am going to say might cause a bigger misunderstanding between us, however, I can’t bear to see you deceived, so I have to say it.”

Melody said. “Yes”

Ulric said, “My brother… isn’t a good person. He can even cripple my legs, let alone someone who works for him. He married you only to make a good impression on Grandma. In the Swanson family, the person who has the most say is still our Grandma, so in order to please Grandma, he will do anything. I don’t want you to be hurt, so I hope you can see his true colors as soon as possible.”

Melody felt like she had heard the biggest joke in the world.

She moved her lips and finally said, “Mr. Ulric, are you done?”

Ulric asked, “Miss Fox, you don’t believe me.

I’m sorry, I only believe in myself”

With that, Melody ended the call and blocked Ulric’s number. Her actions were smooth without hesitation.

She really did not understand how she had been so thoroughly deceived by Ulric in her previous life. Ulric’s deception skills were clearly so low.

She thought, Indeed, love can only make people stupid. In this life, I definitely do not want to get involved in a romantic relationship again!

At the same time, inside the Maybach, Ken was taking a nap with his eyes closed when James, who was sitting in the passenger seat, suddenly said, “Mr. Ken, we found something!”

Ken did not open his eyes and asked calmly. “What’s the matter?”

James raised his phone and turned around to say. “I monitored Miss Fox’s phone and found that she had just called Ulric. The call lasted two minutes and forty seconds. Mr. Ken, could Miss Fox be an undercover agent sent by Ulric? If not, why did she call Ulric? And why did they talk about for so long?”

Two minutes was enough to reveal a lot of information, such as Ximber Tech.

The more James thought about it, the more afraid he became. He said with a pale face. “Ximber Tech is in the most important starting stage now. If Ulric finds out, we will be in big trouble!”

However, James did not receive any response. He could not help but look at Ken in confusion. However, he saw Ken looking at him coldly. That gaze seemed to have a chill.

James was shocked. He shrank his neck and asked, “What’s wrong, Mr. Ken…

Ken said in a low voice. “When did I ask you to monitor her phone?

James was stunned for a moment and said, “Didn’t you ask me to keep an eye on her in real time…”

“Cancel the monitor device, Ken ordered indifferently.

James asked, “What?”

Ken said, “Are you deaf?”

“Okay!” James did not dare to say anything else and immediately canceled the surveillance of Melody’s phone.

After doing this, he was still brooding over Ulric’s call. However, the few times he wanted to speak, he was frightened by Ken’s terrifying aura and swallowed his words.

Finally, when they were about to reach their destination, James mustered his courage and said. “Mr. Ken, about the phone call…

“Don’t mention it again, Ken interrupted James.

James was defeated again. In the end, he did not dare to ask anymore. However, his impression of Melody was a little worse.

Soon the car arrived at its destination, Ximber Tech.

When the two of them entered the company, Janet was furious as she held her phone and shouted at the person on the other end. “Why are you so useless? The news has already been shown, how can it still be suppressed?”

The person on the other end said in fear and trepidation, “Miss Janet, it’s really not my fault this time. I don’t know who directly made my account disappear. I can’t even send out any keywords related to this matter. I’ve really tried my best… Why don’t I investigate who interfered“”

“No need!” Janet closed her eyes with trembling hands.

She didn’t need to investigate to know who it was. It was precisely because she knew who it was that she became even more frustrated.

However, the person on the other end of the phone clearly did not know anything. He continued diligently. “Miss Janet, if we don’t find this person we will still be banned if we carry out such operations in the future. We have to solve the problem from the root”

Janet said, “That’s enough. I know what I’m doing. Shut up…

Before she could finish speaking, the office door was pushed open.

She was about to reprimand the person walking in unhappily when she looked up and met a pair of black eyes. It was Ken.

Ken changed into a black suit. His dark eyes were filled with a strong hostility.

Janet’s heart skipped a beat, and her face instantly turned pale. She realized that he knew what was happening.

Otherwise, he would not have appeared at the door of her office at this time.

Janet took a deep breath and tried her best to pretend to be calm. After quickly hanging up the phone, she forced a smile and asked, “Ken, why are you here!”

Chapter 203

Janet held onto the last bit of hope in her heart. She felt that the Murphy family did things flawlessly. Ken was at most suspicious and could not trace things back to her.

Ken took a deep look at Janet. Without saying a word, he walked to the swivel chair behind the desk and sat down with an imposing aura.

Janet was filled with apprehension as she turned to look at James.

James wanted to help Janet, but Ken was sitting in front of him. He did not dare to make a sound and only lowered his head pretending not to see Janet’s pleading gaze.

When Janet saw James’s reaction, the hope in her heart instantly disappeared.

As expected, Ken still found out about it.

Just as Janet did not know how to deal with the current situation, she saw Ken take out a cigarette from the cigarette box. He hit it between his lips and was about to light it when he seemed to have thought of something in the next second. He suddenly stopped lighting the cigarette and held it between his fingers.

Janet’s heart trembled slightly.

She had advised Ken not to smoke if he had a cold. He seemed to remember that.

She thought. Does this mean that he actually has me in his heart?”

Janet suddenly gained courage. She took a deep breath and said. “Ken, if you have something to say, just say it. If you’re here for Melody, then I admit that I did it. But I don’t think I’m at fault.”

After saying that, Ken’s expression was indistinguishable. He only said with a gloomy gaze. “Tell me your motive.

Janet’s expression froze as she thought. “Motive! Isn’t that the term used when interrogating criminals?

She said humiliatingly. “I just want you to understand that it won’t do you any good to be too close to Melody. Ximber Tech is at the most important stage. After this stage, your identity will be revealed sooner or later. At that time, you will be worshipped. Do you want to see her ruin your reputation when that time comes?”

“Drag me down.” Ken gave a half–smile. His eyes were filled with coldness.

Janet subconsciously swallowed before she dared to continue. “Yes. let’s not talk about her image first. Just based on the environment of her family. if she really has anything to do with you, the Fox family will definitely pester you. I don’t want it to be difficult for you to clean up when that time comes, so it’s better to make Melody give up as soon as possible.”

“Make Melody give up?” Ken chuckled. “What do you think she wants to do to me?”

“Of course…” Janet clenched her fists and said. “She wants to rely on you to rise to the top.

Ken pinched the space between his eyebrows. “Janet, you seem to have forgotten that we’ve already registered our marriage. If she wanted to rely on me to climb up the social ladder, she would have countless opportunities since she already has the title of Mrs. Swanson, but she didn’t.”

Janet gritted her teeth. “That’s because she wants to cast a long line to catch a big fish and occupy this title for a long time.

Ken glanced at her indifferently. “Janet, you seem to have a huge opinion about her,”

Janet was silent for two seconds before she suddenly nodded and said, “I admit that I don’t like her, but everything I’ve done is for you. I believe she must have seen that post. If you don’t draw a line with her now, she will only be more unscrupulous.“.

“For me?” Ken’s voice was cold. He looked at Janet expressionlessly. “If it’s for me, there’s no need. Your duty is to design and review the product, not interfere with my private life. You said that Melody is unscrupulous, but what about you! You followed me, took those photos, and posted that post behind my back. Janet, seeing as we’ve been partners for years, I’ve put a lid on this for you, and I won’t mention it again, but this is the last time. If there’s a next time. I will kick you out of my team.”

Janet’s heart tightened. She asked in disbelief, “Ken, what do you mean? You want to chase me out of Ximber Tech for a mere Melody!”

Ken still lit the cigarette in the end, but after taking a puff, he crushed the cigarette butt with his bare hands. That action shocked Janet.

Ken stood up and said indifferently. “I don’t want to repeat myself. You haven’t been back in this country for long, so you might not have adjusted your condition yet. Come back to work when you have.”

Janet’s face instantly turned pale.

She gripped the hem of her dress tightly, but she could not say a word. Her eyes turned red.

At this moment, her heart ached as if it was pierced by a needle.

Ken did not even look at her. He only said calmly. “Go to the technical department and hand over the work.”

Janet bit her lower lip and turned around stiffly to walk out.

Although Ken only told her to go back and adjust her condition, she knew that this was a very harsh punishment.

She was not around at the most important stage before the product was introduced, so no matter how popular this product would be in the future. it would not have much to do with her. This was no different from a huge warning,

After Janet left, James wanted to say something but hesitated. There were a few times when the words were at the tip of his tongue, but he still did not have the courage to say them. He swallowed them again.

Ken glanced at James coldly. “You think I’m cold-blooded?

James opened his mouth and shook his head. “No…”

Ken raised his eyebrows and said, “If I were cold-blooded and disregarded old feelings, I wouldn’t have given her this chance”

James took a deep breath and mustered his courage to say, “But, Mr. Ken… Miss Murphy did everything for you. If you let her go home and adjust, wouldn’t the punishment be too severe!”

“For me!” Ken found it funny. “Do you really think so too?”

James choked. He realized that he could not answer this question immediately.

“That’s enough.” Ken looked at the time and said. “Go meet people from Taynorma Capital and then return to Serenity Villa.

James quickly responded. He could not help but ask excitedly. “Mr. Ken, can I come back and be with you?”

Ken was unperturbed. “You are far more useful being with Melody than being me. Help her poach Zack and you can come back.”

James said. “Yes!”

He thought. What if Miss Fox can not poach Zack? Then wouldn’t I never be able to return to Mr. Ken’s side for the rest of my life?

On the way. Ken received a call from Margaret, “Grandma…

As soon as he opened his mouth. Margaret interrupted him and asked, “Ken, why did I hear Astrid say that Cadence’s condition was not so serious that she needed to be hospitalized? Moreover, your staff were blocking the entrance of the hospital. Even she and Cadence’s father could not go in to visit?”

Ken’s expression did not change. He asked, “What did she tell you?!”

Margaret was silent for two seconds before saying truthfully. “She said that it’s because Wendell doesn’t agree with you on the project, so you… Ken, if that’s the case, no matter what, you can’t take your anger out on Cadence”

Ken asked calmly, “Grandma, do you also think that I’m abusing my power?”

Margaret was silent for a while before saying. “Of course, Grandma doesn’t think you’re that kind of person. It’s just that yesterday, she was still fine. Why did her condition suddenly… become so serious?“.

Chapter 204

“Grandma. Ken put down the tablet on his knees and held the phone tightly. “Don’t forget that Cadence’s mother also suddenly fell ill. This disease is inheritable, Wendell cares about his face. You know this very well. The reason why I stopped him from visiting was because I was afraid that he would forcefully bring her home despite Cadence’s condition for the sake of his face.

Margaret said, “That’s true.”

He said. “I can assure you that bringing Cadence to the hospital for treatment has nothing to do with Wendell’s mistakes in the company?

Margaret nodded and said, I’m relieved to hear that. However, what did Wendell do in the company!

He answered. “I’ll tell you in detail when the matter is resolved.”

Margaret could only say, “Alright, I understand. If Cadence gets better, let me know immediately.

“Okay, Grandma” After the call ended, Ken looked up and asked James, “Has everything been arranged at the mental hospital?”

“Yes,” James nodded and said, “Cadence’s condition will only get worse.”

“Okay.” There was no pity in Ken’s eyes. He replied indifferently and asked, “Where is Wendell now!”

James quickly replied. “He is at Sky Hall, Ulric is also there. However, my subordinates said that the two of them had been in there for almost three hours. Ulric left half an hour ago, but Wendell has never come out” –

After a pause, James asked, “Should we get someone to sneak in and take a look?”

“There’s no need…” As soon as he finished speaking. Melody called.

The call was automatically connected to the car’s Bluetooth. The voice of Melody sounded from the car. “Ken”

Ken nodded with his eyes half–closed. His tone was emotionless as he asked, “What’s up?”

Melody said. “On the forum, Wendell posted a post. He wanted to find a doctor who knew nine–line acupuncture to treat Ulric’s leg. After I replied to him, I asked for 200 million dollars, and he agreed.

When James, who was in the driver’s seat, heard this, he subconsciously looked at the rearview mirror nervously.

If Melody were to heal Ulric’s leg, he felt that there would be big trouble.

Ken’s expression did not change at all. He asked calmly, “Then?”

Melody asked. “Then I want to ask you, what’s our next move?

When she went to Ximber Tech last time, she wanted to discuss the forum with Ken. However, Janet was present at that time, so she was not in the mood to talk about it.

Ken raised his eyebrows. “Aren’t you very short of money? Why don’t you want to accept this deal? 200 million dollars is a lot.”

Melody said, “Let alone 200 million dollars, I won’t treat his legs even for 2 billion dollars”

Ken’s expression remained unchanged. “So what do you think?”

“My idea is to keep him on the book before confirming that no one else knows nine–line acupuncture in this world except Quentin and L. However..” Melody changed the topic and asked, “Is it possible to receive the payment before completing the bounty on the forum? I’ve accepted a few bounties in the past few days and found that they all require the other party to confirm twice before the money can be transferred.”

Ken’s expression finally changed. The comers of his lips curled up slightly as he asked. “You want to extort a sum from him?”

On the other end of the phone, Melody said matter–of–factly, Yes. Of course, I have to earn this money. But I just want to take the money and not do anything. How about it? Can we do it!”

Ken smiled faintly and said after two seconds, “No,”

“Why not?” Melody asked in confusion, “200 million dollars is enough for him to suffer for a long time.

Currently, Ulric does not have much cash flow at his disposal. After losing 200 million dollars, Ulric’s influence would be weakened a lot. In this world, nothing could be done without money.

“The rule of the black market cannot be broken, Ken said concisely, “Once an exception is made, the credibility of the forum will be lowered in the eyes of users in the future. The forum will quickly collapse.”

Melody was stunned for a moment before she quickly understood Ken’s actions.

Indeed, if the black market wanted to operate in the long term, it could not make an exception for her selfish desires.

For any bounty on the forum, the black market had to charge a 10% commission. This was undoubtedly a huge source of income.

It was indeed not worth it to make an exception for Ulric’s 200 million dollars. Melody felt that she was being inconsiderate.

“I’m sorry…” Melody apologized seriously, “I didn’t think too much about it. I just said it casually. Just pretend that I didn’t mention it just now.”

“Alright, Ken replied. He asked. “Is there anything else?”

Melody said, “There’s something else. It’s not very important, but I think I should tell you.”

Ken said. “Shoot.”

Melody said, “Ulric called me. He seems to be trying to rope me in.

When Ken heard this, he looked up and glared at James, James happened to be looking in the rearview mirror. The moment their eyes met, he immediately looked away awkwardly and could not help but feel guilty.

“I sec.” Ken calmly retracted his gaze. He looked calm, but a faint smile appeared on his lips.

Melody asked, “That’s your reaction?”

Ken said. “How should I react!!

“You should raise my daily salary. If I’m really poached, you’ll lose a lot, Melody said half-jokingly.

Ken said. “I think about it.”

You.. Forget it. I’m done. I’m hanging up. With that, Melody ended the call.

She pursed her lips and muttered to herself, Why didn’t Ken worry that Ulric would really poach me? Am I insignificant to him? This is the only explanation.

Melody’s expression darkened.

Inside the Maybach, Ken looked up at James again. “Did you hear everything**

James shrunk his neck and said, “I shouldn’t doubt Miss Fox’s credibility. I won’t monitor Miss Fox’s calls anymore.

After a pause, James deliberately changed the topic and asked, “Wendell contacted our staff running the forum several times on the forum using his real name. He said that he wanted to see you and discuss cooperation with you. Do I need to do anything?”

“Ignore him” Ken’s eyes were filled with contempt.

Wendell was not smart enough to come up with the idea of collaborating with the black market. The person who really wanted to obtain the black market was obviously Ulric. However, Ulric would never have thought that the black market was his territory.

Soon, the car arrived at the Swanson Group.

Owen Nathan from Taynorma Capital was already waiting in the reception room.

When he saw Ken enter, he said with a smile, “Mr. Swanson, I asked to meet you yesterday, but your assistant said that you didn’t have time. I finally get to meet you now.”

Ken directly ignored him. He walked past Owen and sat on the chair. He slowly took a sip of coffee before opening his eyes to look at Owen. “After not seeing you for a few days, your mood seems to have improved a lot?”

Owen’s expression froze and he stopped smiling. After sitting opposite Ken, he went straight to the point. “I came here to tell you that you don’t have to let the merger lawyer work so hard to investigate anymore. We don’t plan to hand Taynorma Capital over to the Swanson Group”

After Owen finished speaking, he waited for Ken to reveal a shocked expression,

However, Ken had a half–smile on his face.

Owen felt confused.

Owen was instantly stunned. He lost his composure and asked, “What did you say?”

Ken was puzzled. “What’s wrong? You don’t seem to be very satisfied with my blessing.”

Chapter 205

“No…” Owen came back to his senses and shook his head. I’m not dissatisfied.”

Ken raised his hand and made a gesture. He said calmly, “I have other things to do, so I won’t send you off. James, send him off.”

“Yes,” James bowed and opened the door for Owen.

Owen’s mind went blank. He walked out of the door mechanically, his heart filled with question marks.

Ramon Swanson really wanted to acquire Taynorma Capital. After all, Taynorma Capital’s entertainment company was not small. Even if it was a high–priced acquisition, it would definitely not lose out in the long term.

Owen thought Ken should be panicking when I suddenly proposed to cancel the merger and acquisition because Ramon would definitely fly into a rage when he returned. Why is Ken so calm? Is he pretending to be calm, or does he really not care!

It was undeniable that the Swanson Group was definitely the best place for Taynorma Capital. He did not really want to give up on the Swanson Group. He just wanted to use this opportunity to scare him so that Ken would not lower the price so much.

Owen clenched his fists tightly and barely managed to stop his hands from trembling.

Just as Owen was about to leave. Ken suddenly called out to him, “Mr. Nathan.”

Owen immediately stopped in his tracks and heaved a sigh of relief.

He thought, “Ken was indeed pretending to be calm! Now that I am really about to leave, he cannot pretend anymore!

Owen was overjoyed, but he pretended to be calm. He turned around and asked calmly. “Mr. Swanson, is there anything else?”

There was a smile in Ken’s voice. “I just want to ask you a question. Does Thynorma Capital’s other shareholders know to shout the money to you?

Owen was stunned on the spot. The color on his face turned white at a speed visible to the naked eye.

“How do you know..” Halfway through his sentence, Owen realized that something was wrong and quickly corrected himself. “I don’t understand what Mr. Swanson is saying

“Is that so?” Ken played with the cup in his hand and said meaningfully. Then I might have made a mistake. Goodbye, Mr. Nathan.!

James walked up to Owen and smiled. “Mr. Nathan, please.”

Owen’s footsteps were weak. He did not even know how he walked out of the Swanson Group

When he came back to his senses in extreme fear, he realized that he had already arrived outside the Swanson Group.

When it rained, it poured. The chief assistant called and said, “Mr. Nathan, bad news! Something has happened at the entertainment company! A few celebrities have jointly posted a thread saying that the company’s executives have been exploiting them for a long time. Also, there’s a problem with the real estate group we invested in a few months ago. They said that we have used cheap materials to build houses and want to sue us. The company’s market value has plummeted and we have lost tens of millions of dollars. Please return to the company quickly!”

Owen’s legs went weak and he fell to the ground.

After a while, he found his voice. “Let the public relations department deal with it first. I’ll be right back.”

“Yes!” After the call ended, Owen touched his back. His entire shirt was drenched in sweat,

At this moment, Owen finally understood that he was no match for Ken.

Owen turned around and walked back, but he was stopped by James, who was guarding downstairs. “Why are you back?

“I want to talk to Mr. Swanson again.” Owen forced a smile, but it was uglier than crying.

James smiled and said, “Mr. Nathan, I’m really sorry. Mr. Swanson’s schedule is very packed today, so he doesn’t have time to see you for the time being.”

Owen was extremely anxious. “Mr. Deeds, please make an exception. I really have something urgent to discuss with Mr. Swanson.”

James smiled faintly and said, “Mr. Swanson is really busy today, but he asked me to convey a message to you. He will squeeze out some time to see you when you are clear about what you want to say to him.”

Owen was speechless. It was as if something was stuck in his throat. He could not even breathe properly.

James looked deeply at Owen. He leaned forward and said in a low voice. “Mr. Nathan, there’s nothing that can’t be resolved. It depends on how you plan to resolve it”

With that, James patted Owen’s shoulder with a sympathetic expression. Without looking at him again, he turned around and left.

Owen stood in the lobby for a long time. It was not until the assistant’s second call that he walked out of the Swanson Group in a daze and drove away.

However, what Owen did not know was that as soon as he left, Ken walked out of the building.

James, who was following behind him, was not stingy with his flattery. “Mr. Ken, you’re really too awesome! You didn’t see Owen’s expression at that time. As a man about to turn 50, he was actually about to cry! However, if I were him, I would definitely cry too He thought he could threaten you to raise the merger price, but in the end, not only did you directly wish him a better future, but you also evaporated more than half of Taynorma Capital’s market value. If I were him. I might have died on the spot.”

Ken stopped and turned to look at him. “Are you very free?”

James immediately shut up and went to prepare the car.

In Serenity Villa, Melody had been in a bad mood ever since she found out that the post was posted by Janet while Ken kept Janet safe and hid this fact from her.

Especially after she told Ken that Ulric called her, Ken still did not give any big reaction. Her mood became even more depressed.

Previously, she thought that Ken had given her a chance to join Ximber Tech because Ken had already seen her ability. But now, it seemed that she was still an insignificant existence to him.

If that was the case for Ken, it was even more impossible for Melody to deal with Ulric.

She had to hurry up and help Ken poach Zack to prove her ability.

Even if Zack did not like to be pestered, she could not continue waiting.

At this moment, Wilmot Sherman called.

She quickly answered the call and looked at Shane, who was sleeping soundly beside her. She lowered her voice and asked, “You came back to Silverlake?

Wilmot said. “Yes, I’m on my way back downtown from the airport, but I have to go back to the company first. Can I ask you to help me send Shane to the company?” Wilmot sounded very guilty, but as a single father, sometimes he was too busy

“Alright,” Melody agreed without hesitation. “I’ll bring Shane over now.”

Wilmot had just hung up when his brother. Leo Sherman called him. “Where are you?”

Wilmot answered, “Ten minutes to the office.”

Leo said. “Hurry up and come over. Jessica Summers brought a lot of media to the company and said that they wanted an explanation. Now, the entrance of the company is blocked, and the public opinion on the Internet is on her side. Dad handed the company to you before he died. If you destroy it, how can he be at ease in heaven?”

Wilmot’s voice was cold and deep. “I’ll be there soon.”

Leo didn’t say anything else and hung up.

Ten minutes later, when Wilmot got out of the car, he only saw many people at the entrance of the company.

He saw Jessica crying in front of the camera. “The Silk Beauty spent four years developing the All–Purpose Water. It’s only been on the market for a few days, but it’s already been slandered everywhere… People believed that Silk Beauty stole the formula from somewhere. Some people even claimed that the All–Purpose Water is a low–quality product. I really don’t know if everyone is targeting Silk Beauty or domestic beauty products. I hope everyone can give Silk Beauty a chance and give this industry a chance.”

Jessica cried so hard that even the media was moved.

At this moment, someone in the crowd suddenly shouted, “Wilmot is here!”

As soon as that person said this, everyone’s eyes instantly locked onto Wilmot. Their gazes were a little unfriendly.

The media swarmed forward and surrounded Wilmot with microphones.

A person asked, Mr. Sherman, you claim that Silk Beauty Cosmetics stole your formula. Do you have evidence? Another person asked, Is it because Golden Water’s sales instantly plummeted after Silk Beauty Cosmetic’s All-Purpose Water was listed that you took revenge and slandered Silk Beauty Cosmetics?

Someone asked, Do you know that your actions may constitute defamation? It’s not easy for another domestic makeup product to appear. Are you afraid that your market will be snatched away?

Prev | Next 

Chapter 196

Jessica’s face turned even uglier upon hearing this, and she immediately slapped the boy’s face, angrily scolding, “Everyone else is helping him because you’re incompetent!”

Neil immediately shrunk his neck, wailing loudly in tears.

The nearby teacher was at a loss, wanting to step forward to comfort but hesitating in the face of Jessica’s anger, and remained silent for a moment.

Melody, however, was more certain that Neil must have started the fight between the two.

Seeing Jessica about to hit the child again, Melody stopped her coldly, “Ma’am, it’s indeed wrong for children to fight, but it’s not right for you to do this, right?”

“Huh?” Jessica scoffed as if hearing a huge joke, forgetting to blame her own son. She pointed at Melody’s nose and said, “Who do you think you are? I’m disciplining my son, what business is it of yours?”

Melody nodded. “I don’t want to meddle either. Let’s clarify our matters. Your son has made Shane cry. I don’t need compensation from you, but I must hear an apology.”

Even more incredulous, Jessica responded, “Clearly, your little brat was in the wrong! My son has such serious injuries, and I haven’t even mentioned you paying for medical expenses, but you’re already looking for trouble with me?”

Melody remained composed and said calmly, “Since neither of us was present, we can’t be sure whose fault it was. Let’s hear from them to clarify.”

Melody gently rubbed Shane’s head and asked in a soothing voice, “Shane, can you tell me why you were fighting?”

Shane looked up, tears welling in his eyes, and said while sobbing, “Neil called me a motherless bastard and told me to get out of the kindergarten…”

Melody’s expression immediately turned grim.

Melody had heard that phrase countless times herself when she was young, and she knew firsthand the significant psychological damage such words could inflict on a child.

Melody looked coldly at Jessica and said, “Did you hear that? The reason for the fight is that your son insulted Shane first with such vicious words. For a child so young to say such hurtful things, how exactly do you usually discipline your child?”

Jessica sneered and replied, “I don’t think I need an ugly freak like you to dictate how I raise my son. Furthermore, is there anything wrong with what my son said? Isn’t he indeed a child without a mother?”

“You…”

Melody was furious. She turned around and ordered James, “Call the police!”

“Yes, Miss Fox.” James nodded. Just as he was about to make a call, Jessica’s bodyguard snatched his phone away.

With a glance, Jessica signaled her bodyguards, who immediately surrounded James and Melody.

Terrified, Shane quickly ran into Melody’s arms for safety.

Melody narrowed her eyes coldly and spoke expressionlessly, “Jessica, what do you mean by this?”

Jessica chuckled and said, “You know who I am? Do you dare to demand an apology from me? What audacity! My new product is launching soon. How long do you think Icy Clear Cosmetics can hold on? Listen, I will soon acquire Icy Clear Cosmetics, and then both you and Wilmot will be at my mercy! I suggest you behave sensibly and kneel down to apologize now. I might still leave you a way out. Otherwise…“.

“Otherwise what?”

Jessica frowned displeased, “You don’t know what’s good for you! Today, I’ll teach you a lesson! Get them, give this reckless ugly woman a good beating!”

The bodyguards stepped forward.

At this moment, a deep voice sounded mockingly.

“Oh, who would have thought such a scene could happen at a kindergarten gate? Silk Beauty Cosmetics has quite a reputation, gathering a crowd for a brawl at a kindergarten gate.”

Jessica looked displeased in the direction of the voice, but as soon as she recognized the person, her eyes widened in shock.

Ken Swanson?

This was the lunatic who even crippled his own younger brother.

Seeing Ken, Jessica’s heart skipped a beat for a moment in fear.

Silk Beauty Cosmetics has only emerged in recent years. Despite its significant growth and becoming one of the top domestic pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies, its foundation and expertise were still far behind compared to the Swanson Group.

She did not dare to make a big fuss in front of Ken. She immediately put away her arrogance and said in surprise, “Mr. Swanson, why are you… here?”

“Wasn’t Ken unmarried? Why was he at the entrance of the kindergarten?‘

Jessica looked at Melody and then at Ken. She refused to believe that Ken was here for Melody.

After all, this woman was too ugly and dressed very simply. She did not look like someone related to the Swanson family at all.

With this in mind, Jessica gathered her courage and continued, “Mr. Swanson, my son was bullied, so I came here to seek justice. I’m sorry you had to witness this. I’ll handle it quickly and won’t affect your mood.”

Ken smiled playfully and said with a trace of roguishness, “What a coincidence. I’m also here to uphold justice.”

Jessica looked utterly stunned.

Ken pushed a bodyguard away and stood in front of Melody.

Melody hadn’t expected Ken to appear here, just as she hadn’t expected him to show up at the Fox family home last night.

His sudden appearances in moments of crisis stirred her emotions more each time.

She herself hadn’t even noticed this stirring of emotions.

“You…”

Melody thought Ken might say something to her, but instead, he didn’t utter a single word. He stood firmly in front of her with his back to her, his gaze fixed on Jessica with a slightly mocking expression.

Jessica’s eyes widened. The impossible possibility was now right in front of her.

Jessica couldn’t fathom any connection between this ugly woman and Ken, but the reality was right in front of her. She had no choice but to believe it.

“Mr. Swanson…” Jessica awkwardly laughed, saying, “I didn’t expect you to be friends with this lady. Isn’t this a bit of an overreaction? Children will be children, and it’s not really appropriate for us adults to intervene. Out of respect for you, let’s forget about this matter.”

As Jessica spoke, she nudged Neil. “Quick, apologize and make up with Shane.”

Children did not understand the twists and turns of the adult world. Neil only remembered his mother saying that he could not lower his head in front of Wilmot’s son.

He immediately pouted and shook his head in rejection. “I don’t want to be friends with a motherless bastard!”

Jessica’s face darkened. She reached out and slapped Neil on the forehead.

“I told you to make up!”

Neil was shocked and started crying again.

Jessica immediately felt even more awkward. She looked at Ken with a stiff smile.

“Mr. Swanson, children don’t understand. I’ll go back and educate him properly,” she said, pulling her son along to leave.

However, before she could take a few steps, Melody said coldly, “Stop!”

Jessica’s back stiffened. She gritted her teeth and turned to look at Melody with a forced smile. “It’s just children playing around. Both are at fault. Do you really want to take it seriously?”

The tone implied that if Melody continued to insist on the matter, Jessica would consider it a mistake on Melody’s part.

Chapter 197

Melody looked at Jessica expressionlessly.

“As I said just now, Shane is not at fault, so your son must apologize to Shane. Also, as a parent, not only did you not teach your child correctly, but you also insulted and threatened others in front of your child. You have to apologize to me and pay compensation.”

Jessica’s face turned furious. If it weren’t for Ken’s presence, she would have ordered her bodyguard to kill Melody on the spot.

She stared stiffly at Ken, hoping he would say something.

Ken raised his eyebrows and said casually, “Didn’t you hear what she said? Apologize and compensate her mentally.”

Jessica clenched her fists and said with an unpleasant expression, “I’m sorry!”

Melody looked at Neil, and Jessica quickly patted Neil’s head, commanding, “Say sorry!”

Neil was also frightened by Ken’s aura. Although Ken was smiling, he felt Ken was scarier than his mother getting angry.

Neil immediately said, “I’m sorry! I won’t dare to do it again!”

Only then did Melody’s expression ease up a little. She took out her phone and showed the QR code. “Just give me 200 thousand dollars for mental compensation.”

“200 thousand dollars?”

Jessica spoke loudly but didn’t dare ask for so much even when she opened her mouth widely.

“What’s wrong?” Melody tilted her head. “The dignified chairman of Silk Beauty Cosmetics can’t take out 200 thousand dollars?”

Jessica was so angry that she was about to explode. However, since Ken was staring at her, she could only brace herself and walk forward to scan the QR code.

Soon, 200 thousand dollars was transferred to Melody’s account. Melody said calmly, “You can leave now. I hope this won’t happen again.”

Jessica forced a smile and pulled her son, leaving away

The two teachers were particularly adept at flattery. They approached and said, “We’re truly sorry for this incident. We didn’t expect something like this to happen. We’ll definitely pay more attention to Shane in the future.”

“You should pay attention to it. When children fight in kindergarten, teachers should stop them in time, not let the situation develop, and even hide the truth from their parents,” Melody warned with a cold expression. “If such a dereliction of duty happens again, I can guarantee you will lose this job.”

The kindergarten was small, but it was a prestigious one in Silverlake and well–oiled, so no one would want to leave.

Hearing this, the two teachers nodded repeatedly and promised.

Melody did not want to push things too far. She warned them a few more times before letting them leave.

Soon, only their group remained at the kindergarten gate.

Melody asked James to bring Shane into the car, then turned to thank Ken sincerely. “Thank you for today. If it weren’t for you, this matter wouldn’t have been resolved so quickly.”

Ken took out a cigarette and said lazily, “Thank me? What are you going to thank me with?”

Melody frowned slightly.

“You’re so rich, yet you still want me to give you the 200 thousand dollars? Isn’t that a little too much?”

Ken paused and chuckled. “Melody, I’m really curious about what kind of person I am in your heart.”

‘You are a damn capitalist!

Of course, Melody did not say it explicitly. She held firm, saying, “30-70, you take 30, I take 70. No more!”

Ken could not help but raise his hand and knock her on the head.

“I don’t want your money! I’m hungry. Go to my house and cook me a meal to settle the bill.”

Melody’s eyes widened in surprise. “That’s it?”

Otherwise? Do you think there’s anything else on you that’s worth asking for?”

Melody pursed her lips unhappily and nodded in agreement. “No problem!”

Wouldn’t it be better to be squeezed out of labor than split up the money?

She paused, then asked, “Can I bring Shane?”

“Wilmot’s son?”

Yes!”

Ken’s face turned cold. “Are you really planning to be someone’s stepmother?”

“How is that possible? Wilmot is currently on a business trip and can’t come back. Shane definitely can’t go to kindergarten this afternoon. I’m worried about leaving him alone at home,” said Melody, adding, “Wilmot has helped me a lot, and I can’t neglect Shane. Could you please do me this favor?”

Ken’s gaze was cold. He tugged at his tie and said expressionlessly, “Just this once.”

“Thank you!”

Melody quickly thanked him. However, when she saw Ken lighting a cigarette and was about to smoke, she subconsciously reached out and snatched the cigarette between his fingers. She frowned and said, “Why are you still smoking when you have a cold? Aren’t you afraid that it will become pneumonia?”

Ken slightly smirked as looked at her with a meaningful gaze.

Melody was about to find out the meaning of that deep gaze when Ken suddenly chuckled and said, “Marriage is indeed different. No wonder people say that marriage is the grave of smoke.”

“What grave of smoke? Marriage is the place of love.”

After Melody finished speaking, she saw Ken looking at her with a faint smile.

For a moment, her back stiffened. She coughed awkwardly and said, “This is advice from the doctor. Take it or leave it. I’ll get in the car first.”

With that, she hurriedly got into the car.

Ken looked at Melody’s hurried back and the smile in his eyes deepened. Then, he also stepped into the car.

Neither of them noticed that there was a silver–gray Mercedes–Benz parked not far away. A woman was staring at them until the car drove away from the kindergarten, only then did she fiercely look away.

“Bitch!”

In the car, Janet’s nails dug into the steering wheel, and with a “click‘ one of her nails broke into two pieces.

She gasped in pain and slammed the steering wheel.

The car let out a longhorn, attracting the attention of passers-by.

Meanwhile, Melody was carefully checking the condition of Shane in the car.

After confirming he was not injured and had only lost a button, she finally felt relieved.

Shane had already calmed down. He stared at Ken with his big eyes.

Ken frowned unhappily. “What are you looking at?”

Shane was shocked and immediately shrank into Melody’s arms.

Melody quickly patted Shane’s back comfortingly and scolded Ken, “Why are you scaring a child?”

Ken sneered. “I’m not scaring him. He’s just timid.”

Melody rolled her eyes at Ken and turned to comfort Shane. “Shane, don’t be afraid. He’s not a bad person.”

“You…”

Shane nodded and asked hesitantly, “Melody, is he your boyfriend?”

“He’s not…”

I’m not her boyfriend,” Ken said with a faint smile. “I’m her husband,”

Melody’s back stiffened as she looked at Ken. “What nonsense are you spouting in front of a child?”

“Am I spouting nonsense?” Ken looked sideways at her.

Melody looked away uncomfortably. She heard Shane say unhappily, “No! Melody can’t marry you!”

Ken said in amusement, “Why can’t she marry me?”

“She’s my dad’s!” Shane hugged Melody tightly, wanting to use this opportunity to declare his ownership.

Ken said coldly, “Then please tell your dad that she has already married me.”

Chapter 198

Shane immediately turned angry and crawled over to bite Ken.

Ken crossed his arms over his chest and said, “Try biting me if you dare.”

The sight of the two, one big and one small, caused Melody to burst into laughter.

Seeing that Shane was about to cry, Melody said helplessly, “Shane is just a few years old. Can’t you give in to him a little?”

Ken glanced at her with a displeased gaze.

“Why should I give in to him?”

Melody choked. For a moment, she did not know what to say. She could only turn to look at Shane.

Shane’s cheeks were puffed up like a little pufferfish. He also looked unwilling to admit defeat.

Melody shrugged. “Alright, you two go ahead and fight. I’ll take a nap first, let me know who wins when you’re done.”

After saying that, she curled up by the car window and really didn’t care about anyone else. She just closed her eyes and rested.

When Ken and Shane saw this, they looked at each other and then looked away without saying anything else.

Only then did the car return to silence.

James, who was driving, looked at the rearview mirror with a strange expression.

Why did he feel that Mr. Swanson’s words and actions did not resemble a nobleman at all?

Could it be that he was possessed by a ghost or something?

Thinking of this possibility, James glanced at the rearview mirror again.

However, he met Ken’s sharp gaze through the rearview mirror. He was so frightened that he immediately did not dare to be distracted and obediently did his job as a driver.

Soon, they arrived at Serenity Villa.

The moment the car stopped, Melody immediately sensed it and quickly opened her eyes.

But she noticed that Shane, who was beside her, had fallen asleep with his head resting on her lap and his two small feet pressing against Ken’s back.

Ken picked up Shane’s foot with one hand in disdain and was about to move away.

“Don’t move,” Melody said in a low voice. “It’s not easy for a child to fall asleep. If he wakes up later, he’ll start fussing again.”

As she spoke, she reached out to lift Shane up.

“I’ll do it,” Ken said expressionlessly. Then, under her surprised gaze, he easily carried Shane and walked out.

Melody was stunned for a moment before she quickly came back to her senses and got out of the car to follow Ken.

However, Ken had large paces and left her behind. When she entered the house, she saw Ken already coming out of the guest room on the first floor.

When their eyes met, Ken looked like he was enduring something. He said coldly, “I’ll go upstairs and take a shower. I hope you’ll have finished cooking by the time I come down.”

Only then did Melody notice that his suit jacket was wet. It was obvious that Shane had peed all over him.

Melody was shocked. She was afraid that Ken would get angry. Just as she was about to apologize on behalf of Shane, Ken had already walked upstairs.

Her words were stuck in her throat, and she felt very guilty.

“Miss Fox.” Susan also came out of the guest room and said, “The child has been cleaned up and is sleeping soundly. I’ll go buy him some clothes and diapers. Could I trouble you to look after him in the meantime?”

Melody quickly nodded. “Alright, no problem. Leave it to me.”

Susan quickly left. Melody asked James to go to the guest room to watch Shane, in case he suddenly woke up and looked for her. She then headed into the kitchen.

She surveyed the kitchen and noticed there weren’t many ingredients left. If she went to the supermarket now, she wouldn’t be able to make it in time before Ken finished his shower.

After thinking for a moment, Melody decided to make a pot of rice and beans.

Cooking rice and beans was a bit difficult. The balance of flavors, textures, and other factors all require careful attention.

Those things that usually looked the most ordinary actually took more effort than delicacies.

After deciding on the ingredients in her mind, she called Susan and reminded her to bring back the items she needed.

Soon, the sound of a knife chopping on a cutting board echoed through the kitchen.

When the rice and beans were ready, she mixed in the two things she had asked Susan to bring back, and the dish was considered successful.

Melody also made two other dishes, which were beautifully golden omelets and salads.

She and Susan came out with the dishes one after another and saw Ken leaning against the window smoking again.

The smoke lingered, obscuring half of his face.

James, standing opposite him, asked hesitantly, Mr. Swanson, what should we do now?

Ken reached out to flick the ash out of the window and said sim[ply, investigate.

Alright, James replied promptly, then fell silent before asking, What about the news?

Ken replied with only one word: “Suppress.”

“Yes!” James nodded and quickly left.

As he turned around, he met eyes with Melody. She was about to speak when James quickly looked away and left with a dark expression.

Melody’s heart skipped a beat. Her intuition told her that something big bad happened, and it likely involved her. Otherwise, James wouldn’t reacted that way upon seeing her.

After hesitating for a few seconds, Melody placed the dish on the table and turned to Ken.

She looked at the cigarette between his slender fingers and couldn’t help but go up to take it. She frowned and said, “Wait until you’re over your cold before you smoke again.”
Ken did not comment and asked, “What did you make?

Melody did not answer. Instead, she asked, “What happened?”

Ken remained silent and subconsciously glanced at his phone.

Melody hesitated for a moment before boldly taking the phone from him. She saw a trending topic on his phone screen.

“The CEO of the Swanson Group is suspected of falling for a married Woman.”

She frowned as she clicked on the trending topic to read more details.

The top post prominently featured her photo, where she was with Shane, and Ken stood beside them.

The photo was taken very smartly. The three of them had clearly not done anything, but from the angle of the photo, the three of them looked intimate.

There were countless comments under the post. When she clicked on it, she found that the comments had already surpassed two hundred thousand.

This was even less than half an hour after the post had been made.

The last time there was such a popular post, it was a top celebrity who suddenly announced their marriage.

The most liked reply said, “A rich handsome guy like this has such taste? This girl is so ugly that even if she chased me for 186 miles, I’d only turn around to see if I could steal something from her.”

Except for the comment with the most likes, all the others were awful. They all attacked Melody personally.

Even Melody could not help but feel a little bitter when she saw those comments.

“Stop looking” Ken took back his phone and said coldly, “You don’t have to care. The post will be deleted very soon.”

Melody shook her head and said, “I don’t care about the comments. What I care about is who posted the news.”

I’ve got James looking into it.”

Melody hummed and voiced her guess, “Could it be Jessica?”

Ken denied it directly. “She doesn’t have the guts.”

Melody thought for a while and said, “I see that the person who posted the post has a new account. I don’t think we can find anything from the IP. I suggest starting by checking the surveillance near the kindergarten to see if any suspicious individuals are lurking around.”

“Mm,” Ken replied and said lazily, “I’m hungry.”

Chapter 199

Melody still wanted to talk business with Ken, but he walked towards the dining table as if he did not care about this matter at all.

Melody’s eyes darkened and she smiled self–self-deprecatingly.

She thought, “That’s true. Why should Ken care about these things? None of the comments are scolding him. This scandal does not affect him at all since he is so wealthy and powerful. I still think too highly of myself in Ken’s heart!’

Melody suppressed her emotions and was about to call Shane to get up for lunch when she heard Ken click his tongue at the dining table. His tone was filled with doubt as he asked, “Melody, I helped you earn 200 thousand dollars and you’re giving me this?”

Melody stopped in her tracks and explained, “There’s not much food in the kitchen. This is all I can do.”

Susan quickly explained to Melody, “Mr. Ken, you don’t usually have lunch at home and you like to eat fresh ingredients, so I didn’t stock up on many ingredients in the fridge…”

Melody walked to the dining table and said, “If you can wait, I’ll go to the supermarket to buy groceries now.”

“Forget it.” Ken pulled out a chair and sat down. “Let’s have this for now.”

He scooped a bowl of oatmeal into the bowl and took a sip. Then he tasted the omelet and finally the pickle.

Melody wanted to see from his expression if he was satisfied with what she made, but Ken had the same expression no matter what he ate. She could not see anything and could only ask, “Is the taste okay?”

Ken did not answer. He looked up at her. “Aren’t you going to call that brat out for lunch?”

Melody thought of Shane and quickly walked to the guest room. She did not notice that the corners of Ken’s mouth curled up slightly.

When Susan saw Melody enter the room, she deliberately asked in a low voice, “Mr. Ken, do you need me to go out to buy groceries?”

He did not answer her question. “There is hot food here.”

“What?” Susan looked confused. She only saw Ken’s lips curl up slightly.

Susan was a smart person. Knowing that she did not have to go out to buy groceries anymore, she turned around and returned to the kitchen to clean up.

In the room, Melody finally woke Shane up. When she walked out of the room, Ken was already gone.

She asked Susan with her eyes. Susan pointed upstairs and said softly, “Mr. Deeds is back. They are talking upstairs.”

Melody nodded and sat down to eat oatmeal with Shane.

Shane did not like to eat. He mumbled that he wanted to eat ice cream. Melody tried her best to persuade him, but he only took a sip of the oatmeal. Then, he dived right in. He finished most of the oatmeal and reached out with his small hand and said, “Melody, I want more!”

Melody nodded with a smile. Just as she was about to ask Susan to scoop more, Susan said awkwardly, “Sorry, Mr. Ken has finished the rest. Only your portion is left.”

“What?” Melody could not help but raise her voice. “We made food enough to feed five people.”

Susan rubbed her hands. She was too embarrassed to say that Ken had asked her to store half of it in the fridge and not allow anyone to eat it. She only repeated, “There’s only one bowl left.”

Melody had no choice but to give half a bowl of oatmeal to Shane. Fortunately, she had a small appetite, so half a bowl of oatmeal was enough for her.

After Shane finished, he started yawning again, probably because he was really tired from crying.

She patiently brought Shane back to the guest room and coaxed him to sleep before quietly walking out of the room.

Susan was putting away the dishes. She walked over and asked, “Have they come down?”

Susan shook her head. “Not yet.”

Melody said, “I’ll go up and take a look.”

She thought, ‘What James and Ken are talking about is related to me. I should go up and join them to see if there is anything I can help with.

However, just as Melody reached the door of Ken’s room, she heard Ken’s voice coming from inside. “Are you sure it was released by Janet?”

Melody stopped in her tracks and retracted her hand from the doorknob uncontrollably.

James said, “Yes, it’s confirmed to be Miss Murphy. I haven’t contacted Miss Murphy yet. I don’t know if there’s a misunderstanding.”

“Misunderstanding?” Ken sneered and said, “The surveillance camera has already found out that it’s her. The IP belongs to someone with the last name Murphy. You still think it’s a misunderstanding?”

“Then…” After two seconds of silence, James asked, “Could it be that Miss Murphy has other arrangements? Do you need me to call her over now?”

Ken asked, “No need. Has the post been deleted?”

James said, “It’s deleted. The relevant keywords have also been banned.”

Ken said, “Okay.”

When Melody heard this, she opened the door and entered the room with a natural expression.

Both of them looked at her with different expressions.

Melody asked, “James, did you find anything?”

James glanced at Ken. Ken said indifferently, “We didn’t find anything. The surveillance cameras near the kindergarten happened to malfunction. The IP address of the person who posted is overseas and can’t be located.”

Melody looked deeply at Ken. Then, she nodded slowly. “If you can’t find anything, then forget it.”

Ken paused and said, “Alright. I’m sorry…”

Melody did not want to find out why he was sorry. She suppressed the disappointment in her heart and smiled. “What’s there to be sorry about? I didn’t lose anything. Shane went to sleep again. I am afraid that he will suddenly wake up, so I am going to accompany him. Call me if you need anything. I’ll be in the guest room.”

“Sure.” Ken did not say anything else.

Melody nodded at James and turned to leave.

The moment she closed the door, the smile on her face could no longer be maintained.

She did not stay any longer and quickly went downstairs. She quietly lay beside Shane and stared at the ceiling.

She couldn’t describe her feelings at that moment, but she really couldn’t smile anymore.

However, she was certain of one thing. Between Janet and her, Ken must have chosen Janet.

She didn’t blame anyone but herself for not being strong enough.

After lying down for a while, her phone suddenly rang.

Melody was afraid of disturbing Shane, so she answered the call without looking at the caller ID and said, “Who is it?”

Then, she walked to the bathroom in the guest room.
“Miss Fox, it’s me.” Melody immediately recognized the voice. It was the person she had sent to monitor Mabel.

She closed the bathroom door and gripped her phone tightly. “Go ahead. I’m listening.”

The person said, “As per your instructions, Mabel went to the beauty salon in the morning. After having lunch in Epoch Plaza, she went to Sky Hall.”

The bodyguard was afraid that she didn’t know about that place, so he immediately said,

Melody asked, “Who did she play billiards with?”

The bodyguard said, “Mr. Ulric…”

“Ulric Swanson?” Melody smirked playfully.

She thought, ‘Are these two finally going to start hitting it off?’

“Yes,” the bodyguard said. “Sky Hall has been reserved. I can’t find out what’s going on inside.”

Hall is the place to play billiards.”

“There’s no need to keep an eye on them,” Melody said cautiously, “Retreat immediately. Don’t let Ulric find out.”

“Yes, Miss Fox.” After the call ended, Melody laughed mockingly.

The couple who had taken her life in her previous life were finally entangled again in this life.

However, when the two of them were exposed to being together in her previous life, Ulric’s legs had already been cured by her. In this life, it was much moved up much earlier.

The world was made of many gears. Once a gear changed, there would be a chain reaction, so this was normal.

Just as Melody was thinking about what to do next, someone suddenly knocked on the door.

Chapter 200

The person who knocked on the door was Ken. When he saw Melody open the door, he subconsciously glanced at her expression. He did not know if she had heard what he said to James.

Seeing her calm expression, Ken felt a little relieved. He said, “I have to leave to do something. I’ll be back in about two hours.”

Melody did not want to stay here for even a minute. However, Shane had just fallen asleep. She could only nod. “Okay.”

Ken looked at Shane who was sleeping soundly on the bed and asked, “When is that guy coming to pick him up?”

He was referring to Wilmot.

Melody answered truthfully, “Tonight.”

“Got it,” Ken replied expressionlessly and turned to leave.

Melody looked at Ken’s back in confusion. She thought, ‘He doesn’t seem to like Wilmot. Why?‘

There was no way to find the answer, and she did not want to dwell on such a small matter. After returning to bed, she opened the black market forum on her phone.

This time, she happened to see Wendell Hunter online.

The other party’s profile picture was shaking crazily as if he had sent her many messages.

She was not in a hurry. She clicked on the chat box. The chat box was filled with messages from Wendell. [200 million dollars? You are quite bold to ask for that. Let me tell you, as long as you successfully cure the patient, the perks will be much greater than 200 million dollars. Do you know about the Swanson Group? The person I am asking you to use nine–line acupuncture to cure is the future heir of the Swanson Group, Ulric Swanson. If you cure him, you’ll have countless connections. No matter what you want to do in the future, the Swanson Group will protect you. Isn’t this much more valuable than 200 million dollars?]

However, after a series of messages, Wendell’s tone suddenly became gentle and refined. [Dr. Second, do you really know nine–line acupuncture? I can consider paying you 200 million dollars, but before that, I have to confirm if you’re worth it. It might be a little abrupt for me to say this, but there’s a layer of internet between us. I have to be careful. I hope you can understand.]

Melody’s username on the forum was Seconds. From Wendell’s tone in the second message, Melody quickly determined that those words were not said by Wendell, but by Ulric.

It seemed that Wendell had already told Ulric her request of 200 million dollars.

It was not a small sum even for Ulric. After all, he loved to invest. He would never keep that amount of cash lying around.

It would take some time for Ulric to gather 200 million dollars.

Just as Melody finished reading the messages, she saw another message from him. [Dr. Seconds, do you have time to chat?]

The corners of Melody’s lips curled up slightly. She deliberately waited for a while before replying: [Yes.]

Wendell replied almost instantly: [Dr. Second, it’s an honor to meet you. I wonder if we can meet and talk?]

Melody raised her eyebrows and typed slowly: [The rule of the black market is that we should not show our faces easily before the transaction. I’m also doing this for my safety. I hope you can understand.]

[Understood.] Two seconds later, the other party replied: [I don’t know if you’ve seen my reply before. As long as you can prove nine–line acupuncture, I’ll immediately gather the money to transfer it to you.]

Melody thought for a moment and replied, [Cervical Cl to C5.]

The other party replied with a question mark in confusion.

Melody replied: [Nine–line acupuncture is divided into nine sets of treatments. Each set is for one course of treatment. We need to take action on these parts of your spine bones as the first course of the treatment. If the sequence and places I mentioned are proven to be wrong, I will apologize to you for wasting your time.]

About a minute later, the other party replied: [I’ll confirm it as soon as possible. Please wait for a few days. I can use this time to raise the 200 million dollars.]

Melody did not reply and went offline, leaving with a sense of mystery.

On the other end of the phone, Ulric was playing with the lighter in his hand with a dark look in his eyes. The silver Zippo flipped over the tip of his finger, making Wendell’s heart pound.

Compared to the hot-tempered Astrid Swanson, he was more afraid of Ulric who was usually gentle and smiling.

“Ulric…” Wendell said nervously, “What did that person say?”

Ulric threw his phone to Wendell and picked up a billiard cue. He smiled gently and said, “Wendell, do you want to play?”

Wendell looked at the smile on Ulric’s face and cold sweat broke out on his forehead.

“What? Do you think I suck at this game?” Ulric’s smile deepened.

“Of course not!” Wendell did not dare to ask about the forum anymore. He quickly said, “How do you want to play?”

Ulric gave the bodyguard beside him a look. The bodyguard immediately went forward to tidy up the table.

While waiting, Ulric said calmly, “If you win, I’ll help you bring Cadence out of the hospital. If you lose… you have to keep practicing billiards here.”

Cadence could not leave the mental hospital. The hospital was filled with Ken’s staff. He did not even have the chance to visit her.

Upon hearing this, Wendell swallowed hard and said excitedly, “Alright!”

If he lost, he didn’t think the punishment was severe. This was a bet that he would definitely earn.

Ulric smirked and slowly said, “Wendell, you don’t mind letting a cripple like me kick off first, right?”

The veins on Wendell’s forehead bulged. He deliberated over his words and said, “Of course, you can kick off first…”

“Alright.” Ulric wiped the pool cue and half–bowed to aim at the target ball.

With a snap, the collateral effect of the cue ball caused four balls to fall into the pocket one after another.

“Nicely done!” Wendell laughed and clapped as he praised.

But soon, Wendell could not laugh anymore because the last ball on the table fell into the pocket. He had already lost before he even started.

“This…” Wendell’s face twitched as he looked at Ulric uneasily.

Ulric threw the billiard cue into his arms and said with a smile, “Looks like you have lost. Then fulfill your promise and practice here.”

“Ulric!” Wendell was anxious. He quickly walked forward and said, “Cadence is your cousin. When the news broke, her career was already ruined. If you don’t help her, her life will be completely over!”

Ulric shrugged. “Don’t you already lose?”

Wendell was speechless.

Ulric’s face suddenly darkened as he looked at him coldly. “It wasn’t easy for us to find clues about nine–line acupuncture. How dare you almost offend that person? Consider what happened to Cadence a small lesson for you. You should be glad that you’re my mother’s brother. Otherwise… you’d be a corpse now.”

Wendell was so frightened that he trembled. The blood in his body seemed to have frozen in an instant.

In the next second, Ulric smiled again and patted his shoulder gently. “Get to practice. Don’t leave until I’m satisfied. Anyway, there’s no need for you to go back to the Swanson Group. You have nothing to do, right?”

Prev | Next 

Chapter 191 – Hypocrite

Russell’s face darkened. He was so embarrassed that he could not show his face.

“I, I just…”

“Alright.” Ken raised his hand. “It’s getting late. I won’t disturb you anymore. I’ll take my leave first.”

Russell quickly responded and waved for Melody to see Ken off.

Since the two of them were “friends“, it was naturally better than him sending Ken off.

If one of his two daughters could marry Ken and the other could marry Ulric, what was the point of worrying about the company? He just had to rest easy.

Melody immediately saw through Russell’s thoughts, but her expression did not change. She only nodded slightly and gestured for Ken to go ahead.

After walking out of the villa, Melody looked at Ken beside her and said, “Thank you for today. Not only did you help me solve the bank card problem, but you also solved what happened to the Lawrence family. I… I don’t know how to repay you.”

“Repay me?” Ken glanced at her lightly, cleared his throat, and said, “Just help me find Zack. That’s the greatest repayment you can offer me. Also, remember to ice your face when you get back. I don’t want to see a swollen face in front of me.”

Melody, who was full of gratitude just now, could not continue to express her gratitude. She simply nodded and said, “I will do my best to find Zack.”

Under the shadow of the street lamp, the red spots and bumps on her face became blurry, vaguely revealing her real face.

Her beauty was so breathtaking that it almost defied description in words.

Ken was in a daze, instinctively trying to see more clearly, but Melody took a step back and waved her hand, saying, “Drive safely. I’ll head back now.”

With that, she turned and headed back to the villa, quickly disappearing from sight.

James went forward and said, “Mr. Swanson, it’s very late. Shall I send you back?”

After he finished speaking, he saw Ken staring at Melody’s back without moving.

“She…”

Ken spat out a word, saying nothing more.

James asked in confusion, “She? Miss Fox? What’s wrong with her? Do you still need to talk to her about something?”

James’s series of questions snapped Ken back to his senses.

He shook his head. “Nothing. I must have been mistaken.”

James was even more confused, but Ken had already started walking towards the car.

He hurried to catch up, but Ken said, “No need to send me off. Stay around here. If anything similar to today happens again, inform me immediately, just like you did this time.”

“Yes.” James nodded hesitantly. Since when did Mr. Swanson become so concerned about such matters?

However, he quickly pushed the thought aside, pondering only one question: How did Miss Fox know that the house prices were going to rise? Did she have a keen investment mind? If so, maybe he should seek some investment advice from Miss Fox tomorrow.

On the other side.

After Melody returned to the living room, Maria was already too tired to stay up and returned to her room to rest.

Meanwhile, Mabel cried in Yolanda’s arms, her crying heartbreaking to hear.

Russell spoke up with a pained expression, “Alright, stop crying. Since it’s a misunderstanding, it’s fine. Go back to your room and reflect on yourself. In the future, if you encounter such situations, you can’t just not say anything because you’re scared.”

Melody looked at this scene indifferently and said coldly, “Dad.”

Russell quickly came back to his senses, “Mm.” Melody smiled as if she had never heard what Russell had just said.

“Dad, I’m a bit tired today and my face hurts. I’d like to go back to my room and rest.”

Russell was stunned, overwhelmed with guilt and regret. “It’s all my fault. I apologize to you, and I promise I will never hit you again.”

Melody smiled weakly, saying nothing, and turned to walk towards her room.

Seeing Melody’s slender figure walking away, Russell suddenly felt sorry for her.

They were both daughters, but what had he done?

Sitting smugly on the sofa, Yolanda knew that Russell ultimately favored Mabel more. However, when she saw Russell’s expression as he looked at Melody, her good mood instantly vanished, replaced by an overwhelming sense of danger.

This was not good.

If this continued, Russell’s love would probably be split in half with Melody.

She needed to think of a way to deal with this, instead of acting rashly like she did today.

After Melody left, Russell’s expression turned cold again.

“All of you, go upstairs! I’m annoyed just by looking at you!”

Yolanda became even more shocked and hurriedly dragged the still–crying Mabel upstairs.

The night grew deeper.

At the entrance of the Serenity Villa.

The doorbell rang urgently.

At this late hour, Susan was puzzled by the unexpected visitor and thought it might be Melody who had forgotten something. She hurried to open the door.

“Miss Fox…”

She blurted out before realizing the one standing at the door was a strange man dressed in a butler’s uniform.

“Who are you?” Susan asked cautiously, stepping back.

“Hello, I’m the butler of the Swanson.

family.” The butler introduced himself and asked, “Is Mr. Swanson already asleep?”

Susan understood who he was and quickly replied, “I don’t think so. He just came back from work. Please wait a moment, I’ll go upstairs and call him.”

“No need,” Ken’s voice echoed from the staircase.

Susan quickly reported, “Sir, the butler from the Swanson family is looking for you.”

Ken nodded slightly, gesturing for Susan to go to her room. Then, he asked softly, “What’s the matter?”

Just as the butler was about to speak, Ulric’s voice came from behind, saying, “Ken, Cadence is in trouble. Grandma wants you to come back.”

Ken looked at Ulric coldly.

Ulric stood upright with his prosthetic leg, wearing a gentle smile on his face. His voice carried a false tone of apology as he said, “Sorry, Ken, for disturbing you so late. Grandma is really anxious and wants to go out in the middle of the night. We were afraid we couldn’t stop her, so we came to find you.”

Ken’s expression became even more indifferent.

For such a matter, he could have just made a call. Why did he have to drag his crippled leg over? He had done a lot to save face.

Ken said indifferently, “Got it.”

Ulric nodded and suddenly asked, “Melody was here?”

He had heard what the maid said just now. Ken had never allowed anyone to enter this villa, but Melody was an exception. This truly surprised him. He could not understand Ken’s thoughts at all.

Ken stopped in his tracks when he returned to his room to change his clothes. He turned around and snorted. “Are you too idle because you can’t move around? Who I let into my house doesn’t seem to be your business, right?”

As he spoke, he completely disregarded the butler standing beside him and did not give Ulric any face.

Ulric’s smile remained on his face as he nodded apologetically. “My mistake. I shouldn’t have asked so much. You’re a couple, so it’s normal for her to come to your house. I just didn’t expect she’d be so special to you.”

Ken sneered. “Special? If you like her, should I give her to you? Oh, sorry, I forgot, for you, whether there’s a woman or not, it’s all the same. You can’t do anything.”

Ulric could no longer maintain the smile on his face. He said hoarsely, “I’ll wait for you in the car.”

With that, he turned around and left, his originally refined and genial face instantly turning cold and grim.

Chapter 192 – It’s Our Loss

When the butler saw Ulric leave, he hurriedly nodded to Ken, turned around, and followed after him.

Watching the two of them leave, Ken narrowed his cold eyes and turned to walk toward the bedroom.

Half an hour later, two cars stopped at the entrance of the Swanson villa.

Inside the brightly lit mansion, as soon as Ken entered the living room, he heard Margaret on the landline saying, “What’s wrong with her? She was perfectly fine. You must be mistaken…”

Astrid had already changed into her clothes and was preparing to leave when she saw Ken standing at the doorway.

She immediately put on a smile, looking like a caring mother.

“Why are you going out in such thin clothing? It’s late at night, you should wear a coat,” Astrid said, calling a servant to fetch Ulric’s overcoat hanging in the living room. She reached out to help Ken put it on.

Ken stepped back coldly, causing Astrid’s hand to awkwardly hang in mid-air.

However, she was used to finding an excuse for herself. She smiled and said, “You young people aren’t afraid of the cold. Don’t blame me if you catch a cold later.”

Ken didn’t respond at all and walked straight toward Margaret.

“Grandma, I’m back.”

Seeing him, Margaret seemed to find her backbone.

“Ken, have you heard? Do you think Cadence will inherit her mother’s traits? Although she often speaks without discretion and does foolish things, she was raised by me. I’m really worried that she might end up like her mother. Her mother jumped off a building and died. I’m really worried…”

Ken gently held Margaret’s hand and reassured her in a soft voice, “It won’t happen, Grandma. Medical science has advanced significantly. She will be fine, trust me.”

Margaret shook her head. “I can’t rest easy, I have to go to her house to take a look.”

“Grandma.” Ken stopped her. “It’s already very late, and you’ve just recovered from your illness. It’s not good for you to be rushing around. How about I go check on her?”

Margaret hesitated for a moment, then nodded. “Alright, but you must keep a close eye on her for me.”

“Sure.”

After reassuring Margaret, Ken asked Astrid to stay behind and brought a psychiatrist with him as he headed alone to Cadence’s house.

Wendell waited anxiously for Astrid but was surprised to see Ken arrive instead.

When he saw Ken, he had a bad feeling. He smiled stiffly and said, “Mr. Swanson, why are you here?”

Given that Ken was his nephew, he should have called him by his name, but after interacting with him for this period of time, he no longer dared to call him that.

“I’m here to see her for Grandma,” Ken said, motioning for the psychiatrist and two bodyguards to Cadence’s room.

At that moment, Cadence was speaking incoherently, repeatedly murmuring “Don’t bite me.”

Ken said expressionlessly, “Doctor, in this situation, shouldn’t we just send her to a mental hospital?”

The doctor paused for a moment, then instantly understood what Ken meant when he saw the look in his eyes.

“Yes, it’s a dangerous situation, with a possibility of self–harm. It’s best to send her to a mental hospital and start intervention immediately.”

“Okay, let’s do that. Get an anesthetic to ensure her safety on the way.”

Two minutes later.

Wendell, who was stopped outside the door, felt a jolt in his heart as he saw his daughter being carried by bodyguards, unconscious.

“Mr. Swanson? Cadence…

“The doctor advised sending her directly to the mental hospital for her own safety.”

“What?” Wendell’s expression instantly changed. “This won’t do! If word gets out, her career will be ruined?”

Ken said indifferently, “I’m doing this for her own good.”

“No!”

Wendell moved forward to stop the bodyguards, but suddenly, a dozen more appeared out of nowhere, surrounding him.

“Ken! What are you doing? If you want to deal with me, come to me! Cadence grew up with you. She has never offended you. Why are you treating her like this? Don’t you think you’re too cruel?”

Ken sneered lightly. “I could even cripple Ulric’s legs. What are you compared to him?”

Wendell straightened his back in shock.

Ken even admitted to this matter. What did he mean? Was he really going to disregard their past relationship and attack Cadence?

The bodyguard carried Cadence out.

Wendell suddenly widened his eyes and rushed towards Cadence crazily. However, before he could take more than a few steps, a bodyguard swiftly knocked him unconscious with a chop, and he slumped to the ground.

Ken did not even look at Wendell. He ordered the bodyguards coldly, “Guard this place, and don’t let him go out or contact anyone before tomorrow.”

“Yes!”

Having done all this, Ken drove away, his car disappearing into the mist of the late night.

The next day.

Melody unusually slept in lazily. Things that happened yesterday had left her physically and mentally exhausted, so when she woke up, she found the sun already high in the sky.

She reached for her phone to check the time, but as soon as she unlocked it, a breaking news headline automatically popped up.

“Breaking News! Famous model and fashion designer, Cadence Hunter, suddenly had a mental illness yesterday. She’s currently at the Silverlake Mental Health Center for treatment. Please click for details…”

Upon seeing Cadence’s name, any drowsiness Melody felt immediately vanished.

She clicked on the news and saw the headline image on the top, showing Cadence being escorted into the hospital by two mental health professionals, one on each side. Despite the side view, she could clearly recognize Cadence.

Cadence wasn’t yet famous enough to be followed by paparazzi late at night. Even if they did catch her, given her relationship with the Swanson family, such news shouldn’t have surfaced.

Melody stared at the attached photo for a few seconds before calling Ken.

The phone was answered almost immediately, but instead of Ken’s voice, a strange male voice came through first.

“The final review from Miss Murphy has passed, but I feel we still need to enhance user experience before making a final decision. We seem to disagree on this point…”

When Melody heard this, she knew that Ken was at Ximber Tech. She quickly said, “I’m sorry to disturb you. I’ll call back later.”

She was about to hang up the phone when she heard Ken say, “No need.” Then he added, “You can go out first. I’ll have someone test the product and then provide detailed feedback.”

The man on the other end replied, “Yes.” Then, there was the sound of the door closing.

“What’s wrong?” Ken’s voice was low and hoarse. As a doctor, Melody knew that he had a cold.

She paused, holding her phone. “I saw a news article.”

‘About Cadence’s?”

Chapter 193 – Warning

We were the ones at a loss.

His low, hoarse voice caused a ripple in the depths of Melody’s heart, without her even noticing.

Melody remained silent for a few seconds before asking the question that had been on her mind: “Why?”

Why did he help her so much?

Wasn’t Cadence his cousin?

Why would he go to such lengths to deal with his own family for an outsider?

“What do you mean ‘why‘?” Ken’s tone was filled with doubt as if it was natural for him to help her teach Cadence a lesson.

Melody did not know how to answer. She took a deep breath and asked, “Does Astrid know that you did it? And Margaret…”

“Those aren’t things you should worry about. Your job is just to dig up Zack.”

Melody pursed her lips and said, “I understand. About Zack, I already have a plan. Don’t worry.”

“Mm. Anything else?”

“That’s all…”

She was about to hang up when Ken suddenly asked, “How did you know that Eastern Garden would rise?”

Melody’s heart skipped a beat, feeling as if Ken had seen through a secret.

Her mind raced quickly, contemplating how to explain, when Ken chuckled and said, “Based on what you said earlier, I’ve already bought all the land near Bliss Mountain. If it rises, I’ll split the profits with you.”

Melody was surprised. Bliss Mountain was where she went to gather herbs for Margaret. That piece of land would increase greatly in the future. She just did not expect Ken to still remember that incident.

Had he guessed something?

Melody was about to speak when Ken spoke again, “I still have something on. I’ll hang up now.”

“Oh… okay.” Melody quickly hung up the phone and sat on the bed, her mind blank for a couple of seconds.

He shouldn’t have guessed anything, right?

But if he didn’t guess anything, why did he buy all the land near Bliss Mountain?

Melody shook her head, telling herself that no one could think that someone would really come back to life. Then, she felt a little relieved.

After washing up, she went to check Maria’s pulse, then headed out to Herbatrive to see if Ford had come looking for her.

However, as soon as she walked into the living room, Melody bumped into Russell, who was about to leave.

When Russell saw her, a smile immediately appeared on his originally cold face.

“Melody, are you going out?”

“Yes.” Melody nodded. “I woke up late today. I plan to go get some medicine and check on the injury on my face.”

Her cheek had been iced overnight, and although the swelling had subsided, there were still finger marks on her face.

Russell immediately choked and said guiltily, “Go quickly. I’ll arrange a driver for you another day. It’s not convenient for you to go back and forth to work at the headhunting company.”

Melody did want Russell to feel guilty, and upon hearing his words, she shook her head sensibly and said, “You work so hard, so I don’t want to waste your money. The office isn’t far, I can just take the subway a few times to get there.”

In fact, she had a free driver, James, every day and had never taken the subway.

When Russell heard this, he felt even more uncomfortable. He looked at Melody with a gentler gaze.

“You’re still the sensible one, unlike your sister who spends money like water.”

As soon as he finished speaking, footsteps sounded on the stairs.

Melody looked sideways and realized it was Yolanda.

Russell also saw Yolanda. He immediately frowned and urged coldly. “Hurry up!”

Seeing Melody there too, Yolanda quickened her pace uneasily and asked in a low voice, “Aren’t we bringing Mabel along?”

“What bring? Are you not embarrassed enough?”

Yolanda’s expression darkened further, but she didn’t dare to retort.

Russell asked in a deep voice, “Have you brought the gifts? When seeking help, you must present yourself properly.”

Yolanda hurriedly nodded. “I brought them all…”

Upon hearing this, Melody realized that these two were out to arrange Mabel’s qualification for the Best Celebrity competition.

After calculating the timing of the event, she suddenly spoke up, “Dad, are you guys out to arrange for Mabel’s competition qualification?”

Russell’s expression was stiff as he nodded and said unhappily, “I have to clean up their mess! You’re still the sensible one who never causes trouble for me.”

Melody found the situation somewhat amusing but held back and got to the point, “Dad… could you also help me get a spot in the competition? I’d like to broaden my horizons too…”

Upon hearing this, Yolanda’s face immediately showed a mocking expression.

However, due to what happened last night, she forcefully swallowed her mocking words.

Russell was initially surprised by Melody’s request but then agreed, “Alright! I will sign you up. But if you don’t pass the preliminary round, don’t be upset. Your ambitions are high, and your abilities aren’t here.”

His words were tactful, but Melody sensed that he was implying she might not even pass the preliminary round.

She smiled and nodded. “Got it. Thank you, Dad.”

Yolanda looked very uncomfortable. She wanted to say something but hesitated. In the end, she did not dare to say anything, lowered her head, and followed Russell out.

Melody was about to leave when she saw Mabel coming downstairs.

She was dressed exquisitely in a light gray dress, making her skin look so bright.

Melody raised her eyebrows and said faintly, “Mabel, weren’t you supposed to reflect at home? Where are you going? Does Dad know that you’re going out?”

Mabel was originally in a good mood, but when she heard Melody’s words, she was instantly enraged. Her expression was extremely grim.

She gritted her teeth hard and said, “Melody, consider yourself lucky yesterday! But don’t think I don’t know anything. You were the one who placed that bracelet on me!”

Melody said calmly, “Mabel, the matter has already been settled. Why are you still accusing me? Finding something means returning it. Otherwise, it’s stealing. Don’t you understand this principle at your age?”

“You bitch!” Mabel raised her hand to slap her.

But Melody caught her wrist firmly and squeezed it, her expression ambiguous as she said, “Mabel, don’t think I don’t know what you’re using that 4 million dollars for. I’ve been busy these days. You better behave, or… you know the consequences.”

Mabel’s hand was in pain from Melody’s grip. She was about to counterattack with her other hand when she heard Melody’s words. Her entire body instantly stiffened, freezing in place.

She didn’t expect Melody to actually know about her involvement in the black market.

Her lips turned pale as she looked at Melody in disbelief.

“You…”

Melody suddenly let go of her grip and said expressionlessly, “You’d better remember what I said. Otherwise, no one can help you.”

With that, she turned around and walked out, not bothering to look at Mabel’s pale face.

Walking out of the villa, Melody assigned one of the bodyguards left by Ken to keep an eye on Mabel.

“Report everything to me, where she goes and whom she meets.”

After giving her instructions, she turned around and got into James’s car. She said, “Go to Herbathrive.”

“Alright!”

With James’s unusually enthusiastic reply, Melody couldn’t help but glance at him and ask, “Are you okay?”

Chapter 194 – Know a Little

James‘ face stiffened, realizing he had been too obvious. He decided to cut to the chase and said, “Miss Fox, your taste in real estate is truly exceptional. Last night, I tried using my connections to see if there were any units left at the Eastern Garden. Turns out, they were all sold out long ago… not a single unit left.”

Melody guessed what James wanted to know. She said calmly, “Eastern Garden can be considered lucky. If you want to know if there are any similar buildings, I can only apologize.”

James looked embarrassed.

“Fine…”

After a pause, he asked, “How did you know that Eastern Garden would increase?”

Melody casually said, “Traditional medicine and geography actually have some connection. The Eastern Garden has a good geographical environment, and after my real-time observations and cooperation, I confirmed that prices there will rise.”

James’s eyes widened. “I didn’t expect you to know about that!”

“I know a little…” She couldn’t make it up anymore and changed the topic. “Is the amateur chess competition in Silverlake about to begin?”

James paused for a moment, then said, “Yeah, I think so. It’s starting in a few days, right? Why do you suddenly ask about this?”

Melody said concisely, “Zack only has one hobby, playing chess.”

James instantly understood. “Got it. I’ll arrange for chess experts to participate to get close to Zack.”

Melody looked at James and said, “You’ve misunderstood me. I need you to arrange a spot for me. I’ll participate personally.”

James was stunned and asked, “Don’t tell me you know how to play chess.”

“I know a little…”

James could not quite grasp the scale of “knows a little“. He cleared his throat, and said, “Actually, Mr. Swanson is also a chess master. He won first place in the national youth chess competition when he was very young. If you need, he can give you a quick lesson.”

Melody smiled and said, “I’ll look for him if I need him. Thank you.”

James felt a little regretful when he heard this.

If Jane knew that he had taken the initiative to arrange for Miss Fox to get close to Mr. Swanson, she would probably think he had betrayed her again.

He sighed inwardly and sped up without another word.

The car quickly arrived at the entrance of Herbathrive. However, when Melody asked David, he said, “No one came to look for you, let alone the old man you described.”

“Alright… Melody felt a bit disappointed, but quickly pulled herself together and went to the backyard to find Beverly and Colin.

She handed over a prescription and said, “This is the prescription I wrote. Follow this regimen for half a month to prepare your body for the surgery.

Beverly was afraid of the surgery and asked, “Melody, can you come to the hospital to accompany me during the surgery? I’m a little worried…

Melody nodded and agreed without hesitation. Only then did Beverly’s expression relax a little.

“I’m making you some chestnut cake. It’s delicious. I’m almost done with them. Don’t be in a hurry to leave!”

Melody smiled and nodded. She watched Beverly go to the kitchen to get busy.

As Beverly walked away, Colin spoke up to Melody, saying, “Melody, I’ve got some news about the Taylor family that you asked me to inquire about.”

Melody raised an eyebrow. “Are you referring to the Taylor family that owns Green Velvet?”

Colin nodded. “Coincidentally, Ruby came to see me yesterday afternoon. Can you guess what illness she came to see me for?”

Melody replied without hesitation, “Infertility.”

Colin looked at her in surprise and asked, “How did you know?”

“I guessed,” she said simply.

Colin nodded with a thumbs–up. “Exactly, it’s infertility! They’ve seen many doctors and specialists in the country, but haven’t been successful in having a child. So she came to see me without Mason knowing.”

Melody asked in confusion, “Why would Ruby keep it a secret from Mason?”

“Because Ruby has been the one seeking medical care all along, and Mason has never accompanied her. So, she suspects it might be her husband’s issue. Yesterday, I carefully examined her pulse and found that she doesn’t have any fertility issues, Colin explained.

Melody nodded. “Sometimes when couples struggle to have children, it’s often due to issues on the man’s side.”

“Yes,” Colin said awkwardly, “But between me and my wife, it’s definitely not my issue.”

Melody chuckled softly. “I know. Once her stomach is better, I’ll prescribe something for her.”

Colin nodded repeatedly and scratched his head in embarrassment. “I’ve embarrassed myself in front of you. After all, no man will admit that they have fertility problems.”

Melody nodded. “It’s true for all men, let alone Mason. Born in a wealthy family, he wouldn’t easily set aside his pride to investigate any issues in that area.”

Colin nodded in agreement. “I recommended you to her. When would you have time to meet her?”

“I don’t have much to do these few days. I can adjust my schedule to meet her whenever she’s available,” Melody replied.

“Great.” Colin nodded. “I’ll go confirm the time with her shortly.”

They talked about the Taylor family for a while, and just then Beverly finished making the chestnut cakes and brought them out.

The golden chestnut cake looked appetizing.

Melody took a bite, and the rich taste of chestnut paste mixed with the sandy filling made her eyes light up.

“Delicious!” Melody raised her thumb and said, “You should open a shop. I will definitely be a loyal customer!”

Beverly was very happy.

“It’s good that you like it. From now on, every time you come, I’ll make it for you.”

Colin pretended to be jealous. “Honey, you treat Melody much better than you treat me!”

Beverly playfully stuffed a piece of chestnut cake into Colin’s mouth. “Now you can’t talk with your mouth full!”

Melody looked at this scene and had an idea.

She roughly knew what method to use to treat Mason.

After leaving Herbathrive, Melody casually logged into the black market forum.

She saw a message from Wendell in her private message.

She quickly clicked on the message.

[Do you really know Nine–Line Needle Acupuncture? If you do, I’ll increase the reward tenfold!]

“Tenfold?”

Melody chuckled mockingly and typed a line in the reply box: [I don’t come out easily. Unless you offer me 200 million dollars, not a penny less, I won’t take this job.]

After replying, she saw that Wendell was not online, so she went to the other sections of the forum to take a look.

There was a post at the top with more than 20 pages of replies.

She clicked on it with interest and saw that the post was actually discussing Eastern Garden.

“The people who bought Eastern Garden are really rich. At this rate, they’ll earn at least ten times more.”

“I heard that a godly person who knows internal information bought fifteen sets in one go. Huh, it’s really better to be in politics than in business.

Melody realized that they were referring to her.

She exited the forum with waning interest, about to check if there were any jobs available when a breaking news notification from Silverlake popped up on her phone.

Chapter 195 – Fight

“Breaking news! Silk Beauty Cosmetics has launched a new product, All–Purpose Water. Wilmot Sherman, Chairman of Icy Clear Cosmetics, has filed a lawsuit against Silk Beauty Cosmetics.”

“Wilmot Sherman?‘ Melody was surprised to find out that Wilmot was the chairman of a well–known domestic cosmetics company in the country. The company’s market value exceeded one billion dollars.

She was astonished to realize that her knowledge of Wilmot was so limited that she had always thought he was just a well–known stylist with a few beauty and styling shops.

She carefully read the news and discovered that Wilmot suspected that the formula for Silk Beauty Cosmetics’s newly launched All–Purpose Water was stolen formula.

In the news, Wilmot claimed that the formula for All–Purpose Water highly overlaps with the flagship product Golden Water of Icy Clear Cosmetics. He alleged that Silk Beauty had poached internal employees from Icy Clear Cosmetics to obtain the formula for Golden Water.

On the other hand, Silk Beauty vehemently denied it and repeatedly emphasized in interviews that their All–Purpose Water had significantly better effects than Golden Water, yet the price was half as low.

One could imagine that the launch of All–Purpose Water would pose a significant threat to Icy Clear Cosmetics.

Melody specifically checked Icy Clear Cosmetics‘ stock after the launch of All–Purpose Water and noticed that its stock plummeted instantly.

She was certain that Wilmot was extremely worried now.

He had helped her many times before, and now was the time she felt she should repay him.

Just as Melody was about to call him, Wilmot happened to call.

She answered the phone in surprise, and before she could ask anything, Wilmot anxiously said, “Melody, could you help me pick up Shane from school?”

Melody hesitated for a moment, then quickly replied, “No problem, but isn’t it too early? The class hasn’t ended yet.”

“Shane got into a fight and got injured. I’m out of town and can’t rush back. Her nanny had to leave for her hometown due to personal matters, and I don’t trust anyone else. After thinking it over, I can only ask for your help,” Wilmot said.

“No problem. Leave Shane to me. Don’t worry, and focus on what you need to do,” Melody said.

“Yes, I’ll definitely be back tonight. Sorry to trouble you,” Wilmot said.

“What trouble? Go back to your work.” Melody hung up the phone and informed James of the kindergarten’s address, then said, “Please drive faster.”

James looked at her with a strange expression and said, “Miss Fox, don’t forget your identity. You are now Mr. Swanson’s legal wife. It doesn’t seem quite appropriate for you to help another man with his child, does it?”

“What wife? Are we married?” Melody asked.

James choked for a moment. It made sense, so he drove to the kindergarten.

During the trip, James secretly told Ken about Melody’s plans without her knowing.

Ximber Tech office.

Ken looked at the message sent by James, his eyes dark and unclear. He reached into his drawer for a cigarette box and slowly lit one.

Standing across the desk reporting work, Janet looked at him with some surprise and quickly reminded him, “Ken, you have a cold, so don’t smoke.”

Ken held the cigarette between his lips, hesitated in lighting it, then impatiently tossed away the lighter. Then, he tapped his finger on the desk and said, “Go on.”

Janet nodded and continued reporting, “The materials from Europe have already…

Halfway through her sentence, she saw Ken suddenly stand up and reach for his coat on the hanger.

She asked in shock, “Ken, are you going out?”

Ken nodded. Without further explanation, he walked out.

Janet hurriedly chased after him. “Where are you going?

“I have something to do. Summarize the work and send it to my email. I’ll review it later.” With that, Ken entered the elevator.

Janet stood in place, her expression grim. A sense of suspicion rose in her mind. Then, she stepped into another elevator.

Two minutes later, a Maybach sped out of the building, followed by a silver Mercedes–Benz.

Meanwhile, at the kindergarten entrance.

Melody anxiously waited at the entrance for a while until she finally saw Shane being led out by the teacher, crying.

“Shane?” Melody hurriedly walked up to him.

Shane looked up and as soon as he saw her, his eyes lit up, and he immediately ran into her arms.

Melody quickly squatted down and hugged Shane firmly, gently asking. “Are you okay, Shane? Let me see if you’re injured.”

Shane did not answer. He only hugged her neck and cried.

Melody could only raise her head and ask the teacher, “Could you please tell me what happened?”

The teacher smiled awkwardly and said vaguely, “Nothing much, just kids playing around.”

Melody frowned. “There must be a reason behind kids playing rough, right?”

Her expression suddenly turned cold. The teacher was a little frightened and looked away in a panic. “It’s, it’s because…”

Before she could finish speaking, a luxury car suddenly stopped behind Melody, its rearview mirror almost hitting her.

The passenger–side door promptly opened, and a stylish woman stepped out. “What’s going on? Who beat up my Neil?”

Melody subconsciously looked over and saw that the woman looked very familiar.

Soon she remembered who this woman was. She was Jessica Summers, the chairwoman of Silk Beauty Cosmetics, whom she had seen in the news before.

It turned out that the person who fought with Shane was actually someone from Silk Beauty Cosmetics.

The kindergarten teacher looked at Melody, then at Jessica, and back at Melody again. Finally, she pointed at Melody and Shane, saying, “It was them.”

Jessica immediately looked at Melody. When she saw Melody’s face, she first opened her mouth in surprise. Then, her gaze landed on Shane. Finally, she smiled mockingly and said, “Wilmot is a stylist, but the woman he found is really tasteless. His taste isn’t that great, is it?”

Melody coldly looked at Jessica and said, “The one fighting with Shane is your child, right? I hope you will immediately bring your child to apologize to Shane.”

Although Melody had only met Shane once, she had a keen eye for people and knew that Shane would never be the type to hit someone without reason.

“Apologize?” Jessica looked incredulous. “That little brat hit my precious son, and you expect us to apologize? Where did you even come from? Do you know who I am?”

“Little brat?” Melody’s gaze was sharp. “Please watch your words!”

“Watch my words? Looks like you really don’t know who I am. I’m…”

Before Jessica could finish speaking, another teacher walked out with a chubby boy.

“Neil!” Jessica didn’t even pay attention to Melody anymore. She hurried over in her high heels and crouched down beside the boy. After quickly checking him and seeing some scratches on his neck and a row of bite marks, her face immediately turned cold. She scolded, “What did Mommy tell you? You have to win fights, but you got beaten up instead? Useless!”

The boy called Neil shrank his neck and said aggrievedly, “Because the other kids were all helping Shane!”

Prev | Next 

Chapter 186 – Strange

“You know, no matter what it is, practice makes perfect. It’s the same with that aspect,” Susan said and winked at her again.

Melody looked confused. “What?”

“Old Miss Fox!” Susan said shyly. “You know..“

“Huh? What?” Melody was even more confused. She felt like she was in the wrong audience and did not understand what Susan was saying at all.

Seeing that she still did not understand, Susan was about to be more straightforward when she heard footsteps coming from the stairs.

It was Ken, “Miss Fox, we’ll talk next time?” Susan smiled and left. She secretly decided to make some nourishing dishes for Ken.

The two of them went out and got into the car. Ken stepped on the accelerator and asked, “What did Susan say to you? Her smile was a little strange.

Melody shook her head and repeated Susan’s words. “I don’t really understand. Do you know what it means?”

She turned her head and saw a hint of discomfort on Ker’s face. He seemed to blush.

She had never seen such a Ken before.

Melody could not help but wave her hand in front of Ken and asked, “What’s wrong?”

“I’m line.” Ken shook his head and said seriously, I’m driving. Don’t block my eyes!”

“Oh..” Melody quickly retracted her hand and asked again, “What does Susan mean I don’t understand.”

“You don’t have to understand, Ken said. He coughed before continuing, “She’s menopausal. Sometimes, her words are incomprehensible”

“I see” Melody was relieved and stopped thinking about Susan.

The next day, Ken looked at the breakfast Oysters with Garlic and could not help but fall into a strange silence.

Of course, that was for later.

When Melody arrived home, it was already completely dark. The moon was in the sky. As soon as Melody got out of the car, she saw Russell’s car In front of the house.

Russell was back.

The lights in the villa were as bright as day, and she had a bad feeling.

After saying goodbye to Ken, Melody took a deep breath and stepped through the door.

As soon as she walked into the living room, a coffee cup flew toward her face.

Melody was shocked and quickly dodged.

The cup slammed into the wall behind her and instantly shattered.

She looked at the living room in shock and saw Mabel cowering in the corner, not daring to make a sound.

Meanwhile, Russell was scolding Yolanda with a livid expression, “I work day and night outside. What did you do! Fairlee called me. How long are you going to hide it from me?”

Yolanda’s eyes were red, and her hands were tightly gripping the hem of her skirt.

She had bribed so many people, hoping that they would not tell anyone what happened at the birthday banquet. However, she did not expect Fairder to be so ruthless as to call Russell directly.

After the incident was exposed, Russell scolded her so badly that she did not know how to answer. When she saw Melody return from the corner of her eye, she immediately had a plan in her mind. She pointed at Melody and said, “It’s all because of her! She was the one who schemed against Mabel and made Mabel a thief in the eyes of those people Russell, you can hit me and scold me, but I have to make this clear. The culprit is Melody!

Russell stopped scolding and glared fiercely at Melody. “Your”

Melody had already guessed what was going on. Just as she was about to speak, Mabel cried pitifully and said, “Dad, you know me best. How can I be the kind of person who steals someone’s bracelet? The one who stole it was clearly Melody! She placed the bracelet she stole from Fairlee on me when I wasn’t paying attention, causing such a misunderstanding. You have to uphold justice!”

“Really?” Russell frowned and asked hesitantly.

“Absolutely! Think about it carefully, have I ever stolen since I was young!” As Mabel spoke, tears ran down her face at the right time. The tears on her face made Mabel’s originally exquisite face look even more pitiful. It made people feel sorry for her.

Seeing this, Russell’s heart immediately became firm.

“Bitch! Come here!” He glared at Melody. He was angry, so his eyes bulged slightly, making him look like a man-eating demon.

Melody looked at Russell, who was on the verge of exploding, and suddenly smiled.

There was mockery and indescribable calmness in her smile

That smile gave Yolanda and Mabel goosebumps.

“Dad.” She took two steps forward and looked at Russell. “Mabel doesn’t steal, but does that mean I steal? Why should I steal the bracelet and frame Mabel? What good would it do me? If the matter is exposed, won’t I be the first to suffer?”

When Russell heard Melody’s words, he could not help but feel suspicious again.

“I swear to God” Melody placed her hand on her chest and said, “If I steal the bracelet. I will be struck by lightning and die a horrible death!”

Her every word was extremely powerful as if she was determined to face the consequences.

Yolanda saw that Russell was starting to waver. She quickly went forward and said, “Swearing is the most useless thing. You framed Mabel and made Mabel lose her father’s trust. This is your motive!”

Mabel said with a hurt expression, “Melody, Dad treats you the same as he treats me. Why did you use this trick to frame me? This is not only embarrassing me but also our entire family. How could you do this? You disappoint me!”

Yolanda and Mabel echoed each other. Russell’s expression turned unpleasant again, and his eyes seemed to be spitting fire. “Melody, tell me what’s going on!”

Melody said calmly, “Dad, Yolanda, don’t forget that the one with the strongest motive is not me. It’s Fairlee! Have you forgotten what happened at Margaret’s birthday party? Because of a misunderstanding. Barclay was injured and hospitalized. Fairlee dotes on Barclay the most. How can she let this go so easily? She even invited us to her birthday party, Wasn’t she clearly trying to frame us”

Russell also knew what happened to the Swanson family. When he heard this, he could not help but look up. “Fairlee…”

Seeing this, Yolanda immediately decided to use her trump card and said, “Russell, let’s not talk about whether Fairlee is behind this. Let’s talk about Melody. She has a criminal record for stealing! Do you know what happened during the few days you were on a business trip?”

“A criminal record? Russell’s anger subsided slightly. He looked at Yolanda with fury in his eyes and asked in a low voice, “What criminal record? What happened in the past few days?”

“My bank card“” Yolanda took out a bank card from her bag and held it in front of Russell. “I suddenly lost 4 million dollars in my bank card!”

Chapter 187 – Strangle You

As soon as Yolanda said that she had lost 4 million dollars, Mabel’s face turned pale.

Memories immediately flashed across her mind.

A few days ago, she really couldn’t stand Melody, who was a thorn in her side, so she secretly took Yolanda’s card to the black market and spent 4 million dollars to hire the top assassins of the black market.

However, for some reason, those assassins returned empty–handed and refused to return her money.

That money was all she had. Her wallet was empty, and she couldn’t maintain her usual social life as a socialite.

However, she did not dare to tell Yolanda about this, so in order to make up for this deficit, she secretly used the card that Yolanda rarely used to make up for her deficit.

Unexpectedly Yolanda actually thought that it was done by Melody,

Mabel panicked for a moment. She did not know if she should make things clear now

However, Mabel did not notice that her expression was seen by Melody. The corners of Melody’s mouth slowly curled into an imperceptible smile.

When Russell heard Yolanda’s words, he could not help but be stunned for two seconds before asking in a louder voice, “Is + million dollars missing from the card? Why are you only telling me such a big thing now!!”

Yolanda pretended to be aggrieved and sniffed. “It’s all because you came back and only scolded me. I didn’t even have the chance to interrupt… Moreover, I can’t publicize this matter. It’s not just Melody’s reputation, but our entire family’s reputation…

Yolanda intentionally accused Melody of being the person who stole the 4 million dollars.

Russell was immediately enraged. He picked up a coffee cup on the coffee table and threw it at Melody’s head angrily.

Melody reacted quickly and tilted her head, Only then did the cup miss her forehead.

With a bang, the cup fell to the ground and shattered.

On the other side, Mabel was so frightened that her entire body trembled. She immediately gave up the thought of admitting that 4 million dollars. was taken by her.

Seeing that Melody wanted to dodge, Russell raised his hand to slap Melody, but Melody caught it firmly.

He glared angrily at Melody. “You’ve done so many embarrassing things, yet you dare to stop me! I wish I could strangle you to death when you were born, you bastard!”

Melody met Russell’s gaze coldly without flinching. “Do you believe whatever Yolanda says? You can hit me, but I have to make this clear. I didn’t Lake 4 million dollars!”

Her attitude was firm, but Russell did not believe her at all He pulled his hand back forcefully and gave her a fierce slap.

This time, Melody did not dodge and forcefully received the slap. Her face immediately burned with pain. She could even feel the teeth in her mouth loosening for a moment. There seemed to be a bloody taste spreading in her mouth.

Mabel was so frightened that she covered her eyes. She could not believe what would have happened to her if she had told the truth.

At this moment, Maria’s voice came from the door, “Russell!”

Russell originally wanted to continue slapping Melody, but when he heard his mother’s voice, he could not help but stop.

Maria walked to Melody and caressed Melody’s face with her old hands.

“Melody, Melody…” Maria’s voice was trembling. No one knew if it was from heartache or anger,

Melody was furious and indifferent after being slapped just now. However, when she saw Maria’s trembling hands, her tears seemed to be out of control and ran down uncontrollably.

“Grandma. I’m fine. Her voice was hoarse as she cried and tried her best to force a smile.

Maria’s heart ached even more when she saw Melody like this.

She pulled Melody behind her and looked at Russell coldly. “Look at what you’ve done! When will you change your habit of hitting people at any time? If you really like to hit people so much, hit me and beat me to death!”

Russell was usually very respectful of Maria, but today, Melody had crossed his bottom line.

He walked forward with a cold expression and said, “Mom, what are you talking about? I know you dote on Melody, but I have to teach her a lesson this time! Not only did she steal 4 million dollars from Yolanda, but she also learned to frame Mabel, causing Mabel to lose her right to participate in the Best Celebrity. If I don’t teach her, she will make a bigger mistake in the future. At that time, what she’ll get is not just a slap.”

Yolanda also nodded. “Mom, Russell is educating Melody. It’s better if you don’t interfere.

“Ha!” Maria laughed coldly and looked at Yolanda.

Her eyes were filled with scrutiny, making Yolanda subconsciously look away.

Maria said, “If what you said is true, no matter how you teach Melody a lesson, I won’t say a word. But according to my understanding of Melody. she is definitely not someone who would do such things. You said that she stole 4 million dollars. Where’s the evidence? Did she admit it herself?

“Russell, Melody is your daughter, and you actually don’t trust her. Do you just punish her without caring about the truth? Do you think that only Mabel is your daughter?”

Russell was a little embarrassed. “Of course not… It’s just that nothing like this happened at home before she returned to Silverlake, so, Maria asked. “So you’re sure she did it?

“Well… Russell hesitated.

When Yolanda saw that this matter was about to be resolved because of Maria, she immediately decided to use her trump card, “Mom, I didn’t want to blow things up, but since you think Russell and I have wronged Melody. I can only make things clear.”

As Yolanda spoke, she glanced at Melody coldly and said, “During this period of time, Melody has been leaving early and returning late. She has almost no time to stay at home. Out of consideration for her safety. I asked the butler to follow her and protect her. However, the butler accidentally discovered that she had actually entered the gambling house!”

“What?” Russell widened his eyes and pointed at Melody’s nose angrily. “How many more surprises do you have that I don’t know? How long have you been in Silverlake? How dare you go to the gambling house!”

Maria did not look too good either. She frowned and asked Melody. “Melody, is what she said true?”

Melody sneered in her heart, but she looked aggrieved, ‘Grandma, how long have I been in Silverlake? I can’t even recognize the way. How can I know where those places are?”

Maria heaved a sigh of relief and looked at Yolanda coldly. “Did you hear that! How could she possibly know where the gambling house is?”

Yolanda sighed and said, “Mom, I was afraid of misunderstanding Melody too, so I specially went to ask. That gambling house is the largest underground gambling house in Silverlake. Anyone who enters that place will be registered with their real name. If you really don’t believe me, I can use my connections to transfer the name list that day. I’m afraid Melody won’t let me transfer the name list because she is afraid that you’ll punish her, right?

She looked at Melody with a faint smile, her eyes filled with mockery. ‘Melody, now you should be afraid, right?”

Chapter 188 – He’s Here

However, she only saw a look of confusion on Melody’s face.

Melody said. “Yolanda, what the hell are you talking about? I can count on my fingers the places I’ve been to recently, but I’ve never been to a gambling house.”

Yolanda thought, You still refuse to admit it before your doom!”

‘Let’s see how long you can keep up the act.

Yolanda cursed in her heart but said calmly. Is that so! Then tell me, where did you go at ten past ten on the morning of the 18th!”

Melody thought for two seconds and said. “I met a friend who took me to a karaoke bar to sing. But I don’t like noisy occasions, so I left not long after.”

“The morning of the 18th.

When Russell heard this, he could not help but be stunned.

Wasn’t Silverlake’s largest underground gambling house built under a karaoke bar!

He immediately frowned. “Yolanda, are you mistaken? Although Melody has many bad habits, she can’t go to such a place.

“Russell! Don’t be fooled by her. She went there the day after I lost 4 million dollars. Don’t you think it’s too much of a coincidence! Besides, if the butler is right, the friend she mentioned should be a man, right?” Yolanda yelled.

“A man” Russell’s expression turned gloomy again. “Did you actually hang out with a stranger man!“

Melody said calmly, “Dad, he’s not a stranger man. He’s my friend.”

Yolanda sneered and said, “Friend? A friend who asked you to steal money from your family y and bring you to the gambling house! That’s a really good friend!”

Melody looked up at Yolanda. “If you and Dad don’t believe me,

I can get him to come over now and explain the karaoke bar incident.”

“Ha. Yolanda sneered. “What an excuse. Who knows if you’ve colluded with him in advance?”

“Ahem!” Maria coughed, her eyes filled with warning.

Yolanda restrained her emotions and said, “Then call him over now,

I have to put him on speaker.

“Sure.” Melody nodded slightly and dialed James’s number in front of everyone. “Hello, come to my house now.

With that, she hung up.

It was clean and straightforward. Without any unnecessary words, it was impossible for there to be any so-called “colluding in advance.

Yolanda sneered. She did not think that Melody had any chance of turning the tables.

Besides, even if Melody managed to fool them, she had a trump card to play.

The living room was so quiet that one could hear a pin drop. Only the sound of Maria sitting on the sofa could be heard.

Yolanda looked at Maria’s nimble movements: Maria did not look like someone who was about to die at all, and Yolanda could not help but frown, with the medicine she bought last time! Could it be that there was really something wrong?

What a damn drug dealer! Yolanda cursed in her heart.

At this moment, there was a knock on the door.

Everyone in the living room looked at the door in unison.

The person was tall and strong. His windbreaker carried the night breeze. The moment he entered, the air in the living room seemed to plummet.

The moment Yolanda saw who it was, her eyes widened. ‘How could it be him? Could this be a coincidence!

Melody also looked slightly surprised. ‘Why is Ken here! I called James…

“Mr. Swanson“” Russell reacted quickly and stepped forward with a fawning smile. “Mr. Swanson, why did you make a special trip here in the middle of the night?”

He did not associate Melody’s “friend” with Ken at all.

Ken’s gaze swept across everyone’s faces. After staring at Melody’s face for two seconds, he turned to look at Russell and said, “Melody called me:

The corners of Russell’s mouth twitched. He looked at Melody with a stiff smile and asked, “Melody, is the friend you mentioned… Mr. Swanson?”

Melody had already reacted and nodded naturally. Then, she slowly said. “He invited us that day. His assistant, James, took me to the karaoke bar to sing. I left after staying for a while. I didn’t go to the gambling house that Yolanda mentioned. I don’t even know where the door to the gambling house is. If you don’t believe me, you can ask Ken and James,”

James then entered. When he heard this, he instantly understood Melody’s arrangement that day.

Russell looked embarrassed. He turned around and glared at Yolanda. Then, he quickly put on a fawning smile and said, “Mr. Swanson, it’s a misunderstanding. My family thought that Melody went somewhere she shouldn’t have. Since it was your party, I’m relieved.”

“Impossible…” Yolanda blurted out indignantly. However, she was so frightened by Russell’s gaze that she swallowed her words.

Ken looked at Yolanda with a faint smile. “Mrs. Fox doesn’t seem to trust me very much. Although I have a ridiculous reputation, Miss Fox is my grandmother’s savior. I definitely won’t lead her astray. To be honest, I invited Miss Fox to sing that day to thank her. However, Miss Fox has a reserved personality and is not suitable for such an occasion, so I let her leave when I saw that she was uncomfortable.

“Since you don’t think it’s good, I won’t interact with Miss Fox anymore in the future. I don’t want my good intentions to ruin things”

“No, no?” Russell quickly said. “That’s not true! I don’t believe that Melody would go to a place like the gambling house either. After you said it, we won’t suspect her anymore!

No matter how capable Melody is, it’s impossible for her to let someone as arrogant as Ken lies for her, Russell firmly believes this.

When Maria heard this, she glanced sideways at Russell. Russell became even more embarrassed and furious.

Of course, his anger was directed at Yolanda.

He should not have believed Yolanda’s nonsense.

However, Yolanda was his wife. After some deliberation, he pushed the blame to the butler. “Stupid thing! You didn’t even understand the situation and started gossiping. We almost misunderstood that Melody really went to the gambling house?”

As soon as he finished speaking, Russell kicked the butler’s leg.

The butler took a step back in pain and almost lost his balance.

However, he couldn’t care about the pain and bowed repeatedly to apologize. “Tm sorry! Mrs. Fox, Mr. Fox, Miss Melody, it’s all my fault! I didn’t figure out the cause and effect and directly reported it to Mrs. Fox. I’m willing to refund my salary for the first half of the year as an apology…”

“Enough!” Maria impatiently waved her hand and Interrupted. After telling the butler to get lost, she turned to look at Yolanda and said, “Yolanda, you are also responsible for this matter. You should also apologize to Melody.”

Yolanda’s expression was displeased. She was still unwilling to believe Ken’s words, but Ken’s identity was not questionable. If she continued to question him, she was afraid that she would be in deep trouble.

She gritted her teeth and was unwilling to let her scheme go to waste. She immediately decided to use her trump card and destroy Melody’s image in the hearts of the Swanson family people.

Yolanda ignored Russell’s previous warning. She braced herself and said, “Maria, I was indeed wrong in this matter. I shouldn’t have believed the butler’s words and believed that Melody went to the gambling house. However, the 4 million dollars that I lost in my card was definitely stolen by Melody!”

Chapter 189 – House Prices Had Risen

Russell’s expression changed drastically when he saw Yolanda revealing family scandals in front of Ken. He growled Yolanda’s name. “Yolanda, Shut up!

Yolanda was taken aback just as she was hesitating whether to say those words in front of Ken, Melody smiled faintly and asked. “Yolanda, are you so sure! Do you have other evidence? The innocent have nothing to fear. If you have any evidence, please show it.”

Melody deliberately used provocative tactics. If it were the usual Yolanda, she might have backed down. However, after a series of setbacks, Yolanda could no longer bear it and lost her composure,

She said immediately. It was on the 18th that day. I met you at the real estate sales center. You can’t deny that, can you?”

I won’t deny it” Melody’s expression did not change.

“That’s good!” Yolanda said coldly to Russell. “That day, I saw with my own eyes that she spent a large sum of money to buy a house. Her pocket money at home is nowhere near enough for that. Where did that money come from!”

Melody was about to speak, but Yolanda cut in ahead of her and continued. “But if she uses my 4 million dollars to buy a house with potential value-added, I won’t blame her Just treat this 4 million dollars as her coming–of–age gift. But do you know where they bought the house?”

Russell suppressed his anger and asked impatiently. “Where did she buy the house?”

Upon hearing this, Russell was shocked.

He looked at Melody in disbelief and asked, “Did you really buy a house in Eastern Garden?

“Yes,” Melody glanced at the time and then looked up at Russell. “Is there a problem!”

“What problem? It’s a big problem.

Russell was furious and deeply disappointed. If Ken was not here, he would have slapped Melody hard once again.

He gritted his teeth and scolded, Idios, do you know that buying a house there is like throwing money into the water? No one in all of Silverlake would be stupid enough to buy a house in Easter Garden!”

Melody asked calmly. “What if I say that the value of this house will increase?”

“Impossible! How did I give birth to such a stupid daughter like you!” Russell was so anxious that he was about to stomp his fees.

Maria frowned. “Ain’t it just 4 million dollars? She’s not spending money recklessly. Even if the house isn’t worth much, it’s still a fixed asset. If that’s the case. I’ll pay for 4 million dollars. Just treat it as a gift for Melody.

“Mom. Russell hesitated.

Before, losing 4 million dollars would have been a small setback. But after returning from this business trip, the deal he had lined up fell through. Now, the company was in a dire situation, facing a major cash flow problem.

Throwing 4 million dollars at this critical juncture was simply painful.

“Mr. Swanson” Russell did not dare to vent his anger in front of Ken. He could only smile apologetically at Ken and say, I’m sorry for what happened at home today. It’s already so late and it’s not convenient to disturb you with trivial matters. Shall I send you our?”

After sending Ken away, he returned and planned to properly discipline Melody.

However, as Russell’s words trailed off, a servant rushed in and reported. “Sir, there’s someone named Errol Glover outside, He says he’s here to see Miss Melody

Errol Glover!”

Just as Russell was about to ask, Yolanda immediately said, “Errol Glover is Eastern Garden’s real estate manager. Coincidentally, he’s here. Now, we can confirm that she did buy a loss-making property from Eastern Garden! If it matches up with the 4 million dollars, you can be sure whose pocket my 4 million dollars went to.

As Yolanda finished speaking. Errol quickly walked in.

He saw the room full of people and hesitated for a moment, but then he excitedly approached Melody and said, “Miss Fox! Thank you on behalf of my family!

Other than Melody, everyone was puzzled.

Melody calmly said, “Mr. Glover, what do you mean? Why are you suddenly thanking me?”

“Eastern Garden! It’s rising Errol’s voice trembled as he spoke, clearly overwhelmed with excitement.

“Huh?” Melody pretended to be surprised.

Yolanda couldn’t believe it and blurted out. “That’s impossible! Everyone knows Eastern Garden’s property prices have been consistently falling in Silverlake. There’s no way they could be rising!”

Errol set down the gifts he had brought and spoke passionately, “That’s how it was originally. We rarely sold houses at Eastern Garden. The buyers were either outsiders who didn’t understand the market or locals in urgent need of housing.”

Errol gulped excitedly and continued. “But just an hour ago, the officials suddenly announced that the nearby hill where that land is located will be used to build the main venue for the Olympics!

Upon hearing this, Yolanda’s vision instantly blurred, and her mind was in a mess. She couldn’t hear anything around her.

Errol continued, ignoring Yolanda’s reaction. “Eastern Garden has been hard to sell because of poor transportation, amenities, and medical facilities. But after they build the main venue, they’ll definitely construct a subway line. So, Eastern Garden’s property values have skyrocketed. Before I came here to thank you, all the units in Eastern Garden had already been sold out!”

“Wh…what?

This was the first time Halcyon had successfully bid for the Olympics. It was obvious they would put in ten times the effort to make it successful. One could imagine that the value of Easter Garden’s house would increase exponentially.

Russell was a little excited when he heard that.

Errol turned to Melody with a face full of gratitude and said, “Miss Fox, the day you bought fifteen units and persuaded me to buy one too, I went home and thought about it all night. I finally decided to scrape together enough to buy one unit. I thought it was just a moment of impulse that I would regret for the rest of my life. But now, I’ve made four to five times my investment, and it’s still rising… That’s why I brought these gifts to thank you on behalf of my entire family!”

“Fifteen unite” Russell raised his voice in surprise.

He was going to be rich.

“That’s right, Errol said generously. “Is Miss Fox your daughter? You’re really lucky. Your daughter has such good taste. I’m so envious of you! If I had known that Miss Fox was such a godly person. I would have bought a few more sets even if I had to borrow money from loan sharks!”

Being praised so much, Russell completely forgot that not long ago, he had even called Melody a little bastard and said he wished he could strangle her to death when she was born.

Melody looked at Russell’s expression and mocked him in her heart.

However, she didn’t show any hint on her face. After seeing Errol, Melody turned to Yolanda and said, “Yolanda, I’ve bought a total of fifteen houses in Eastern Garden, totaling far more than 4 million dollars. Now, do you still think I stole your money?”

Yolanda finally came back to her senses. Upon hearing Melody’s words, her face turned pale again.

Chapter 190 – I’m a Fool

Melody coldly glanced at Yolanda, whose face looked unsightly, then turned to Russell and said, “Dad, I haven’t used a single penny for these fifteen houses. All this money came from gifts Mr. Swanson gave me as tokens of appreciation, many of which I couldn’t use. After consulting with Mr. Swanson. I sold many of the gifts he gave me, and that’s where this money came from. If you don’t believe me, Mr. Swanson is here: you can ask him yourself if this is true,”

Russell, not caring about the source of the money, joyously exclaimed, “My dear daughter, what’s there to question: 1 definitely believe you!”

Melody smiled sarcastically.

She had previously been certain that the houses in Eastern Garden would skyrocket in value because she knew the Olympic main venue would be built nearby.

Today, when Russell returned, the news about the main venue was announced, and coincidentally, Errol came directly to thank her.

It could be said that she had the right time, place, and people today.

The heavens were helping her.

However, this matter would not end so easily.

Melody raised her eyebrows. “It’s best if you believe me. However, Yolanda’s card is missing 4 million dollars for no reason. This is not a small matter. It’s best to find it out.

Ken said unhurriedly. “What a coincidence. The Swanson Group owns a bank, and we have a good relationship with other banks. If you want to check the accounts, I can just make a call”

Mabel, who had been silent, spoke with a panicked expression. “Let’s not trouble Mr. Swanson. It’s already late today, and this is a family matter. We’ll investigate it tomorrow. Perhaps Mom remembered incorrectly… Let’s not let this misunderstanding linger.”

Yolanda looked at Mabel in confusion.

She was sure she hadn’t made a mistake and had even gone to the bank to check. Indeed, 4 million dollars had been withdrawn.

Mabel’s reaction gave Yolanda a bad feeling.

She instinctively wanted to follow Mabel’s words, but Ken had already dialed a number. While waiting for the other end to pick up, he said, “Is it just a misunderstanding? We’ll find out with a quick check. Don’t worry, it’s just a matter of a phone call. I don’t find it troublesome.”

Russell also felt it best to clarify the matter of the 4 million dollars. He quickly thanked Mr. Swanson, saying. Thank you very much, Mr. Swanson Sorry to trouble you…”

Ken nodded and coincidentally, the call connected. He briefly explained the situation and then asked Yolanda, “What is your card number?”

“Um…” Yolanda glanced at Mabel, who appeared on the verge of tears.

She immediately concluded that Mabel had taken the 4 million dollars.

For a moment, Yolanda panicked as well.

However, under the pressure of Russell, she could only take out her bank card.

With the card number provided, the bank quickly accessed the records, and a video recording was promptly sent over.

Ken casually glanced at the video and then smirked, glancing towards Mabel

“How interesting…”

Mabel’s body trembled, and her face turned pale.

She knew it was over,

Russell didn’t understand why Ken said that. He quickly stepped forward to take a look.

When he watched the video and saw Mabel repeatedly withdrawing money from the ATM until she almost filled a sack with cash before leaving. Russell’s face turned ashen with shock and disbelief.

He borrowed Ken’s phone and showed it in front of Yolanda. “Take a look for yourself!”

Maria could not sit still anymore. With Hattie’s help, she stood up and went forward to check the video.

After watching the video, her expression did not look any better than Russell’s.

“Mabell,” Maria said angrily and disappointedly, “You were the one who withdrew the money. Why didn’t you say anything after the matter blew up for so long? Are you just going to watch your sister be suspected and slapped? What are you thinking!”

Maria was truly disappointed. Despite not being close to Mabel all along, she still cared for her

But, Mabel’s behavior today made her completely lose her sympathy for her.

Mabel’s shoulders trembled from the scolding. She was not as mentally prepared as Melody. She immediately cried out in fear, calling out to Yolanda, “Mom…

Yolanda hesitated, feeling frustrated but unable to blame her daughter. She forced herself to speak up. “Russell, this is all a misunderstanding. I didn’t clarify things properly. Mabel is usually very social and spends a lot: She might have forgotten to tell me. As for why she didn’t speak up earlier, she must have been scared. You know she’s timid..”

Russell had pinned most of his hopes on Mabel marrying into the Swanson family. Despite disliking Mabel’s actions, he didn’t blame her too much.

Just as they were about to brush this matter off, Ken spoke indifferently. Timid? Huh. Mrs. Fox, being timid is one thing, but allowing Melody to be accused and scolded for something Mabel did seems quite different, doesn’t it?”

Upon hearing Ken’s words, Russell found himself unable to let it go.

“Mr. Swanson, I will educate my daughter severely and make things clear here.

Ken raised his right eyebrow and said. Indeed, we should educate her severely. The news of her taking Mr. Lawrence’s bracelet has spread like wildfire. At that time, I didn’t believe that she could do such a thing, so I specially sent someone to investigate in secret. I didn’t expect that it was really her who took the bracelet. Not only that, she even slandered Melody by putting it on her and exposing it in public. If we don’t educate such a daughter, I’m afraid she’ll be in trouble in the future”

Russell was taken aback, He had no idea what happened after that.

“You two!” Russell gritted his teeth. Are you treating me like a Fool?”

Yolanda and Mabel were both shocked, but under Ken’s pressure, they did not dare to directly refute. Yolanda said. “Russell, it’s all a misunderstanding. Mabel didn’t steal anything She found the bracelet.

“Shut up! I don’t want to hear any more excuses! From today onwards, both of you better reflect on your actions! If you don’t reflect properly. I bet you’ll receive severe consequences!”

Melody sneered inwardly.

In such a huge scandal, if it were on herself, her father would be “wishing to strangle” her, but for her mother and sister, it’s just a light and fluffy “reflection“.

He was such a good father.

She felt like applauding for Russell.

Russell did not notice Melody’s gaze. He only said to Ken awkwardly, “Mr. Swanson, I apologize for today’s embarrassment. I’ll definitely educate my wife and daughter. Please don’t tell anyone about what happened today…”

“Don’t worry” Ken shrugged and said, “Melody is the Swanson family’s benefactor. For her sake, I won’t say a word about today’s incident to anyone.”

Russell heaved a sigh of relief and gave Melody a grateful look.

He had thought that his daughter was a piece of rubble, but he did not expect her to be a pearl.

He would never hit or scold Melody so easily in the future.

However, in the next moment, Ken said mockingly. “But for a mere 4 million dollars, you actually hit your daughter. It truly opens my eyes…”

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