Chapter 271

The alarm in the OR had been manually turned off by Rodney when Melody approached, so she initially didn’t notice Lucas’ condition immediately.

But with Ander’s reprimand, Melody finally realized something was wrong.

She hastily withdrew the needle from her hand and hurried to Lucas’ operating table.

Before she could check Lucas’ condition, Ander abruptly pulled her away.

Melody, caught off guard, stumbled and nearly fell.

As she regained her balance and saw Ander, she was furious. “What are you doing? Don’t you want to save your son?” she asked in confusion.

“Nonsense! Of course, I do, but it’s not your turn to save him, you killer! Regina will save him,” Ander retorted sharply.

“Regina?” Melody glared at Regina with cold eyes.

Regina avoided eye contact with her guiltily, not daring to look her in the eye.

Melody glanced at Regina coldly and then turned back to Ander. “If you didn’t need my help, why call me here? And when have I ever harmed anyone?”

Ander shot back, “How do you still have the nerve to ask? If it wasn’t for the silver needles you had inserted into my son’s body, he would have been better and transferred to the ICU ward long ago. His life will not be in any danger anymore. But look at my son now! He’s fighting for his life now because of your ‘help’! Explain yourself right now! And tell me what the hell you did to my son. If anything happens to him, I won’t let you go!”

Melody furrowed her brow and explained, “I used the needles to protect his heart and lungs during surgery. I never intended harm.”

“What a joke! Then why is he in this state and needs emergency treatment now?” Ander accused.

“I… I don’t know. It should have not been like this…” Melody said.

“What? Who do you think you are? You’re just an assistant, yet you dare to make decisions on your own! I don’t have time to waste on nonsense. Tell me right away what you’ve done to my son. Did those silver needles harm him?”

“No…” Melody paused and suddenly realized something. She turned to Regina and said, “Did you fail to remove the needles after ten minutes as I instructed?”

Regina was already feeling uneasy, but now, with everyone in the operating room watching her, she clenched her teeth, ignored Melody’s question, and spoke

defiantly, “Don’t you dare try to pin your own misdeeds on me! You’d better explain what’s going on quickly, or I won’t help you.”

“No need to waste words on her. Just restrain her and interrogate her!” Ander waved his hand, instructing his bodyguards to tie up Melody,

“You’re not the police. Who are you to interrogate me? If you want your son to live, you’d better clear this room now so I can save him,” Melody said.

“How dare you still talk tough at the end of your rope! Tie her up now!” Ander ordered coldly.

Several bodyguards rushed in from outside the operating room, closing in on Melody.

Melody coldly assessed the approaching bodyguards and quickly concluded they were no match for her.

However, in the confined space of the operating room, any wrong move could disrupt the delicate instruments.

After CPR, Lucas’ heart rate had recovered, but his life was still in danger. It was all thanks to these instruments that were keeping Lucas alive.

With these concerns in mind, Melody hesitated, daring not to move too much. After a few moves, she was soon overpowered by the bodyguards.

“Let go of me, Mr. Morgan! Do you even know what you’re doing? You’re not just teaching me a lesson. You’re endangering your own son!” Melody said.

Rodney, who had been at Lucas’ side, approached Ander after stabilizing Lucas with a shot of heart-strengthening elixir. “Mr. Morgan, we still don’t know what caused your son’s condition. We need answers urgently”

“I understand.” Ander’s face darkened. He coldly ordered his bodyguards, “Make her talk! Beat her until she tells me exactly what she did to Lucas!”

Regina smirked mockingly after seeing this.

‘Weren’t you so arrogant at the auction? Now look at you being beaten,’ she thought maliciously.

As long as Lucas died and Melody ended up in jail, no one would ever uncover the truth, and the Morgan family would owe her a debt of gratitude.

At this moment, the lead bodyguard raised his hand and was about to slap Melody.

Regina pursed her lips as if she was watching a good show.

However, at this moment, the anesthesiologist suddenly stepped forward and stood in front of Melody.

With a crisp slap, he took the blow intended for Melody…

The operating room fell silent as everyone watched in astonishment.

The bodyguard who acted first soon reacted and looked at Ander with confusion and unease.

Ander appeared equally puzzled and turned to the anesthesiologist, asking, “What are you doing,

Doctor?”

Sensing trouble, Regina spoke up before the anesthesiologist could respond, “Mr. Morgan, perhaps we should escort the non-essential

personnel out. After all, Lucas’ well-being is our top priority.”

As she said this, she discreetly signaled Melody with a look that conveyed, “Don’t forget the 40 million dollars.”

Once Melody told the truth, Regina planned to sue her for extortion.

“Alright!” Ander nodded, instructing the bodyguard to remove the anesthesiologist as well.

But the anesthesiologist wasn’t silent. As he was being escorted out, he shouted, “Mr. Morgan, you’ve been deceived! It’s Regina who’s been lying to all of you!”

Ander froze, about to inquire further, when Regina hurried forward, rebuking the anesthesiologist, “Watch your words! When have I ever deceived anyone? Hurry up, get this man out of here! Lucas is in critical condition and can’t handle this commotion!”

Reacting instinctively, the bodyguard moved to escort the anesthesiologist away.

However, Ander sensed something amiss and raised his hand, signaling them to wait.

Rather than listen to Regina, the bodyguards were naturally more willing to heed Ander’s authority and halted immediately.

Regina, visibly anxious, was focused solely on removing the anesthesiologist from Ander’s presence and urged, “Mrs. Morgan, please persuade Mr. Morgan. This is not the time for a scene…”

Before Zoe could interject, Ander interrupted Regina to address the anesthesiologist directly. “What do you mean by what you just said? How have we been deceived by Regina? What deception are you referring to?”

“Mr. Morgan!” Regina exclaimed, looking flustered.

“Shut up!” Ander cut her off coldly, his eyes conveying a stern warning.

Regina, taken aback and anxious, sensed trouble looming.

“Please continue,” Ander urged the anesthesiologist.

The anesthesiologist glanced at Regina before speaking earnestly, “Regina wasn’t the one who performed the surgery. She’s been deceiving you all this time.”

“That’s nonsense!” Regina retorted.

Ander’s patience was running thin. He gestured to his bodyguard to silence Regina before turning back to the anesthesiologist.

After that, he quickly asked the anesthetist, “Explain yourself

clearly. What exactly do you mean?”

Chapter 272

The anesthesiologist glanced guiltily at Melody and said, “This young lady wasn’t even the assistant Regina claimed she was, and on the contrary, the entire surgery depended on her! Regina was playing games on her cell phone the entire time, except for handing her tools at the beginning. And it was obvious to me that Regina didn’t know how to perform surgery at all. She doesn’t even know the most basic surgical procedures, and she actually let an attending surgeon hold the surgical tools by herself.”

“Is everything you’re saying true?” Ander’s eyes held a mixture of surprise and anger.

“Everything I said is true. If even half a word is false, may I be damned in heaven!” the anesthesiologist spoke word for word, with utmost sincerity, making Ander believe that what he was saying might be the truth.

Regina tried to explain, but her mouth was covered by the bodyguard, so she could only make some agitated noises.

Next to her, Rodney’s eyes widened in surprise.

He couldn’t believe that Regina, whom he called a great doctor, was actually a liar who didn’t know anything!

It made him feel his self-respect being trampled under Regina’s feet.

Zoe, however, didn’t believe the anesthesiologist right away. After all, she loved Regina deeply and had always thought of her as a daughter. Zoe pulled Ander back, looked at the anesthesiologist seriously, and asked, “If it’s really as you say, why didn’t you speak up earlier? It’s not like you’ve been bribed by this woman, is it?”

The anesthesiologist smiled bitterly to himself and said, “You’re half wrong. Someone did bribe me, but it wasn’t this lady. It was Regina. She told me that as long as I didn’t say anything, she’d give me 200 thousand dollars when the job was done. I couldn’t resist the temptation, so I agreed to do it. But just now, seeing this young lady being misunderstood by you and even facing violence, my conscience couldn’t take it.”

“This…” Zoe hesitated. She signaled the bodyguard to release Regina’s mouth, wrinkled her eyebrows, and inquired, “Regina, tell the truth. Was it you who performed the surgery for Lucas or not? Don’t worry, if it wasn’t you, I won’t blame you if you tell the truth now. I’ll just take it as you being young and momentarily blinded by profit.”

Regina froze, her heart frantically torn. But after thinking about how furious her mother would be if she admitted it, she gritted her teeth and said, “Mrs. Morgan, I really didn’t lie to you. I don’t know why this anesthesiologist is wronging me so much. I clearly took the surgery seriously for three hours.” Zoe couldn’t help but start to feel sorry for Regina. “Regina, as long as you’re telling the truth, no one can wrong you.”

Regina nodded, tears in her eyes. “Thank you for believing me. I just can’t win against two people with only my words. I’ve worked so hard, but all I’ve received is endless slander. I really can’t understand it… Is this world just like this, where good people can’t get any recognition? If that’s the case, I’d rather not be a good person anymore.” Zoe’s heart ached. She patted Regina’s shoulder and said, “Regina, don’t say that. I do believe in you. How can we trust two outsiders instead of you?”

The anesthesiologist was shocked and quickly said, “Mrs. Morgan, I swear to God that I really didn’t lie! The one who lied was Regina!”

“Shut up. The Morgan family isn’t stupid. We’ll find out soon enough if you’re lying or not,” Zoe said, giving Ander a look that signaled him to take the anesthesiologist out for private questioning.

The Morgan family was in the business of scientific research, and with a few drops of potion to torture and torment the anesthesiologist, she didn’t believe he would still be able to hold on to his lies.

But just then…

Rodney suddenly spoke up. “There’s no need for all this trouble. To find out who’s lying, we just need to check the surveillance footage. Anyway, after our resuscitation, Lucas won’t be in any danger for the time being, so it’s the perfect time to see if someone caused his condition.”

“Surveillance footage?” Zoe asked in surprise. “Is there surveillance in the operating room?”

“Yes, all operating rooms are equipped with surveillance to ensure that if anything goes wrong during surgery, the source of the problem can be identified to minimize medical disputes. The surveillance exists to protect us, doctors. If Miss Sterling is telling the truth, then the footage can protect her from being wrongly accused. I was too anxious earlier and didn’t think of this.”

Melody had been observing the scene for quite a while. When she heard this, her gaze turned towards Regina.

Regina’s face showed no sign of panic. She could not help but feel puzzled. ‘It shouldn’t be like this… she thought. Regina should have been scared when knowing there was surveillance, right?

A bad premonition rose in her heart.

Soon, her premonition was confirmed. The nurse who was sent to check the surveillance footage ran back and reported, “Dr. Stanton, something is wrong. The people in the surveillance room said our surveillance system has been hacked, and now we can’t view the footage at all.”

“Hacked? At a time like this?” Rodney’s face darkened.

Regina heard the nurse’s words, and a flash of smugness crossed her eyes. Fortunately, she was well-prepared and had considered all possibilities. Before Melody arrived, she had paid a hacker to break into the hospital’s surveillance system.

She quickly concealed her satisfaction, looked coldly at Melody, and spoke maliciously, “It seems you made thorough preparations. You knew your evil deeds would be exposed, so you took action in advance. What a clever calculation. I’m so ashamed of you! Losing to you, I have nothing to say!” Regina’s preemptive words made Zoe instantly believe that Melody was the one who had hired a hacker in advance.

Even Ander began to waver, feeling he might have misunderstood Regina. “Regina…” he spoke apologetically, “I’m so sorry that I misunderstood you.” Regina shook her head with a resigned expression. “It’s okay, Mr. Morgan. It’s normal for you to misunderstand me when Lucas’ safety is at stake. You were just too anxious, but I hope you’ll trust me more in the future and not gullibly believe the words of outsiders.”

Ander nodded repeatedly, unable to hide his embarrassment. “I will trust you in the future.”

However, at that moment, Melody suddenly spoke. “The surveillance system has been hacked?”

Ander instantly frowned. “The evidence is overwhelming. What else do you want to say?”

Melody smiled coldly and replied, “Don’t tell me that the evidence you said is just Regina’s words? We need to look at the surveillance and let it convict me, right?”

Ander said impatiently, “Haven’t you heard the surveillance has been hacked and can’t be viewed? You’re deliberately bringing up things that can’t be checked because you’re guilty, right? I’m telling you, it’s useless to act tough. I’ll find a way to make you talk. You’d better be sensible and tell me the truth yourself. What exactly have you done to my son?”

“Who says we can’t look at the surveillance if it’s hacked? The hacker’s usual technique is to garble the surveillance footage. As long as the garbling is corrected, the surveillance can still be viewed,” Melody said calmly. “As it happens, I can fix the garbled code,” Melody said.

Chapter 273

Regina panicked internally and hurriedly said to Ander, “Mr. Morgan, I think she’s just trying to stall for time, waiting for someone to come and save her. Who knows if the person who

came with her earlier is her mole? Let’s stop listening to her nonsense and just interrogate her in private!”

Under coercion, she believed that Melody would give in.

Since ancient times, many people have succumbed to torture. Melody, being about the same age as herself, definitely couldn’t withstand it.

Melody spoke calmly, “Miss Sterling, are you refusing to let me fix the garbled code because you are afraid?”

“Of course not!” Regina blurted out. “I am upright and have nothing to hide. What am I afraid of?”

Melody seized the moment and said, “Since you have nothing to hide, let them release me so I can fix the surveillance.”

“No way!” Regina retorted instantly. “Don’t you dare try to stall for time!”

Melody knew that Regina’s words held no weight here, so she didn’t want to waste any more time with Regina. She directed her attention to Ander and said, “Mr. Morgan, haven’t you been unable to figure out why your son’s condition suddenly worsened? Even if you get the answer you want after torturing me and interrogating me, do you think there’s still time?”

What she said struck a chord with Ander.

He looked deeply at Melody and saw that her eyes were clear and determined, not like those of a deceitful person.

Moreover, if Melody had really done something to Lucas, would she dare to proactively request to fix the surveillance data?

Considering this, Ander no longer hesitated and ordered, “Let her go!” The bodyguard immediately untied Melody.

Melody flexed her arm and, after shaking out her wrist, said, “I need a computer.”

Ander waved his hand and said, “Get her one immediately! I want to see what tricks she has up her sleeve!”

Seeing that Ander had actually agreed to Melody’s request, Regina was immediately anxious.

Trying to maintain her calm expression, she tugged on Zoe’s sleeve and said, “Mrs. Morgan, I know her too well. She’s very cunning, and even those who have been deceived by her still think highly of her. If we really agree to her request, no one knows what she’ll do. Please, Mrs. Morgan, persuade Mr. Morgan!”

Zoe, however, wasn’t easily fooled. Sensing something off in Regina’s tone, she couldn’t help but ask, “Isn’t she, your assistant? If she’s so cunning as you said, why do you still employ her?”

“I…” Regina was momentarily speechless.

But Zoe didn’t suspect Regina either. She just thought Regina was overly concerned about Lucas’s well-being and softly consoled her, “Don’t worry. Even though the Morgan family isn’t particularly wealthy, we won’t be easily fooled by the general public. Let her try. If she can recover the surveillance footage, it will clear your name and prevent any lingering resentment.”

What Zoe said made Regina reluctant to speak further, afraid she might reveal herself.

She could only clench her teeth and pray that Melody was just someone who knew nothing about hacking.

Within a minute, the bodyguard brought a laptop.

The anesthesiologist looked at Melody with a tense expression, worried that she wouldn’t be able to recover the footage.

If she failed, his career as an anesthesiologist would be over by the Morgan family.

Melody noticed the anesthesiologist’s gaze and gave him a reassuring look… Strangely, the anesthesiologist’s anxious heart calmed after receiving her gaze.

Melody then lowered her head, no longer paid attention to anything else, and turned on the computer without any distractions.

After connecting to the hospital’s wireless network, her slender fingers flew across the keyboard so quickly that they became a blur.

The only visible thing on the screen was a dark green interface with countless lines of code running across it.

Regina was so nervous that she

subconsciously held her breath, staring intently at the screen and silently begging, ‘Don’t restore the surveillance!’

She couldn’t help but start convincing herself that the hacker she hired was top-notch and expensive, so there was no way Melody could successfully fix the surveillance!

However, just as this thought appeared, she saw Melody press the enter key with a decisive “snap”, and the chaotic code transformed into a string of irregular numbers.

“Done,” Melody said with calm eyes as if she wasn’t engaged in a fierce technical battle but merely discussing the weather.

“Done?” Ander couldn’t believe it. “Can we watch the surveillance now?”

“That’s impossible!” Regina blurted out subconsciously. “It’s only been two minutes! How could you possibly defeat such a powerful hacker?” “Powerful?” Melody responded with a wry smile. “Miss Sterling, may I ask how you know the hacker on the other side is powerful?”

With those words, almost everyone in the operating room, including Zoe; looked at Regina with complicated and suspicious gazes.

Regina’s heart tightened, and she hastened to explain, “This is just a casual guess… The hacker who could break into Silverlake Hospital’s surveillance system must have some serious skills, right?”

Melody shrugged and, without another word, used her hacking skills to connect to the hospital’s surveillance. She swiftly found the relevant footage.

Before Regina could react, the surveillance footage appeared before everyone.

In the footage, Melody was standing beside the operating table and focused on the surgery while the

anesthesiologist beside her had set aside his own work to help her pass the instruments.

In stark contrast, Regina was sitting not far away, playing a cell phone game.

Watching Regina slap her leg in frustration after losing the game,

Ander and Zoe could hardly believe their eyes.

Seeing this, Regina turned pale at once. She rushed toward the laptop in a frenzy and threw it out of the operating room.

She had completely lost her mind and turned to attack Melody.

Before she could touch Melody, a large hand yanked hard on her wrist.

Regina glared angrily, only to see James looking at her coldly, his eyes full of warning.

When did James get here?

Regina’s mind went blank for a split second.

Melody was also surprised and asked James with her eyes why he was there. James shook off Regina’s hand with a disgusted look and said in a voice only the two of them could hear, “Until Lucas divorces you, no outsider can bully you. I’m doing this to protect Lucas’s reputation.”

Melody couldn’t help but curl her lips. “Thanks.”

James wasn’t bad by nature, just a bit difficult to deal with and straightforward.

Regina was thrown to the ground by James with great force.

She raised her eyes in exasperation, only to meet Ander’s furious gaze. “You bitch!” he growled, reaching out to slap Regina hard across the face.

The slap was so hard that Regina could even taste blood in her mouth.

She was trembling from the pain and subconsciously turned to Zoe for help.

Chapter 274

Chapter 274

“Mrs. Zoe,” Regina cried for help.

However, Zoe, who had always been kind and gentle to her, now seemed different. Zoe’s face twisted in a near-demonic expression, glaring at Regina.

The next second, Zoetook two steps forward and slapped her hard twice.

“Slap! Slap!” the sound of the slappings echoed.

Regina’s right cheek immediately went numb and swelled up.

She then stared in disbelief.

“Mrs. Zoe?” cried Regina.

“Shut up!” Zoe snapped angrily.

Zoe slapped her face again with a voice filled with anger and disappointment.

“You still have the nerve to call me

Mrs. Zoe? You always claimed to treat Lucas as your own brother. Is this how you treat your brother? While Lucas was fighting for his life in

surgery, you were engrossed in playing games. Even if Lucas were a stranger, you shouldn’t have acted like that. Now, tell me the truth! Did you have an ulterior motive from the very beginning when you approached Lucas?”

“I didn’t…” Regina quickly shook her head in denial.

“Didn’t?” Zoe sneered. “How dare you say you didn’t? Didn’t you perform the surgery on the day of Ziqian’s car accident?”

“I…” Regina stammered.

James decided to speak for Regina. “Miss Fox performed the surgery on the day of the car accident. Regina didn’t trust Miss Fox’s medical skills during the surgery Regina tried to force her way into the operating room. Your son was almost killed by Regina then, yet you treated this shameless fraud as a divine doctor. How ridiculous!”

Zoe’s lips twitched, and the anger in her heart intensified.

The higher her expectations had been for Regina, the greater her

disappointment was now.

“You deceitful wretch who took credit from others. We must have been blind to be deceived by someone like you!” Zoe closed her eyes, feeling a surge of anger. No amount of slapping could relieve her anger.

Ander calmed down a little, but he was still trembling with anger.

“Regina, let me tell you this, as long as I, Ander Morgan, am alive, you and your mother will never step foot into the scientific research world again!” Ander declared sternly.

Regina’s eyes widened in horror, her pupils shrinking to a pinpoint.

“No…” Regina knelt, clutching Zoe’s pants, and pleaded desperately, “Mrs. Zoe, I know I was wrong. I shouldn’t have lied. I shouldn’t have played games while Lucas was in surgery. I was blinded by greed, but I truly cared for Lucas and I really do treat him like my own brother!”

Zoe kicked Regina’s chest and said with disgust, “Hearing Lucas’s name from your mouth makes me sick. Ander, I don’t want to see her anymore!”

Ander nodded and ordered with a waving hand, “Take her away and lock her up! No one is to release her without my permission!”

The tall bodyguards immediately approached Regina.

Regina quickly stood up, backing away.

Now that the truth had been completely revealed, Regina stopped pretending and warned coldly, “What right do you have to lock me up? You’re illegally detaining me!” “Don’t worry. After teaching you a lesson, I’ll hand you over to the police and I can still afford your medical expenses. Take her away!” Ander said coldly.

The bodyguards immediately quickened his pace.

A glint of coldness flashed in Regina’s eyes. Regina suddenly pulled out black silver needles from her sleeve and hurled it at the bodyguards.

“Ouch” screamed the bodyguards.

With a few screams, the tall bodyguards fell to the ground and their faces turned a ghastly green.

“The silver needles are poisonous!” Melody quickly warned.

Panic erupted in the operating room, and Regina took the opportunity to escape.

James quickly reacted and said, “I’ll go after her,” and ran out.

Melody couldn’t care more about Regina at that time. Melody crouched down and removed the silver needles from the bodyguards. She then used her silver needles to puncture several points on their bodies.

The bodyguard immediately spat out black blood, and their faces looked less ghastly.

“They need an infusion immediately,” Melody stood up and reminded Rodney.

Rodney then snapped out of his shock and ordered the nurses to take the men out for treatment.

Finally, the operating room fell silent. “Miss Fox,” Ander said awkwardly, “I apologize for misunderstanding you.” Melody looked up and said, “Do you believe me now?”

Ander looked even more embarrassed, he avoided Melody’s gaze and said. “Not only did you save Lucas twice, but the way you detoxified my men just now proves your exceptional medical skills. I was blind to not see through Regina’s tricks from the start.”

Zoe knelt in front of Melody with her tear-filled eyes.

“Dr. Fox, it’s our fault as parents. It has nothing to do with Lucas. We are willing to take responsibility for our mistakes. But please, save Lucas. He is innocent.” Zoe pleaded.

As soon as she finished speaking, Lucas’s condition suddenly worsened. The monitors started beeping again.

Rodney said anxiously, “Oh no, Mr. Morgan’s heart rate is dropping again.”

Upon hearing this, Zoe hurriedly kowtowed to Melody.

Zoe cried, “Miss Fox, please save my son! We will give you whatever you want!”

Ander added anxiously, “Miss Fox, as long as you can save our son, the Morgan family will be at your disposal!”

Melody frowned and said, “I will save him. Even if you didn’t say anything, I would still save him. But now the operating room is contaminated by all the people who barged in. We need to move him to a new operating room immediately.”

“No problem!” Ander quickly signaled Rodney.

“The operating room next door is empty. I’ll transfer the patient there right away,” Rodney immediately said.

Soon, the new operating room was ready.

Melody disinfected herself thoroughly and entered the operating room. And at that time, Lucas’s blood oxygen saturation had dropped dangerously low.

Melody checked the surgical site and found no infection. The only possible cause for the situation was that Regina failed to remove the silver needles in time.

Rodney followed Melody into the operating room and said apologetically, “Dr. Fox, there was a misunderstanding previously. Please forgive me for being stupid. I always thought Regina was the one with superior surgical skills, which is why I believed her unconditionally. I’m truly sorry, Dr. Fox.”

Melody shook her head and said: “I’m not a miracle doctor. I’m just someone who studied medicine from a young age. You can just call me Melody. Regina is smart. I can understand why you were deceived by her.”

Rodney looked deeply at Melody. He saw that her eyes were calm and there was no arrogance or anger in them, this made her seem particularly approachable.

In stark contrast to the arrogant Regina.

Rodney should have noticed it long ago.

Rodney was filled with guilt and was about to apologize again when Melody raised her hand and said, “I didn’t take it to heart. You don’t have to say anything else. The most important thing now is to save the patient.”

Rodney quickly nodded and said, “I reviewed the surgical records. Your procedure was flawless. Where did things go wrong?”

Chapter 275

Melody spoke with a hint of shame, “I also examined Mr. Morgan just now, and I found the reason. I performed acupuncture on Mr. Morgan to protect his heart and lungs after the surgery to prevent any cardiac issues.”

Although Rodney is a modern medicine, he never disregards the profound knowledge of traditional medicine. Rodney asked in confusion, “Then how did things go wrong?”

“Because this silver needle can protect the heart and lungs within ten minutes, but beyond that, it causes serious damage. I should have been there to monitor, but I collapsed from

weakness after the acupuncture. Before fainting, I specifically instructed

Regina to remove the needle in ten minutes, but she clearly ignored my words.” said Melody.

“That despicable person!” Rodney clenched his teeth angrily, and asked, “So, what rescue options do we have now?”

“We do have one. However.” Melody hesitated, her voice tinged with concern.

“However what?” Rodney pressed. “It is very risky,” Melody replied.

Rodney looked at the continuously dropping heart rate on the monitor and gritted his teeth, “Mr. Morgan is now in a critical condition. His heartbeat is solely maintained by the · cardiac stimulant I administered, and it won’t last long. Rather than this, we might as well take a chance.”

Melody nodded. “Then I’ll have to trouble you to go outside. Once the family members agree, I’ll start with the treatment.”

“Alright.” Rodney agreed.

Rodney hurriedly left the operating room and relayed Melody’s words to Ander.

Upon hearing the words, Zoe instinctively grasped Ander’s sleeve. Ander took a deep breath and asked, “Dr. Stanton, what do you think the chances of success are?”

Rodney hesitated for a moment and said, “I don’t know, but what I do know is that the first two surgeries were done perfectly. I’m only fit to be an assistant in front of Dr. Fox.”

Ander fell silent for two seconds before saying solemnly, “We agree. Tell Dr. Fox that as long as she gives her all, even if the outcome isn’t favorable, we won’t hold her responsible.”

“Okay,” Rodney responded.

Without lingering further, Rodney disinfected himself and re-entered the operating room.

Upon entering, Rodney said. “They have agreed, and they won’t hold you responsible.”

Melody nodded. “Treatment requires a lot of medical affinities. Meeting Lucas and gaining the trust of his parents has already improved the success rate. Now, let me explain how we proceed…” Two minutes later, Rodney asked in a daze, “Bloodletting treatment?”

“Yes. In traditional medicine, Lucas’s current condition is called meridian blockage. To restore him to normal, we’ll need to simultaneously withdraw and transfuse blood, effectively replacing his entire blood supply. In modern medicine, this principle is similar to bone marrow

transplantation for leukemia patients,” Melody explained.

“I understand now. I’ll inform the blood bank immediately and ask them to prepare sufficient blood bags,” Rodney replied thoughtfully,

“Okay,” Melody responded.

Meanwhile.

At the entrance of the hospital.

Regina barely escaped to the hospital entrance, only to see James catching up to her.

Regina’s heart raced and she quickened her pace.

Just then, a red sports car stopped in front of her.

Upon seeing the familiar sports car, Regina opened the car door and got in without hesitation. She urged, “Drive quickly!”

The woman in the driver’s seat sensed trouble. Without asking, the woman stepped on the accelerator and the car sped away like an arrow.

“Damn it!” James cursed.

Kicking a street lamp in frustration, while he tried to memorize the license plate number of the red sports car in his mind.

Inside the car.

Regina finally calmed down as she watched the hospital disappear into the distance.

“What’s going on?” The enchanting woman in the driver’s seat asked coldly, “Don’t tell me that the matter has been exposed and you angered the Morgan family.”

“I’m sorry, Mom,” Regina said apologetically.

Regina bit her lip tightly, feeling deeply regretful. “We were on the verge of success and Ander was about’ to approve our entry into the research team, but that rural bumpkin intervened, so I.”

“I don’t want to hear your excuses. I only care about results,” said Jennie.

Regina lowered her head in shame, “They have found out I can’t perform surgery at all. They suspect me of taking credit and delaying Lucas’s treatment and they are planning to lock me up. I only managed to escape by injecting a poisonous needle.”

As soon as he finished speaking, the car screeched to an abrupt stop.

Regina was caught off guard and her forehead hit the back of the front seat.

Regina sucked in a sharp breath of pain but didn’t dare complain.

“Useless! You can’t even handle such a small matter. I’ve been smart for most of my life. How did I give birth to an idiot like you? My carefully laid plans are ruined! The Morgan family will definitely expose all your deeds. You’ll become a scapegoat and everyone will call for your head in the future!” Jennie’s words pierced Regina’s heart, and Regina’s eyes instantly reddened. Regina mustered her courage and said, “It’s all because of that bitch! I was on the verge of success. Who knew she had hacking skills to access the surgery room’s surveillance? She was also the one that snatched the five stalks of Draba grass at the auction yesterday.” Regina continued goading, “Mom, we must get rid of that rural bumpkin. She is a threat to us!”

Jennie’s expression darkened even more.

“Don’t blame others for your own shortcomings. If you were smart enough, you would have made Melody a scapegoat. In the end, it’s because of your stupidity!” Jennie reprimanded.

Regina was still unwilling to let Melody ruin her life without doing anything.

She gritted her teeth and said, “But are we going to leave her alone? Mom, she’s ruined me like this. Once the Morgan family exposes my actions, I will never be able to survive in Silverlake anymore.”

“At least you still know what’s going to happen to you,” Jennie added.

“Mom,” said Regina.

Jennie pressed her temple impatiently.

“Understood,” Jennie muttered, her voice resigned. “She’s ruined such a great opportunity for us. How can I let her go? What’s her name? Give me her information.”

“Her name is Melody Fox,” Regina replied hesitantly, her tone uncertain, “from the Fox family in the countryside.”

“Wait.” Jennie suddenly looked up and asked, “What did you say her name was?”

“Melody Fox.”

A cold glint flashed across Jennie’s eyes.

“So It’s her,” exclaimed Jennie.

Regina asked in genuine surprise, “You know her?”

“Do you remember about the Icy Clear Cosmetics I have been focusing on recently?” Jennie continued, her tone frustrated.

“Of course,” replied eagerly.

“She’s the one that helped Silk Beauty Cosmetics and Icy Clear Cosmetics make the bet, she claimed she could develop a product better than All-Purpose Water and Golden Water. According to what you said before, it seems like she does have some skills.” Jennie explained.

“In that case,” Jennie declared firmly.

“We must get rid of her, Regardless of whether she’s boasting or not, as long as there’s the slightest possibility, we have to nip it in the bud,” Jennie said. As Regina heard this, her sense of injustice dissolved into eager anticipation.

Since Regina’s life was ruined, there was no way Melody would have it good either.

With Jennie’s abilities, getting rid of Melody would be as simple as crushing an ant.

Half an hour passed quickly.

Outside the operating room.

Prev | Next

Chapter 266

Following closely behind Sara was Margaret, who had gone out for breakfast.

Why is Margaret with Sara? Melody asked.

Ken sighed silently. My grandma is kind and has many friends. Sara is one of her friends. My grandma is soft-hearted and easily bewitched by the people with ulterior motives.

Melody could not help but ask, You said that your mother’s death had something to do with Sara. What’s that about?

My mother died in an accident, but I don’t believe it was an accident. Sara was the one who did my mother’s autopsy back then, but all the information there was burned down before the autopsy report had been released. That timing was so coincidental that I had to guess.

So, what have you got now? Asked Melody.

It’s impossible to find the autopsy report again, but I tracked down an account Sara had set up overseas. On the day my mother died, her account gained 200 million dollars out of thin air. And the sender was Wendell.

Melody’s eyelids twitched. She suddenly felt Ken’s mother’s death might be the same as her mother’s situation.

They were killed by the despicable third parties.

Just then, Margaret and Sara downstairs seemed to sense their gaze and looked up.

Melody and Ken did not have time to dodge. Margaret and Sara had seen them.

Margaret frowned and shouted upstairs, Ken come down!

Her voice filled with authority.

Ken responded tepidly and said: I don’t think I have time to drive you to the office. I’ll get James to drive you.

Melody knew he had to deal with Margaret first, so she did not ask further. She agreed and followed Ken downstairs.

Margaret’s face darkened when she saw Ken. However, her expression softened when her gaze landed on Melody, who was following behind.

Melody… said, Margaret.

Melody greeted with a smile. Margaret, you look like you’re all healed up.

Margaret was happy. She also felt she was much better, but it became even more credible when these words came out of Melody’s mouth.

She turned to Sara and introduced Melody, this is Melody Fox, the person who saved my life. I told you about her on the way over here. Melody Fox? Sara gritted her teeth when she heard the name. Isn’t that name the same Melody Fox who beat up Barclay and put him in the hospital? I did not expect her to be Margaret’s savior, Sara thought.

Sara took a deep breath and tried her best to maintain the smile on her face. Miss Fox, you have such good medical skills at a young age. I’m impressed!

Thank you for your compliment, Melody replied politely without batting an eyelid. However, her eyes were secretly sizing up Sara.

Melody thought: Sara looks similar to Fairlee, but there is a hint of shrewdness and sharpness in her eyes. She is a tough nut to crack. I wondered if Ken could find any traces left behind by Sara back then. However, I do not have the time to get involved in this mess. Ken is working hard to investigate the cause of his mother’s death. I have to work even harder. With that in mind, Melody took the initiative to say goodbye. Margaret, I’m relieved to see you’re recovering well. I have something on. I’ll see you another day.

Margaret nodded. Remember to visit me more often. Only you can talk to me more in this family.

Alright, Margaret! Melody nodded with a smile and waved goodbye.

Before she could walk far, she heard Margaret reprimanding Ken, What happened at Sara’s house? I heard you brought people to her house to arrest someone. I would have thought it was a rumor if I hadn’t heard it myself.

Melody could not help but worry for Ken.

Sara said pretentiously, Margaret, don’t make things difficult for Ken. Perhaps he has some unspoken secrets…

Margaret became even angrier as soon as she heard Sara’s words.

We two families have always been close. What unspoken secrets can he have? Ken tell me, what’s going on? How do you plan to resolve it?

Melody walked further away, and slowly she couldn’t hear what they were saying.

On the other side, Ken watched Melody leave before meeting Margaret’s gaze. He said methodically, Grandma, you’ve misunderstood me. I’m not with those police officers who went to arrest someone. I was there to warn Sara.

Compared to Sara, Margaret naturally believes Ken more.

There’s been a misunderstanding, Margaret told Sara.

Impossible! Sara said. Suppressing her anger, Ken don’t bully your grandma by deliberately lying to her without her presence.

Lie to her? Ken’s eyes were deep as he said: Why would I lie to her? Sara, if you have the time to sow discord between my grandma and me, why don’t you educate the rest of the Lawrence family members before you let it go?

You…!

Sara choked and felt a little guilty.

Ken said faintly, Let’s talk about Fairlee first. She covered up Benny’s evil deeds…

Ken listed the crimes committed by the members of the Lawrence family one by one. The more he spoke, the more awful Margaret’s expression became.

Sara wanted to stop Ken, but she could not shut his mouth. She could only forcefully interrupt, Margaret, I just remembered I have to find a lawyer. I’ll go back now.

Then she turned and left in a panic with her eyes full of unwillingness before Margaret could respond.

Don’t they say Ken is a quiet person who doesn’t bother to explain himself no matter how he is slandered? Is Astrid lying to me? Thought Sara.

She gritted her teeth and thought that she had to ask Astrid out to resolve the matter.

After Sara left, Ken was about to speak when he heard Margaret speak first. Ken tell me the truth. Why are you treating the Lawrence family like this?

Grandma, Didn’t I tell you? It’s just a coincidence…

He was interrupted by Margaret before he could finish his sentence.

I watched you grow up. There’s nothing you can hide from me. Tell me, I’m not the kind of person who helps outsiders.

Ken could not help but pursed his lips in silence.

It turns out grandma has guessed everything, thought Ken.

After a moment of silence, Ken said, I don’t think the cause of my mother’s death was that simple back then.

Do you think it has something to do with the Lawrence family? Margaret asked.

Well…

Margaret sighed deeply and said: It’s been so many years. Can’t you let it go and live your life?

I just want an answer, said Ken.

Ken’s gaze was resolute. Margaret knew she could not persuade him, so she could only give up.

Since you’ve decided to find out, find out. I’ll speak up for you before your father.

Ken’s heart ached.

Grandma…

Alright. I didn’t eat well this morning. Come and eat with me.

Okay!

On the other side, Melody walked to the gate and met James, who was waiting for her by his car. Sorry to bother you, Melody said when their eyes met.

James snorted and got into the car. He looked like he could not be bothered to speak to her.

After Melody got into the car, James said coldly, Don’t forget my bet with you. If Regina doesn’t come looking for you, you must divorce Ken immediately.

Chapter 267

Melody would have forgotten about it if James had not mentioned it.

She said calmly, Sure. Coincidentally, I’ve thought of what I want you to do.

Their bet was to do one thing for each other unconditionally.

James did not think that Regina would come looking for Melody.

The homewrecker was already feeling guilty enough. Why would she come looking for Melody? Therefore, James asked without thinking. What do you want me to do?

Take Janet to see a doctor.

What? James asked in surprise.

Melody said calmly, Didn’t you say Miss Murphy is infertile? What I want you to do is find a hospital and let her do another checkup without her knowing you’re taking her to check her infertility.

That’s it?

That’s it!

James looked at Melody in amusement. Sometimes, I don’t know if you’re stupid or just pretending to be stupid. What’s so difficult about this? What’s in it from you?

You don’t have to know that. The unconditional meaning is that you don’t ask questions and only do it.

Alright! You said it yourself. You can’t ask for anything else, James said.

Don’t worry. I’ll keep my word.

James took a long look at Melody. Then he hit the gas and drove off.

Soon, Melody returned to the laboratory with the equipment. However, the movement of her holding the equipment also attracted Leo’s attention.

He called Tim Mayer, the person in charge, and asked coldly, How’s Melody’s progress? Is she under surveillance?

Tim did not care about Melody at all, let alone keep an eye on her. He could not help but lower his head guiltily. Staring at his shoes, he stammered… That young girl. We don’t have to make such a fuss, right? You don’t have to take her seriously at all…

Leo immediately knew Tim had ignored his words when he heard Tim’s words.

He slammed the table and said, Idiot! I told you to keep an eye on her. Why are you talking so much nonsense? What are you going to take responsibility for if she develops a new product?

Tim was shocked and quickly promised, Please don’t worry. I’ll keep an eye on her immediately!

Get the hell out of here! I’ll make it difficult for you to survive in the entire industry if you don’t do it right!

Tim was scolded badly and hurriedly walked out of the office.

After he went out, he could not help but mutter…Is there a need to be so paranoid? Anyone with a discerning eye can tell what the girl is capable of!

However, Tim immediately went to the spare laboratory under Leo’s pressure.

In the spare laboratory…

Melody had just installed the equipment and was about to use it when she sensed someone approaching.

She quickly put away the newly written formula and continued to fiddle with the equipment with a natural expression.

Tim’s voice sounded at the door a few seconds later.

Miss Fox, what are you doing?

Melody turned around and met Tim’s smiling eyes.

She instinctively looked away in disgust and replied indifferently, “Work”.

Tim felt Melody’s cold attitude and was a little upset.

However, he still maintained his smile as he looked around the laboratory. Finally, his gaze landed on the new equipment.

Miss Fox, you are so dedicated. You bought this equipment with your money. Tim smiled even more hypocritically.

Melody asked impatiently. Mr. Mayer, can I help you? If you don’t mind, please leave. Don’t disturb my work.

Tim couldn’t laugh anymore. His face turned gloomy as he said: Miss Fox, have you forgotten that I am in charge of this floor, and it is not for you to tell me to go out?

Melody looked at Tim coldly and said: I haven’t forgotten that you are in charge here, but don’t forget that developing new products is the company’s top priority. If the higher-ups know you are bothering me, you’ll be the first to scram.

You…

Tim was furious. He would have hit Melody long ago if it weren’t for the fact that Melody was a girl! Tim took a deep breath and tried hard to suppress his anger. He stopped pretending to be kind and said coldly: Melody, don’t use the new product to bet on me. When the bet fails, you’ll be the first to die! Then he took a deep look at the equipment, narrowed his eyes, and left.

The laboratory was finally quiet.

Melody locked the laboratory door from the inside and turned around to continue her experiment.

With the equipment, the speed of extracting the essence of medicinal materials was many times faster.

Melody didn’t even bother to eat lunch until the sunset. The ratio had finally been adjusted, and she was only waiting for the final experiment.

She could start the clinical trial once the experiment was successful.

Cosmetics were not like medicine. So the results couldn’t be out on the same day. However, three days were enough.

But, the day after three days is the day of the bet. She still could not relax.

The concoction ratio was too tiring. Melody had run out of herbs and needed to finish work early today to pick up more at Herbathrive.

Melody stretched and was about to go to Herbathrive for a meal when her phone suddenly rang.

It was an unknown number belonging to Silverlake. Melody vaguely felt the call might be unusual. The moment she picked up the call, she turned on the recording button.

Who is this? Regina’s voice came from the other end as soon as Melody finished speaking. Melody… Oh, no. Miss Fox, it’s me. Regina Sterling. We’ve met twice before.

Melody raised her eyebrows. She was glad her premonition was right and recorded the call in advance.

Melody took her time. What can I do for you?

Well… Do you remember you had an operation on a person who was injured in a car accident?

Yes, I do!

He needs a second operation now. Can you come over and help me? Don’t worry, money is not an issue! As long as you can make him survive the operation, I can give you 20 million dollars.

Melody did not forget to raise the price as she walked out.

40 million dollars.

40 million dollars? Where do I get so much money? Regina asked.

You didn’t spend the money at yesterday’s auction, did you? Melody said.

Regina’s money was Jennie’s. It certainly wasn’t clean money. If Melody did not take the opportunity to earn a sum, she would be letting Jennie down.

On the other end of the phone, Regina could not help but grit her teeth and say: Melody, don’t extort money!

As soon as Regina finished her words, there was a rush at the door…

Dr. Sterling, have you changed into your surgical gown? The patient’s oxygen saturation has decreased again. The anesthesiologist is ready. All we need is you!

Regina covered her phone microphone and said to the door, Don’t rush me. The more you rush me, the more anxious I’ll be. It’ll be slower, instead.

Alright, hurry up, then.

The urging finally stopped.

Regina removed her hand from the microphone and whispered: Alright! 40 million dollars. Come over immediately!

Sure, transfer the money to me now. I’ll be there in 15 minutes.

Regina gritted her teeth so hard that they were about to break, but she could only brace herself and agree. Send me your account number. I’ll transfer it to you now. Hurry up!

Got it, Melody replied.

Melody’s voice was lazy, but she was not in a hurry. It was because she guessed the patient’s condition wouldn’t be a big problem for a while.

It was not until the transfer notification arrived that Melody reached out to hail a taxi and got in.

However, she did not notice that a gaze was fixed on her back as she left.

Chapter 268

Melody sent the recording directly to James on her way.

She had won the bet.

Soon, James called.

He said indignantly: It’s just a recording. Who knows if you got someone to fake it so wouldn’t divorce Ken?

You can come to the central hospital now if you don’t believe me. We’ll meet at the entrance of the Insterimond Hospital, Melody said with a frown.

Alright! James agreed without hesitation. He didn’t give up. At the same time, Insterimond Central Hospital.

Regina tried to buy time.

She had originally decided not to participate in the operation and would disappear that day. However, Regina did not expect Lucas’s condition to become serious suddenly when she coincidentally came to the hospital to visit Lucas today and confirmed with the Morgan couple about joining the research team.

The time for Lucas’s second operation had been advanced, and Regina was put on the spot…

Regina would not have come to the hospital to visit Lucas today if she had known it would happen. Regina finally got a text from Melody after her delay.

Melody was already downstairs.

Regina heaved a sigh of relief and opened the door.

When the doctor saw Regina coming out, he hurriedly rushed up and said: You’re finally out! Let’s enter the operating room quickly.

Not yet, Regina said, feigning profoundness. I’ve never worked with any of you on an operation before. I was afraid there’d be a problem with the coordination. So I got one of my assistants. She’s already downstairs and will be up soon.

The doctor could only nod.

Coincidentally, the Morgan couple also came over to ask because the operation had not started for a long time. Regina repeated her words.

Ander nodded solemnly. Alright! we’ll wait for your assistant. There can’t be any mistakes in Lucas’s operation.

Well… Regina said at the right time, When can my mother and I join your team?

Ander looked at Regina with a complicated expression.

He did not like the people with a clear purpose, but Regina saved his son’s life. At the moment, she was the only one who could save Lucas. Thinking of that, Ander suppressed the displeasure in his eyes and said: I’ll start the process immediately when the operation is over.

Thank you so much! Regina replied. There were hurried footsteps down the corridor just as Regina finished her words.

Regina looked up and saw it was Melody.

However, someone was behind her. Regina took a closer look. Isn’t it James who had brought Melody into the auctions? Why is James here, too…? Regina thought.

Regina was afraid that her lie would be exposed, so she took a few steps forward without saying a word and dragged Melody to the changing area.

When they passed Ander and Zue, Regina said: We’re going to change into surgical gowns and start preparing for the operation. As for the unrelated people… please leave.

Unrelated people, of course, she referred to James.

Ander responded and said to James, Sir, I’m sorry. Can you wait downstairs? The operation is about to begin. It needs absolute silence.

James had confirmed that he had lost the bet.

Fortunately, the bet was only to take Janet to the hospital for a checkup. It was not difficult at all.

However, it was his first time to be chased out like that. He could not help but say with a gloomy expression, I’m an unrelated person? Is this how you treat the friend of your son’s savior?

Ander, who did not know James, sneered inwardly.

Aren’t you just a friend of Regina’s assistant? An assistant claimed to be my son’s savior? Young people nowadays are getting more and more conceited! Ander thought.

Ander’s face darkened, and he was about to fly into a rage, but Zoe beside him hurriedly tugged at Ander’s sleeve. Stop talking. Our son is still waiting for the operation!

Then, Ander suppressed the anger in his heart.

Zoe smiled and said, Sir. There are no seats in the corridor. Why don’t I take you to the opposite side of the hospital for a cup of coffee?

James saw Zoe’s attitude was right. He pursed his lips and said: No, thanks. You guys wait here, and I’ll wait outside.

Then, James turned around and left.

Regina heaved a sigh of relief when she saw James leave. She pulled Melody into the changing room.

The changing room was connected to the operation room. After changing into sterile clothes, Regina and Melody walked into the operating room one after another.

On the way, Regina deliberately asked: How many assistants do you need for the operation? Can I be the only one?

She did not want the most talkative doctor to tell others that she could not operate at all…

Melody frowned. It’s enough, but the anesthetist can’t leave.

The anesthesiologist monitored the patient’s condition in real-time throughout the procedure in addition to administering anesthesia to the patient. The anesthesiologist was important in the operation team, but many people did not know that.

Okay! Regina quickly nodded.

He is just an anesthetist. I can tell him to shut up. I only need to ask the nurses and doctors to leave. It was only a dozen yards away, and Regina and Melody quickly arrived at the operating room.

Regina said: Other than the anesthetist, everyone else can leave now. To undergo the operation, it is important to ensure absolute quietness. We three here are enough.

The attending doctor could now help but say, Can you three do it?

Why don’t I stay?

How can you stay? Then wouldn’t the matter be exposed? Regina thought.

Regina thought so inwardly. However, she pretended to be serious and said: Dr. Stanton, don’t you want the patient to finish the operation quickly? I’ve said it. Three people are enough. You can’t help much here. I don’t feel comfortable with you here.

Rodney was a serious and complicated man. He dared not say anything else when he heard Regina’s words. Then, he left the operating room with the other nurses.

After Rodney came out, Ander could not help but ask in confusion, Dr. Stanton, why did you come out?

Rodney said ashamedly: Dr. Sterling said I can’t help much inside. I might as well wait outside. But I felt Dr. Sterling’s technique was superb last time. I believe she can do it.

Ander felt that something was wrong.

The operating room needs absolute quietness, but having an old doctor like Dr. Stanton in it can only be beneficial. Why does Regina let him out? Is Regina confident, or are there other reasons? Thought Ander. However, Ander quickly stopped thinking about it. As long as the results were good, it did not matter if Rodney was around.

Regina heaved a sigh of relief inside the operating room when she saw Rodney and the others leave. Then she walked to the anesthesiologist.

After some communication, the anesthetist successfully became Regina’s subordinate.

All the people who would reveal her secret were no longer around. She would still be Lucas’s only savior.

However, Regina saw Melody looking at her deeply when she turned around. Melody’s gaze was bright and sharp as if she could see through the secrets in Regina’s heart at a glance. Regina suddenly felt guilty and forced herself to ask: Why are you staring at me? You took my 40 million dollars. Aren’t you going to start the operation?

Melody said with a half-smile, Regina, there’s so such thing as an impenetrable wall in this world.

Regina knew Melody had seen through her plan when she heard that.

She gritted her teeth and warned, You took my money, so you can’t take the credit. Otherwise, I can sue you for extortion. The 40 million dollar transfer is evidence!

Chapter 269

The reason Regina was willing to pay Melody 40 million dollars so readily was that she insisted Melody couldn’t say she was the one who saved Lucas after Melody had accepted the money.

It was a good deal to trade 40 million dollars for a chance for her to join the Morgan research team was an excellent deal. With that in mind, a smile appeared on Regina’s face. She said leisurely: You can go and check how many years you’ll be sentenced to for such a large sum of blackmail.

Melody raised her eyebrows. Regina was not stupid. She knew how to use it to threaten Melody. However, Melody didn’t care. It didn’t matter to her who saved the life. The important thing was that nothing could happen to the patient. It was that Melody had met Lucas. Moreover, she had performed his first operation. Melody would feel bad if anything happened to Lucas.

Therefore, Melody would still do her best to operate on Lucas even if Regina did not give her 40 million dollars. Melody could not be bothered to argue with Regina. She said seriously: I will operate, but you must cooperate with me during the process.

I’ll even without you telling me. Let’s get started! Regina urged impatiently.

Melody pursed her lips and did not say anything else. She began to prepare for the operation.

Previously, Melody dared to bet with James because she saw Lucas’s spleen was also damaged when she operated on him.

However, Lucas’s heart condition was too bad at that time, so Melody could only deal with his heart first. Lucas’s damaged spleen happened to be close to his damaged heart. One who had not participated in the heart operation could not perform the spleen operation at all.

Since Regina had taken Melody’s credit, the hospital would let Regina participate in the operation. As long as Regina did not want her matter to be leaked, she would certainly come to Melody.

Soon the preparation for the operation was complete. Melody officially began the operation after communicating with the anesthetist.

Scalpel… Hemostatic forceps… Medical scissors… Melody methodically asked Regina for surgical items.

At first, Regina was quite cooperative. However, she became angry and complained. Do you think I am your servant? These things are right here. Can’t you get them yourself?

Melody frowned and stared at Regina coldly.

Is this what you meant by cooperation? Melody asked.

Regina retorted unhappily; I’m telling the truth. Don’t you have hands? Can’t you take it yourself? Don’t think you’re so great just because you know how to operate. I’m not going to serve you. I didn’t spend 40 million dollars to hire you to order me around! Then, Regina did not want to do it. She pulled a chair over and sat down.

Melody was so angry that she laughed.

Don’t you know this is what the assistants are supposed to do? Do you want me to touch the patient’s internal organs while touching the items on the table? Can’t you have some basic knowledge?

Without looking up, Regina said: I study traditional medicine, not your trifling operations skills. Anyway, I don’t care. Hurry up and continue the operation!

You…

Even the anesthetist, bribed by Regina, could not stand to watch the scene. He stepped up and said: Miss, let me help you.

Melody took a deep breath. She knew it was not the time to quarrel with Regina. Melody could only suppress her anger and continue the operation with the anesthetist’s cooperation.

Regina, sitting on the chair, was happy and relaxed. After taking the gloves off, Regina took out her phone and texted Jennie.

She hadn’t dared to tell Jennie, her mother that she hadn’t bought Draba last night. Now that she was about to make a huge contribution, it was time to tell Jennie.

She believed Jennie would not blame her.

Soon, she finished editing a large paragraph of text, highlighting the promise Ander had made to her.

Jennie replied not long after.

[you can’t even do such a small thing!] [Forget it, I’ll find time to personally go overseas to buy Draba.] [By the way, are you sure the person you found can save Lucas? Nothing can go wrong with the research team! You can’t let Ander know you weren’t the one who saved Lucas.]

Regina knew from the reply that Jennie was not angry with her.

Ander’s favor was much more important than the Draba.

She quickly replied. [Lucas’s first operation was performed by the person I hired, so there shouldn’t be any problems. I have sealed her mouth with the money I used to buy Draba. She dare not speak out.]

After receiving the message, Jennie heaved a sigh of relief and replied: [That’s good. I’m going to meet the people from Silk Beauty Cosmetics soon. Then, I’ll go straight to the Insterimond Central Hospital to look for you.]

[Okay, Mom.]

Regina was in a great mood after replying.

It seems that things are going well on Mom’s side. Mom and I will soon have Icy Clear Cosmetics. I can foresee the pharmaceutical makeup market in Halcyon will belong to us.

Regina’s face, hidden behind a mask, smiled smugly when she thought about that. She glanced in the direction of Melody. Upon seeing the operation was still ongoing… Bored, she turned on her mobile game and fought hard in the canyon of the game.

Meanwhile, Melody was also doing her best on the operating table.

The operation lasted for more than three hours.

When Melody finished the last stitch, her vision blurred after a day without food.

However, she still forced herself to take out the acupuncture bag that she carried with her and seriously placed a needle on Lucas.

Finally, Melody fainted and collapsed on the ground after completing the operation.

Miss! Are you alright? The anesthetist quickly went over to support Melody, but he saw Melody had fainted. He quickly turned to Regina for help.

Miss Sterling, please come and give me a hand. Let’s help her out…

What a bother! Regina turned off the game and walked to Melody. Then, she asked the anesthetist, how’s the operation going?

It went smoothly, the anesthetist replied. Then he repeated, Miss Sterling, please help me carry her…

It’s just an operation. How useless! Regina complained as she carried Melody. Regina wouldn’t care about Melody’s life or death if it weren’t for the fact that Melody had fainted here and Regina couldn’t explain it. Upon seeing Melody’s ugly face right before here, Regina squatted with a disgusted look and carried Melody onto the stretcher with the anesthetist.

After Melody lay on the stretcher, she regained her consciousness for a moment and weakly reminded Regina, who was closest to her.

The needle on his body must be removed in 10 minutes.

Then Melody’s vision blurred again, and she fainted.

You’re such a slob!

Regina cursed and told the anesthetist to push Melody out of the operating room through the other passage. Then, she deliberately pretended to be weak and staggered to open the main door of the operating room.

As soon as the door opened, Ander and Zoe immediately came forward to ask about Lucas’s condition.

Regina, how’s Lucas?

Regina, how’s Lucas’s condition?

Rodney was also anxious because he was not in the operating room. He was worried about the situation inside.

However, it was inappropriate for him to squeeze in front of Ander and Zoe to ask, so he could only ask Regina with his eyes.

Regina opened her mouth. Suddenly she closed her eyes and fell to the ground…

Chapter 270

Regina!

Miss Sterling!

Everyone was shocked and supported Regina hurriedly.

Regina smiled apologetically with a weak expression and said: I’m sorry. The operation took too much of my energy. I may have had a little low blood sugar… Sorry for the trouble.

Zoe was touched. She supported Regina and said: Regina, we’ve seen your sincerity toward Lucas. It’s been hard on you!

After playing the game for three hours, Regina shook her head weakly. No, it’s not hard. It’s all worth it. The operation was carried out smoothly. Dr. Stanton, please go inside and see Lucas. If he’s all right, he can be transferred to the ICU for observation.

Alright, I’ll go inside now.

Rodney quickly entered the operating room and came out a short while later.

Don’t worry the operation went smoothly. Mr. Morgan’s vital signs have stabilized. I believe it won’t be long before he’s transferred from the ICU to a normal ward.

Ander quickly asked, how long will it take for Lucas to wake up?

He’ll probably wake up tonight but can’t talk yet. He’s got an oxygen tube in him.

That’s good. Ander heaved a sigh of relief.

Rodney could not help but look at Regina in admiration. He said, Miss Sterling, you’re young and promising. Let’s not talk about the success rate of such a difficult surgery. The operation alone would take to six hours if it were me, but you operated brilliantly inn three hours. You’ve broadened my horizons!

Regina was flattered by the praise. She felt that she was the one who did the operation at that moment. She smiled shyly and said: I was just lucky. There were no accidents during the operation, so the operation ended so quickly.

Miss Sterling, you are too humble. I would have been arrogant long ago if I had such medical skills when I was your age, Rodney declared. Then, he asked curiously, Why didn’t I see your assistant when I went in?

She…Regina wanted to say something but hesitated. She sighed: My assistant is good at everything but has a bad temper. I said a few words to her during the operation with me, so I let her leave through the back door.

Rodney shook his head. I would have been your assistant if I had known that would happen.

It’s okay. I did it alone, didn’t I?

Yeah! Rodney replied, but his eyes were filled with displeasure toward Melody.

The more Zoe looked at Regina, the more she liked her. She turned to remind Ander, Honey; Regina has completed the surgery. Hurry up and follow the previous agreement to let Regina join your team. She’s so capable that she’s completely qualified to enter the team.

Ander nodded. That’s right. I’ll go through the process…

The emergency call sounded suddenly in the operating room as soon as Ander said his words.

It was the sound the machine made when the patient’s vital signs were in serious trouble.

No!

Rodney’s expression changed drastically as he walked toward the operating room.

Although Regina did not understand what the voice meant, she could tell from Rodney’s reaction that Lucas’s condition had suddenly deteriorated.

What’s going on? Isn’t the surgery completed smoothly? How could this be? Regina pondered, and then she panicked.

However, Ander and Zoe trusted her immensely. They asked: Regina, what happened suddenly? Didn’t you say that the operation had been completed?

Regina said with a pale face, I… I… don’t know either…

Go in and have a look! Ander urged.

Regina gritted her teeth. Just as she was about to pretend to faint, Rodney used out and grabbed Regina’s sleeve. Dr. Sterling, Mr. Morgan’s heart rate suddenly plummeted. Come and see what’s going on.

I… I don’t know either…

However, Rodney couldn’t care less. He pulled Regina inside. At that moment, Ander and Zoe could not care less and ran into the operating room, too.

Rodney pointed at the silver needle on Lucas’s body and asked: Isn’t it related to the silver needle you inserted?

Regina suddenly remembered what Melody told her before she fainted.

Melody told Regina to remove the silver needle in 10 minutes.

However, Regina did not take Melody’s words to heart at all. Because she was in a hurry to get benefits. She had long forgotten about the matter. Now that Regina thought about it, she quickly went over and removed the silver needle from Lucas’s body.

However, it would have been better if she had not pulled out the silver needle. With that pull, Lucas’s heart rate became a straight line.

The instruments in the operating room beeped almost at the same time.

How did that happen? Didn’t she say that he would be fine after removing the silver needle? Why is the situation worsening even faster? Could it be that Melody is lying to me that the silver needle could not be moved at all? Regina’s face was pale, and her mind was in a complete mess.

Rodney was super anxious. As he instructed his assistant to perform CPR on Lucas, he asked Regina, Miss Sterling, you can’t remove the silver needle, can you? Hurry up and insert the silver needle back!

I… Regina’s forehead was covered in cold sweat. She had completely forgotten what acupuncture point the silver needle was inserted into. It would be great if she knew she acupuncture point. However, she didn’t know at all!

As Ander watched Regina’s reaction, the doubt in his heart became increasingly apparent.

He frowned and asked: Regina, why don’t you think of a way to save Lucas quickly?

That’s right! Regina, quickly think of a way! Why don’t you try putting the silver needles back to see? You’re so powerful, you definitely have the ability to save Lucas!

Zoe’s words flattered Regina.

Regina felt guilty and flustered, but there was nothing she could do. She could only stand there in a daze.

Then the anesthetist could not stand it anymore.

He loved money, and so did everyone. However, he still had basic ethics as a doctor. Hence, he could not help but say, Miss Sterling, why don’t you get your assistant to come over and ask her to insert the Silver needle back… I’ve asked someone to put an intravenous drip on her. I think she should be awake by now.

When Ander heard that, he asked: What assistant? Which assistant did the silver needle?

Just as the anesthetist was about to speak, Regina quickly said, Yes! I’ve done the operation, but she said the effect would be better after the acupuncture, so she didn’t listen to my advice and directly performed acupuncture on Lucas. I thought it was fine, so I let her do it. I didn’t expect…

Bastard! Ander ordered with a livid expression. Bring that crazy woman over immediately!

Regina’s heart was racing, but she believed that with her glib tongue and the trust that Ander and Zoe had in her, they would never believe Melody. Hence, it did not matter if Melody cam over. It just so happened that Regina could push all the blame to Melody.

Soon, Melody was brought over. She still had an IV drip in her hand. She held onto the rack with the IV drip hanging from it as she walked. Is the patient alright? Why are there so many people in the operating room? The patient’s immunity is very low now. It’s best if you don’t stay here.

Melody’s heart was filled with concern for Luca’s health, but as soon as she said her words, she heard Ander reprimand her. Stop putting on act here!

Prev | Next 

Chapter 256

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter 257

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I… I …. Mabel’s expression froze.

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

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

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

Chapter 258

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter 259

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

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

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

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

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

Melody muttered, is this really necessary?

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

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

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

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

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

Back to my family home, Melody replied.

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

Melody was confused. When did that happen?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Melody walked forward calmly and said, Dad.

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter 260

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Of course… James spoke up.

Mabel clutched her dress tightly in excitement.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mabel bit her lip, looking for Yolanda for help.

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

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

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

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Chapter 251

Melody looked deeply at Ruby.

As expected of someone from a prestigious family, even when Ruby was chasing her away, Ruby’s tone was polite.

Melody could not help but have a favorable impression of Ruby. Although she had asked Colin to help her so that she could obtain the Taylor family’s secret pill, she now sincerely wanted to help Ruby get pregnant.

Aren’t you leaving? Mason’s face darkened when he saw Melody standing there indifferently. He took out his phone and was about to call the police.

However, at this moment, Melody calmly looked at Mason and said, You’ve been having headaches recently. When your headache is most intense, you’ll temporarily lose sight.

As soon as she said that, the phone in Mason’s hand fell to the dining table with a thud.

Obviously, Melody was right.

When Ruby saw Mason’s reactions, she knew that Melody was right. She was shocked and worried.

Ruby said, Hubby, have you been having headaches recently? Why did you hide such a serious problem from me?

I’m afraid that you’ll be worried. Mason did not have the time to explain at the moment. After answering Ruby, he looked at Melody deeply and asked: How do you know about these things?

He had not even mentioned to Ruby his illness because he thought it was caused by too much work recently. He originally planned to see a doctor after he was done with his work.

However, the situation has been getting worse recently. There would even be the temporary blindness that Melody had mentioned just now.

Melody said calmly, Traditional medicine emphasizes observation, listening and smelling, questioning, and pulse diagnosis. I can see your condition at a glance. If you let your condition worsen without treatment, it will eventually lead to permanent blindness.

Mason thought, “permanent blindness! He was stunned.

When Ruby heard that, she quickly tugged at Mason’s sleeve. Hubby, I don’t think she’s a liar. Why don’t you let her examine you?

In the beginning, Mason was not willing to let Melody remain in his sight for even a second longer. But now, she could actually see his symptoms at a glance. This meant that she was indeed capable.

Just as Mason was still hesitating whether to trust Melody, Melody calmly said, I can treat you, and cure you in less than ten days. However, I need to take your pulse first before I prescribe the medicine for you.

Ten days? Mason was tempted. This illness was really uncomfortable when it acted up. It was as if his head was about to explode.

What was even more torturous was the intermittent blindness. If it acted up at the wrong time, it was very easy for accidents to happen.

Mason gritted his teeth and said, Miss Fox, I’m really sorry just now. It’s just that there are so many liars now, so I misunderstood you.

Ruby also apologized profusely with an extremely sincere attitude.

Melody waved her hand and said nonchalantly, I understand. I won’t take it to heart.

Then, I’ll have to trouble you Miss Fox to take my pulse. As Mason spoke, he took the initiative to pull out a chair for Melody. Then, he sat opposite Melody and extended his hand for her to take his pulse.

Melody placed her fingers on Mason’s wrist and focused on taking his pulse.

After more than a minute, she retracted her hand and said, Alright! I’ll give you a prescription. Get Ms. Wilson to go to Herbathrive to get the medicine for you. You have to be careful not to drink alcohol during this period of time. You have to be accompanied when you go out, in case your illness suddenly flares up and an accident happens.

Alright! Alright… Alright! Mason hurriedly nodded and said, Then Ruby’s illness…

Melody glanced at Ruby and saw that her expression was a little stiff. Melody smiled and said, Ms. Wilson’s face is rosy, so it shouldn’t be a big problem. It’s just that the doctor she saw in the past didn’t find anything wrong, so she couldn’t treat it. However, I have some questions that I need to ask Ms. Wilson in private, so…

Mason stood up tactfully and said, I’ll order a few more dishes for you. You guys chat.

Melody nodded and watched Mason leave. When the door of the private room was closed and the footsteps faded away, Melody said: Ms. Wilson, Colin told me about your situation.

Ruby lowered her eyes and said with mixed feelings, Yes!… Dr. Herbert said that there’s nothing wrong with my body at all. The problem lies with my husband. But his personality… You should have sensed it just now. He’s completely straightforward and a little paranoid. He only believes what he wants to believe. I’m afraid that if I tell him, it will affect our relationship as husband and wife.

Melody patted Ruby’s hand and said, I know what you’re worried about, so I’ve already taken a look at his problem with the excuse of treating his headache.

Ruby immediately asked in surprise, You’ve already helped him take a look?

Melody said, Yes! Besides, I can treat his headache and infertility together.

Ruby paused and asked, Miss Fox, may I ask what’s wrong with my husband? Is it serious? Is it easy to treat?

His sperm motility is too low. Although he’s only 30 years old, if he goes to the hospital for a test, I estimate that his motility level might be about the same as an old man in his 70’s or 80’s.

How did this happen? Ruby covered her mouth in shock.

Melody said: Actually, this is a common problem among men of this generation.

Their motility level is generally lower than that of men from the last century. This is because the men of this generation have great pressure in life and poor living habits. However, it’s rare for their motility level to be as low as his, but fortunately, it’s not a big problem. I happen to have a prescription, you guys can sleep together. I believe you’ll hear good news soon.

That’s great! Ruby exclaimed excitedly.

However, she immediately realized that she had lost her composure. She blushed shyly and apologized, I’m sorry, Miss Fox. I got carried away.

Melody smiled and said: That’s normal. However, if you’re worried that it will affect his mood or your relationship, you can always hide it from him. I’ll say that the prescription is to treat his headache. When his headache has improved, his infertility condition will also have improved. At the same time, I’ll give you a nourishing prescription that’s more suitable for pregnancy.

Ruby nodded repeatedly, her eyes filled with excitement.

At this moment, there was a knock on the door of the private room.

Please come in, Melody said slowly. Only then did Mason push open the door and enter. He asked cautiously, Miss Fox, how’s my wife’s condition?

Melody replied: I’ve already found the problem. I’ll prescribe a prescription for her. Coincidentally, both of you are going to take traditional medicine. You can supervise each other.

Mason nodded repeatedly. He took out a check that he had prepared outside and stuffed it into Melody’s hand.

Mason said, Miss Fox. This is a small token of my appreciation. Please accept it.

Melody looked at the check and realized that Mason had directly given her 20 million dollars.

She quickly rejected him. There’s no need for the money. I’m doing a good deed.

That won’t do. Miss Fox, just accept it. Ruby said.

Melody was silent for two seconds before saying. This money is too much. I really can’t accept it. How about this? When the two of you have good news, I want to ask the two of you for something. At that time, please don’t reject me.

Mason asked, What is it? As long as I have it, you can just ask me for it.

Melody smiled and said, I won’t accept a reward for nothing. When the prescription takes effect, I’ll look for the two of you to fulfill your promise.

Mason said, Alright then. I’ve ordered some dishes. Miss Fox, please have a meal with us.

Melody replied, Then, I’ll oblige.

It just so happened that she had not eaten lunch, and she had something very important to ask Mason.

Chapter 252

However, Melody was not in a hurry to ask Mason. She waited until the meal was almost done before she slowly said, Mr. Taylor, I have something to ask you. I don’t know if you know about it.

Go ahead, Mason said.

Whether his own headache could be cured by Melody was actually secondary. After all, the Taylor family was also a family of doctors. They could always help him treat his minor ailment.

As for Ruby’s illness, it was only because he didn’t want the Taylor family to know that the person he loved couldn’t get pregnant, so he had no choice but to seek doctors outside.

It was a pity that she hadn’t been able to conceive all these years.

If Melody could really let them have a child, he would be extremely patient even if she asked a hundred questions, let alone one question.

Melody thought for a moment before asking, Do you know a woman named Jennie Taylor?

As soon as she asked that, Mason’s expression instantly turned grim.

Am I being rude? Melody asked as she observed Mason’s expression.

No… Mason waved his hand and said in a low voice, it’s just that the person you’re asking about is a taboo for the Taylor family, so when I heard her name, I subconsciously felt a little disgusted. But since you asked, I’ll tell you.

Ruby’s face was filled with confusion. Obviously, she had never heard of Jennie before. She could not help but ask curiously. Taboo? Hubby, who is this person? Why is it a taboo in our family?

Mason subconsciously wanted to get the wine, but when he thought of Melody’s reminder, he held back and took a sip of water. Actually, Jennie is my aunt.

Ruby was even more surprised. I’ve never heard that our father has a sister.

Mason sighed and said: Before we met, Jennie had already been chased out of the house by my grandfather. As for the reason… it was because she wanted to poison my grandfather and seize all of the Taylor family’s assets.

Melody’s expression was calm as she waited for Mason to continue.

Mason looked away. As he reminisced, he said: Jennie is extremely intelligent and proficient in medicine. However, later on, she went astray. Instead of using her medical skills to save people, she used them to harm people and become a Malicious doctor.

After my grandfather found out, he burned all the poison she had developed and warned her solemnly.

However, not only did she not mend her ways, she even poisoned my grandfather. Fortunately, she had a senior at that time called Quintin. He saved my grandfather.

After my grandfather recovered, he chased Jennie out of the house. After that, she seemed to have disappeared from the face of the earth. She has never appeared in front of us again, and we haven’t heard anything about her.

After Mason finished speaking, he looked at Melody curiously and asked: Miss Fox, why did you suddenly mention Jennie who has disappeared for a long time?

Melody looked deeply at Mason and said: I recently discovered a poison that only she and Quentin have. I want to know if Jennie is planning to appear again.

What? Mason’s eyes were filled with surprise. She actually had the cheek to appear?

Melody nodded and then shook her head. I can’t be sure for the time being that she was the one who used the poison. I just want to find out more about her. Since she’s your aunt, I’ll tell you if there are any new developments.

Mason hurriedly said: If it’s really as you said, please inform me immediately so that I can tell the elders in the family. She hates my grandfather to the core. The Taylor family is not as powerful as before. If she appears again, it’s very likely that she will deal with the Taylor family.

Melody nodded. I understand. Don’t worry, I’ll tell you immediately if there’s any news. However, if you have any news about her, please inform me immediately.

Mason said, sure.

After saying that, Melody stood up and said goodbye. Mason and Ruby watched her disappear from their sight before looking away.

Miss Fox… isn’t to be trifled with, Mason said with a frown.

Ruby asked in confusion, Are you saying that her medical skills are superb?

That’s not all. Mason said thoughtfully, Jennie has committed too many misdeeds. The traces of her existence have long been erased by us. However, Miss Fox actually knows Jennie’s name. This means that Miss Fox’s identity is not simple. I have to go back and find out who she is.

Ruby was not interested in Melody’s background. She only cared about Melody’s medical skills.

In the blink of an eye, it was night. After Melody bid farewell to Mason and Ruby, she busied herself in the spare laboratory for the entire afternoon. When she snapped out of her concentration she looked at the time, she realized that it was already past six o’clock.

She wondered when the auction would begin that night.

Just as she was thinking about it, Ken called. I have to deal with the Lawrence family. James will take you to the auction house.

Melody replied, Okay!

She thought. It doesn’t matter who accompanies me, However, the Lawrence family…

She couldn’t help but ask worriedly, The Lawrence family has a lot of connections in Silverlake. Can you handle it? If you really can’t, then forget it. Anyway, nothing happened to me.

Ken’s voice was cold. The Lawrence family isn’t so capable that I can’t handle them. I just want to give them a surprise.

Melody asked: What surprise?

Ken replied: You’ll know when the time comes.

Ken kept Melody in suspense, so she did not continue asking. Since she would find out sooner or later, there was no need to be anxious.

After she got a second chance at life, the first lesson she learned was patience.

A hunter could only capture his prey if he was patient enough. Otherwise, he would only become the prey’s plaything.

However, Ken would bring down the Lawrence family for her. She seemed to feel a stir in her heart.

Ken continued, There’s also something I want in tonight’s auctions. Take the two things you want as a gift. Just bid and let James pay.

Melody paused for a while before answering, Okay!

Ken had actually considered that she did not have much cash on hand. While she was surprised, her heart warmed slightly.

After the call ended, James called. Miss Fox, are you done? I’ll wait for you on the ground floor of Icy Clear Cosmetics.

Melody said: I’ll come downstairs now.

James replied, OK!

Melody packed her things and was about to leave when she happened to meet Leo, who had come to check on her.

Mr. Sherman, Melody greeted him out of courtesy.

Leo asked with a smile, are you off work?

Melody replied, yeah!

Leo asked, how’s the work coming?

She answered vaguely, I’m still working on it.

Leo curled his lips and said, Miss Fox, you don’t have to make things so difficult for yourself. The improved version of Golden Water developed by the employees can be put into clinical trials soon. I think you might as well take a good rest these few days so that you can have the energy to fight when the day of our bet arrives.

Melody looked deeply at Leo and suddenly asked, Mr. Sherman, do you have a girlfriend?

Leo was stunned and asked suspiciously.

Miss Fox, why are you suddenly asking this?

Melody smiled and said: It’s nothing. It’s just that I happen to have an aunt who’s also single. I want to introduce her to you.

No need, Leo refused without thinking. I already have a girlfriend.

Melody asked, Really? How long have you been dating?

She was like a gossipy little girl. Leo was arrogant and did not see her as a threat at all. He answered naturally, I started dating recently. It’s been almost a month.

Melody nodded. Then I’ll wait for the company to win the bet and attend your wedding party.

Sure thing, Leo laughed and seemed to have lost the patience to chat with her. He turned and left.

Melody smiled coldly and said goodbye to Leo heading downstairs.

It was impossible for someone like Jennie to take a fancy to a middle-aged man like Leo who came from a middle-class family and had nothing special about him, unless… Leo had something that she wanted.

Melody wondered, But what does Jennie want? There are too many mysteries surrounding Jennie. Perhaps, it’s time for me to inform Quentin.

Chapter 253

Melody was lost in thought, and when she finally looked up, she was met with James’s scowling face. He immediately began complaining, Miss Fox, didn’t Mr. Swanson tell you? The auction is at seven, and there’s no way you’ll make it in time if you start getting ready now. And yet, you’re still moving so slowly!

Melody had lost track of time while talking with Leo, so she reluctantly said, I guess I won’t bother getting dressed up. It doesn’t make much difference with this face of mine anyway. Having lived with her plain appearance for so long, she had completely stopped caring about her looks.

James’s scowl softened, and he said, Let’s head straight to the venue then, but if Mr. Swanson asks, it’s not on me. You were the one who said you didn’t need to get dressed up.

Of course. Melody nodded. She had a lot on her plate, and today, she was dressed in simple jeans and a short-sleeved shirt-plain as could be. But she would buy things, not walking a runway, so what she wore didn’t matter. However, not everyone was indifferent to appearance and attire. When Melody arrived at the entrance of the auction, she was stopped by security. This is an auction; unauthorized individuals are not allowed in. She had been mistaken for an unauthorized person.

Melody had no choice but to explain, I’m here for the auction.

You? The security guard gave her a once-over and extended his hand, asking, Where’s your invitation? Let me check it.

Melody had been brought by James, who had gone to park the car, so she didn’t have the invitation with her. Frowning, she said, You didn’t ask people who just went in their invitations.

The security guard remained firm. NO invitation, no entry.

Just as Melody was about to argue, a familiar voice came from behind. What are you doing here? Instinctively, Melody turned her head and saw Mabel, arm-in-arm with Regina, looking at her with a displeased expression.

Mabel went to deliver desserts to Ken but was denied access by the front desk. After searching around, she finally got Ken’s phone number, but he promptly blocked her as soon as she introduced herself.

This humiliating experience, being blocked by Ken, had soured Mabel’s mood all day. Seeing Melody being stopped by the security guard, Mabel’s soured mood slightly eased.

She looked down at Melody with disdain and chuckled. Melody, I don’t know why you’re here, but some places aren’t just open for anyone to walk into. Unlike here, who didn’t need an invitation-just as face scanning would do. The Title of “Best Celebrity” held considerable prestige and importance.

Mabel continued to mock Melody, unaware of Regina’s increasingly unnatural expression. Regina never expected to encounter Melody here, and immediate anxiety about being exposed and losing everything consumed her mind. She wondered, Has this oddball seen the news? Will she expose me? The more Regina thought about it, the more frightened she became, fearing that everything she had gained could vanish instantly.

Unable to bear it any longer, Regina discreetly pulled Mabel, who was incessantly taunting Melody, and whispered, Stop talking. Let’s go in. You wanted something from the auction. I’ll give you.

Upon hearing this, Mabel’s eyes instantly lit up. Are you serious?

Regina’s eyes briefly flickered with disdain, which she quickly concealed, nodding subtly. I’m serious.

With her attention now diverted to Regina’s offer, Mabel no longer bothered to insult Melody. She looked coldly at Melody and haughtily remarked, We’re going in. You better leave quickly and stop embarrassing yourself here.

When Mabel’s words fell, a male voice sounded, Miss Fox, why are you still standing at the entrance? Didn’t I ask you to wait for me inside? It was James who had arrived. Meeting James’s gaze, Meldoy spoke slowly, The security guard said I needed to show an invitation to enter.

The security guard, shocked, glanced between James and Melody, his face filled with fear and apologies. So, you’re Mr. Swanson’s associate! I apologize deeply for my mistake. You don’t need to show an invitation. Please come in, and please forgive my rudeness earlier! The security guard seemed on the verge of dropping his knees to Melody.

Upon seeing this, Regina’s eyes widened in surprise. She thought: James is known as Ken’s top confidant. This oddball has a connection with James. Could she possibly use this connection to expose my lies? Regina’s body began to tremble uncontrollably.

Oblivious to Regina’s changing expression, Mabel observed the interaction between James and Melody with increasing mockery in her eyes. She thought: no wonder Ken goes out of this way to help Melody. Turns out she’s gotten close to his right-hand man. How short-sighted of him. I’ll be Mrs. Swanson in the future, while Melody will be nothing more than the assistant’s wife. Or even James might not genuinely like her, maybe he’s just after a fleeting novelty. Mabel became increasingly pleased with these thoughts, to the point where she even hoped the Clark family wouldn’t deal with Melody too quickly. She eagerly anticipated the day Melody would have to address her as Mrs. Swanson.

On the other hand, Melody didn’t want to argue with a security guard, understanding it was simply his job, So, she remained silent and turned directly to James, saying, let’s go in.

James paid no attention to Mabel and Regina. He acknowledged Melody with a grunt and walked alongside her into the venue.

Regina stared directly at Melody’s back, realizing Melody hadn’t noticed her. She sighed in relief, thinking, Looks like she had no idea I took credit for her work. That’s good, then I’ll have to get Mom to spend some money to suppress those news stories to avoid complications. With these thoughts on her mind, Regina walked into the venue.

They arrived late, by now, the venue was nearly complete. Regina and Mabel struggled to find their seats in a corner, only to glance up and see Melody sitting in the front row of the VIP section. Upon seeing this, both of them couldn’t hide their jealousy.

Soon, the auction began. James pointed discreetly to an antique vase in the catalog and whispered, Miss Fox, this is what Mr. Swanson wants.

They had only one bidder’s paddle between them, and Ken had assigned it to Melody, so naturally, the responsibility fell to her. Melody looked at the antique vase in the catalog, her expression somewhat surprised.

Does he like antiques? Melody was surprised that someone who designed high-tech AI products had a liking for antiques.

James shook his head and said, Mrs. Swanson, Ken’s mother kept this in the Pearly Antiques before her passing. After her death, it was sold off. Somehow, it found its way back here and ended up in Benny Lawrence’s possession. That’s why we must secure it in this auction.

Got it! Melody understood instantly, but deep down, she felt today’s auction right not go smoothly.

Soon, the hostess brought the first item up for auction onto the state.

Chapter 254

The first item up for the auction was a necklace encrusted with diamonds. As the hostess brought it on the stage, nearly every woman in the room had their eyes light up except for Melody. She wasn’t fond of overly extravagant things. The auctioneer passionately described the item.

Regina quietly asked Mabel in the back row, Mabel, do you not like your sister?

Mabel always considered Regina a nouveau richer without any background, so she didn’t hold back and said directly, Yes! Ever since that jinx came back, our family hasn’t had a peaceful day. None of us like her, but she acts arrogant, not respecting anyone. It’s infuriating.

Regina smirked and said, I see… In that case, I’ll help you take down a notch today! Whatever she bids on, just outbid her, and I’ll cover the cost. She had come today to buy herbs for her mother, who had given her a generous budget- more than enough to outbid Melody.

She thought, After all, how much money could a girl who just returned from the rural possibly have? Even if Ken’s assistant is willing to pay for her, a mere assistant’s savings probably aren’t substantial. She wanted to make Melody fret over this matter, keeping her too preoccupied to pay attention to any news. Regina’s plan was coming together perfectly.

Mabel, who was beside her, was also pleased. She thought, typical nouveau riche- dumb and loaded! She liked people like Regina.

On stage, the auctioneer finished describing the item and announced the starting bid of 2 million dollars. Mabel loved the necklace, believing she was the only one in the room worthy of wearing it. However, she had squandered her money on the black market and felt a bit embarrassed to ask Regina for help directly. She saw Melody raise her paddle just then. 2.2 million dollars.

Mabel immediately found a good excuse and gave Regina a signal. Seeing Regina nod, she quickly raised her paddle and said. 2.4 million dollars.

In the VIP section, Melody heard the familiar voice and a slow smile formed on her lips. Her suspicions were confirmed; those two didn’t want her to get what she wanted. She rolled her eyes and raised her paddle again. 2.6 million dollars.

2.8 million dollars! Mabel swiftly continued bidding without hesitation.

Melody paused briefly and declared: 4 million dollars.

5 million dollars! Mabel continued bidding without hesitation, unconcerned since it wasn’t her money. She thought, 5 million dollars must be Melody’s limit, right?

However, Melody calmly declared the next moment, 6 million dollars.

Mabel gritted her teeth in frustration, thinking, how dare she! She doesn’t even assess whether she deserves this necklace! She raised her paddle again and shouted 7 million dollars.

Without hesitation, Melody raised her paddle and declared: 10 million dollars.

Mabel took a deep breath and spoke coldly. “11 million dollars”

The entire room’s attention shifted to Melody and Mabel. Sitting in the front row, Melody presented only a slender and graceful back, leaving everyone to focus on Mabel instead. Mabel relished the attention, feeling immensely pleased.

Sitting beside Melody, James couldn’t help but frown and quietly warn, Miss Fox, we didn’t come here for you to buy jewelry. Even if you like it, please prioritize correctly. Besides, bidding up to 10 million dollars isn’t a problem, but I don’t want to attract too much attention and affect what Mr. Swanson truly intends to buy.

James’s expression darkened further as Melody, seemingly oblivious to his warnings, raised her paddle: 16 million dollars, she declared.

Upon hearing “16 million dollars”, a collective gasp swept through the room; instinctively, all eyes turned to see Mabel’s reaction. It was clear that 16 million dollars was quite a hefty sum, far more than the necklace was likely worth. Despite knowing this, the pressure of the competition, especially from Melody, made her hesitate and glance towards Regina seated beside her.

Regina’s expression darkened as well. Her mother had given her 40 million dollars, with 20 million dollars explicitly designated for buying herbs, and it was highly likely that knowledgeable competitors would vie with her. In other words, if she continued to bid, she might not secure the desired herbs. Yet, she was unwilling to back down easily. After much consideration, Regina gritted her teeth and said firmly, continue bidding.

She could only afford to spend up to 4 million dollars the most. She refused to believe Melody had more money to add to the bid. But reality struck swiftly, within seconds, Melody continued with 18 million dollars.

Regina’s face instantly soured as if she had bitten into something foul. However, her pride was as strong as Mabel’s next to her, refusing to be outdone by what she considered a village girl. With gritted teeth, she declared, Keep adding up to 20 million dollars. She thought: I must surpass this village girl.

Upon hearing this, Mabel’s heart raced. She thought, 20 million dollars! I’ve never spent so much money at once! Her vanity was greatly satisfied, and she deliberately expressed the amount of money involved indifferently. With a composed demeanor, she raised her paddle and confidently called out: 20 million dollars.

With that statement, the room fell silent, the kind of silence where you could hear a pin drop, followed by murmurs of discussion that began to rise. Who is this wealthy young lady? She’s so willing to spend such a fortune.

Do you not recognize her? She’s Mabel Fox, last year’s Best Celebrity. Rumor has it she’s set to become the future Mrs. Swanson of the Swanson family.

Ah, the Swanson family… That explains it. She’s indeed rich. I have to get to know her after this and build a good relationship with her in advance. The whispers around her filtered into Mabel’s ears. She felt a sudden rush of pride as if she were already the mistress of the Swanson family.

James was visibly frantic, abandoning formalities and addressing Melody directly. Miss Fox, calm down! Since when did you become so obsessed with vanity? Despite her rural upbringing, he had always thought Meldy had a long-term perspective. Now it seemed he had misjudged her. You are not allowed to bid any further! Spending 20 million dollars is fine anywhere else, but not in this situation – I’m afraid I must disagree! James warned firmly.

Melody didn’t respond to James but instead glanced at the back row. Her eyes quickly scanned Regina and Mabel’s expressions before placing her paddle on her knee. She smiled faintly and said, Don’t worry, mission accomplished. I won’t bid any further.

James looked puzzled and asked, what do you mean?

Melody smiled without saying a word, watching as the auctioneer on stage enthusiastically hammered the gavel. 20 million dollars once, 20 million dollars twice, 20 million dollars thrice… SOLD!

As the auctioneer declared SOLD, Mabel, breathed a sigh of relief, her face brightened with a victorious smile. She thought- I knew it; Melody couldn’t compete with me at all! Whether it’s this necklace or the position of Mrs. Swanson in the Swanson family.

Meanwhile, Melody smiled, her expression deep and calm. Beside her, James watched Melody’s demeanor with a slowly furrowing brow. He thought: What is she up to exactly? I hope she doesn’t pull any more tricks!

Soon, the second item was brought up a vase that Ken wanted. The starting bid remained at 2 million dollars.

Melody immediately raised her paddle and declared 4 million dollars.

Mabel was eager to give it a try.

Chapter 255

However, Mabel’s paddle was barely raised when Regina swiftly pulled it back. What’s going on? Mabel asked with a furrowed brow. Didn’t you want to take her down a notch? We just won one; isn’t that enough to dent her ego?

Regina hesitated before speaking the truth. Mabel, I don’t have enough money with me today. I still need to bid on the herbs my mom wants later. We can’t keep competing with her like this. One win is enough; she’s already lost face before us.

Mabel’s eyebrows formed a clear frown as she responded displeasedly, You’re out of money? Why did you talk about taking her down a notch if you don’t have money?

Regina’s expression darkened. Knowing she and her mother needed to establish connections in Silverlake, she couldn’t afford to antagonize Mabel, who was currently prominent in Silverlake’s social circles. She reluctantly apologized, I’m sorry, Mabel. I didn’t bring enough money today…

Mabel pursed her lips but reconsidered,, remembering she now owned a necklace worth 20 million dollars. Her anger subsided a bit. Forget it then!

Regina breathed a sigh of relief when Mabel didn’t bid again. The bidding progressed to 6 million dollars and Melody, from the front row, immediately bid 8 million dollars. The bidder who initially bid 6 million dollars hesitated and did not raise their paddle again, seemingly afraid Melody would drive the price up to 20 million dollars again.

Despite the interest in the vase due to the previous necklace auction, no one else continued the bidding.

Melody successfully acquired the vase Ken wanted for 8 million dollars. James felt relieved. You managed to accomplish something, too. Bid on whatever else you want later. As long as Mr. Swanson’s matters are settled, the rest is up to you.

When Melody heard this, she remained quiet and patiently waited for the desired items. The subsequent items for auction included expensive luxury goods, many of which were gemstones favored by women.

James thought Melody might start revealing her true colors, but she remained still as a mountain, seemingly deep in meditation. He couldn’t help but smirk. He thought, why start pretending now? Why didn’t she control herself from the beginning?

As James was silently criticizing Melody, she suddenly lifted her eyelids. He instinctively looked towards the stage, expecting to see jewelry, but instead, it was an inconspicuous instrument.

The auctioneer announced that the starting bid was 180 thousand dollars.

Melody immediately raised her paddle: 200 thousand dollars.

Seeing no further bids, the auctioneer scanned the room and hammered down the final price. 200 thousand dollars, SOLD!

Melody felt a slight relief as she secured the instrument. Tomorrow, she could begin her experiments, bringing her closer to the successful development of her new product. Not long after, the auction finally began for the herbs. When it came to the Uvograss that Melody desired, she immediately sat upright and alert. Missing the opportunity meant she might not find Uvograss again anytime soon.

On stage, the auctioneer had already begun introducing the Uvograss, highlighting its benefits and rarity. He mentioned, that Uvograss only grows in oases in the desert and currently, no traces of Uvograss have been discovered in Halcyon. Hence, it’s scarce. The starting bid is 2 million dollars per stalk, and we have 5 stalks available, not auctioning individually.

The starting price is 2 million dollars was market value, precisely what Melody had paid for on the black market. Therefore, this price was fair and reasonable. As soon as the auctioneers finished speaking, bidding commenced from the audience below.

11 million dollars!

12 million dollars! The price soared until it reached 16 million dollars, and fewer people raised their paddles.

Regina tightened her grip on the hands, thinking now was the time. She raised her paddle: 18 million dollars!

Melody looked up; her guess was correct; Regina had appeared tonight, aiming for the Uvograss.

The auctioneer raised his voice, 18 million dollars once, 18 million dollars twice…

Regina smiled contentedly. She thought, 18 million dollars, already double the market price, no one should compete with me now.

However, the next moment, Melody raised her paddle: 20 million dollars.

Regina’s eyes widened in astonishment. She thought 20 million dollars! Melody offered 20 million dollars!

She had 40 million dollars and spent 20 million dollars on that diamond necklace earlier. She had no spare cash left to bid. Feeling helpless, Regina had to turn to Mabel for help. Mabel, if I don’t bring back this herb, my mom will skin me alive. Do you have any money on you? Can you lend me some?

Mabel frowned. She thought: This nouveau richer is asking me for money? Isn’t she supposed to be very wealthy? Is she afraid of spending that 20 million dollars on me and trying to make some back? I’m not falling for that.

Mabel feigned guilt as she said: I’m sorry Regina. I spent all the money I saved recently and don’t have much now. I’m sorry.

Regina angrily exclaimed. Y-You must have at least 200 thousand dollars on you, right? I did give you a necklace worth 20 million dollars!

Mabel became displeased. You insisted I bid on that necklace yourself; it wasn’t me something I begged you to give me. Are you trying to guilt-trip me now?

Regina was infuriated; her eyes reddened with anger. She never expected Mabel to be like this. In desperation, she had to call her mother.

At that moment, the auctioneer began counting, 20 million dollars once, 20 million dollars twice, SOLD for 20 million dollars! Congratulations to the lady; the Uvograss is now yours. Melody nodded slightly in acknowledgment.

Regina was frantic and unable to call because the venue’s mobile signal was blocked. Seeing this, Mabel, not wanting to entirely fall out with Regina, who still wanted the necklace, said softly, Regina don’t worry. Melody can’t possibly come up with 20 million dollars. She’s just bidding like this to get back at you for the necklace. Just wait; when she goes to pay, she won’t be able to come up with the money. According to the procedure, the Uvograss will still be yours.

Regina uncertain, asked Mabel, are you sure about your sister? Are you sure she can’t come up with 20 million dollars?

You’ve acknowledged she’s my sister. Do you think I wouldn’t know? Rest assured! She’s just someone who returned from the rural with no background, no money whatsoever, just a stroke of luck and nothing more.

Regina’s complexion regained some color, but she still felt uneasy. She couldn’t shake the feeling that Melody might not be as incapable as Mabel described. Yet, Mabel’s words were based on truth. Melody’s background was widely known in Silverlakes’s social circles. Perhaps Regina was overthinking it.

She thought: Melody had some medical skills, but that didn’t mean she could afford to pay 20 million dollars for the auction. Regina could only hope that Mabel was right in her assessment. Otherwise, she wouldn’t know how to explain to her mother once she returned. Regina took a deep breath and patiently waited for the auction to conclude.

Finally, an hour later, all the items were auctioned off, and the host gave a closing speech. The proceeds from tonight’s auctions, on behalf of our auction house supported by the Silverlake Customs, will be donated entirely to charity. We sincerely thank everyone for attending. Guest who have successfully bid on the items, please proceed to the backstage to sign the auction documents and make payment to collect your purchases.

Regina immediately felt relieved. She thought: Finally, it’s time for the payment process!

Mabel, who was beside Regina, could barely contain her excitement. She thought, Finally, I’ll see Melody’s embarrassed face when she can’t pay! I’m going to livestream this for Dad to see.

Prev | Next 

Chapter 246

Melody didn’t understand why Ken suddenly flared up, but she had never been able to read his mind anyway.

So, she decided not to ask anything and pushed open the car door to get out, leaving Ken to deal with his emotions alone.

Ken watched Melody get out of the car without a word. His eyes were filled with frustration. He frowned deeply as he was about to press the accelerator, but then a loud crash came from the intersection ahead.

Melody and Ken both looked toward the sound simultaneously. They saw a sports car collide with a truck.

The heavy truck, sturdy in build, suffered minimal damage. But the front of the sports car was severely mangled, and its occupant’s fate was uncertain.

Ken pulled out his phone to call emergency services. But before he could dial, the truck unexpectedly reversed and swiftly turned around to flee the scene. His gaze turned cold when he noticed it was an unmarked truck.

Just then, his car door swung open.

Melody immediately said: You go after the truck. I’ll check on the person in the sports car.

With that, she closed the door and ran towards the accident site.

Ken frowned and ordered his men to pursue the truck. He dialed emergency services and then got out of the car to follow Melody’s footsteps.

Seeing Ken catching up, Melody was about to ask why he wasn’t chasing the truck when she saw his men driving off after it. She swallowed her words and hurried over.

The windows of the sports car were shattered, and inside lay a person. That person was unconscious and bleeding profusely from a head wound, slumping over the steering wheel.

Hello? Can you hear me? Melody called out, but there was no response from the occupant. That young man was unconscious.

Ken said indifferently from beside her, Step back. I’ll open the door.

Melody instinctively took two steps back, puzzled as to why Ken didn’t want her to help.

As Ken pulled open the door, shards of glass scattered everywhere. his arm got scratched in the process, blood staining his white shirt crimson.

Melody quickly approached. Your hand… Ken said, don’t worry about it. Help me get him out.

Okay! Melody didn’t say more, assisting Ken in lifting the man from the driver’s seat and gently placing him on the ground. Then, she knelt, reaching for the man’s pulse.

A few seconds later, she frowned and looked at Ken. It’s serious. There’s likely internal bleeding. We need surgery urgently.

Ken pulled up a map on his phone. The nearest hospital is half an hour away from here. Melody said, half an hour is too long. We need to get him to your car. Let’s go to Herbathrive.

Ken asked, Isn’t Herbathrive a traditional medicine center?

Melody replied: they have orthopedics, an operating room, and basic equipment too. Plus, it’s only twenty minutes from here.

Upon hearing this, Ken didn’t hesitate and helped lift the person into his car’s back seat. Melody immediately called Colin.

After knowing the situation, Colin said urgently, I’ll prepare the operating room right away. Be careful on the road, watch the bleeding. I won’t say more. You know what to do.

Okay! Melody replied before hanging up. She took out her acupuncture kit and carefully inserted silver needles into the young man’s body. With a few needles, she managed to control the bleeding that had been gushing out.

Then, she applied pressure to the largest wound and heaved a sigh of relief.

With everything done, Melody realized the back seat was almost entirely stained with the young man’s blood.

She cautiously glanced at Ken in the driver’s seat and said, Um… your car seems to be dirty.

She had recently learned from James that Ken had a severe cleanliness obsession.

Kan glanced at the rearview mirror, looking almost at his wit’s end. Miss Fox, do you really see me as that cold-blooded?

Melody replied, NO!

She averted her eyes, feeling guilty, and dared not speak to Ken again. She seemed to truly understand him well enough.

It was a twenty minutes drive, but Ken raced swiftly and arrived near Herbathrive within over just ten minutes.

Then, his subordinate called to report, Mr. Swanson, we’ve caught the culprit. It’s an unlicensed car.

Understood. Ken was about to hang up when the subordinate continued, And… we found out this guy works under Benny. The car is full of valuable goods and cash he unlawfully detained.

Ken raised an eyebrow, thinking it was quite a coincidence. He ordered: arrest him but keep it quiet for now.

Got it! The call ended, and Ken turned to Melody in the back seat. Did you hear that?

Melody replied, Yeah… no wonder they ran after hitting this man. Seems like Benny wants to minimize his responsibility to get a lighter sentence.

Ken said, What goes around, comes around. That’s why we stumbled upon this accident.

Soon, they arrived at Herbathrive.

Normally closed at this hour, it was fully lit now. Colin was outside with a group of people, ready and waiting. They carefully moved the injured man from the car onto a stretcher.

Thank you. his bleeding is temporarily under control, but his internal organs don’t look good. We need to perform emergency thoracic surgery. Melody walked alongside the stretcher, informing Colin of the man’s condition.

Thoracic surgery? Colin’s expression darkened. Our surgeon is off today. He lives in the suburbs and won’t be here for at least an hour.

Melody fell silent for a moment, then said, I’ll perform the surgery. Can you assist me?

Colin replied, of course! But do you have experience in this area?

Melody smiled faintly. Before my mentor specialized in traditional medicine, he was a renowned top surgeon. That’s something not many people know, but he taught me everything.

That’s reassuring… Colin breathed a sigh of relief and led Melody to change into surgical attire. Once ready, they both entered the operating room.

About half an hour later, police sirens sounded outside Herbathrive.

Hearing the sound, Ken tossed his cigarette and walked out.

Mr. Swanson, what brings you here? The lead officer recognized Ken at a glance. Ken nodded slightly and handed the officer a cigarette.

The officer took it with surprise and fear in his eyes as if was handed a precious gift.

Ken calmly said, We’ve found the culprit, but due to personal reasons, I’ll have to hand him over tomorrow.

No problem! It won’t affect our process. Just bring him to us tomorrow to make a statement. As the officer finished speaking two MPVs pulled up at the entrance.

A red-haired woman in high heels hurriedly got out, ignoring the police officers and asking as she entered, Where’s my brother?

David quickly replied, He’s in surgery…

What? The woman raised her voice sharply. You put my brother in such a lousy place for surgery? Are you trying to kill him?

Chapter 247

Seeing that the girl’s attitude was getting worse, David could not help but retort, Herbathrive is not a simple place. Even if the whole city, Herbathrive is the best dojo for traditional medicine.

What? The girl’s eyes almost popped out when she heard David’s words.

You said this is a dojo of traditional medicine? It’s not even a hospital?

David could not help but frown. What do you mean? It’s the same as a hospital.

Shut up! Take me to see my brother immediately! The girl’s eyes were bloodshot. The two tall bodyguards behind her were pressing David.

David was shocked and subconsciously pointed in a direction.

The girl immediately brought her bodyguards over and quickly arrived at the entrance of the operating theater.

She pounded on the door of the operating theater and shouted, open the door! Hand over my brother!

In the operating theater, Melody was performing the final suture on the wound. When she heard the knock on the door, she could not help but frown.

She said: It’s probably the patient’s family.

Colin sighed and said: Less and less people believe in traditional medicine now. I’m afraid this family member is like this because of this. However, you don’t have to worry. This isn’t the first time we’ve met such a situation, so we’ve already reinforced the door of the operating theater. If we don’t open it from the inside she won’t be able to enter.

Melody nodded and tried her best to ignore the knock on the door. She continued to focus on suturing the wound.

About two minutes later, she heaved a sigh of relief and said: It’s done, but there might be a risk of infection in the future. It’s best to send him to the ICU in the hospital for observation.

Colin, who was watching Melody’s surgery from the side, felt this blood boil. Now that the surgery was over, he actually felt like he had not had enough.

Melody. He calmed himself down and praised from the bottom of his heart. You’re the most skilled young girl I’ve ever seen… Oh, no. Not to mention young people, even those who have studied medicine for decades have to admit their inferiority when faced with you.

Melody smiled humbly and said: It all thanks to my teacher. If he could come out of retirement, I wouldn’t be able to compare to him even if there were ten of me.

Colin shook his head. As the saying goes, the student surpasses the master. Melody, you’re too humble.

Melody curled her lower lip and did not continue the topic. She looked at the boy on the operating table and said, Let’s go and see his family.

Yup!

Colin nodded vigorously. The expression on his face turned from admiration to seriousness.

With a squeak, the door of the operating theater opened.

Regina Sterling, who was outside the door, rushed in immediately. When she saw Melody standing behind the door, she was shocked.

It’s you? Melody? The news about an ugly girl from the countryside had spread throughout the socialite group.

Melody looked at Regina and quickly searched her mind for the girl before her. She confirmed that she did not know the girl, but she found the girl’s face familiar.

She felt that she had seen this face. Suddenly, Melody remembered that this girl’s appearance was 70% to 80% similar to Jennie’s, who she wanted to investigate.

Maybe this girl was from the Taylor family.

Melody suppressed the doubts in her heart and asked, You are?

I’m Mabel’s friend, Regina Sterling!

Melody was stunned.

Her surname was Sterling? If she wasn’t from the Taylor family, could she be someone related to Jennie?

Just as Melody was speculating, Regina suddenly caught a glimpse of Lucas Morgan lying on the operating table from the corner of her eyes. She realized something.

She immediately asked in surprise and anger. Don’t tell me that you were the one who operated on Lucas.

When Melody heard that Regina was Mabel’s friend, she subconsciously frowned, but she still answered truthfully, that’s right. I operated on him. The patient is out of danger now, but he still needs to…

However, before she could finish her sentence, Regina grabbed her collar tightly.

Melody! You actually dared to operate on him! What right does a country bumpkin like you have? If he dies, you won’t be able to compensate him even no matter what!

Colin, who was beside them, hurriedly went forward to stop Regina.

Little girl, let go of your hand! If it weren’t for Melody, he would be dead now!

Nonsense! Regina glared at Colin and said: His car is the latest Lamborghini. There are only 100 in the world, and it’s extremely safe. It’s impossible for an ordinary car accident to be a big deal. If it weren’t for you guys, he might have woken up by now!

Colin was completely infuriated. He raised three fingers and said: I can swear on the name of traditional medicine that I’m telling the truth! It was Melody who saved his life. She saved him from the gates of hell!

Traditional medicine? When Regina heard these words, she seemed to be even more agitated. Her eyes were filled with mockery as she said, What a coincidence. I’m a medical student. You idiots who call yourselves traditional medicine masters can adjust women’s periods, but you don’t know how to deal with car accidents and external injuries.

You! Colin was so angry that he almost cursed.

Let me tell you, if anything really happens to Lucas, this lousy place of yours will be closed down! Regina said fiercely. She turned around and ordered the bodyguards behind her, to hurry up and take him to the hospital.

Yes!

As soon as the bodyguards responded, they picked up the stretcher and carried Lucas out.

Colin was about to stop them when Melody grabbed the corner of his shirt.

Forget it. We have to send him to the ICU for observation anyway. We don’t have enough equipment here. It’s a good thing for the patient to be sent to a hospital of modern medicine.

When Colin saw that Melody was calm and did not look angry at all, he could not help but restrain his anger.

This young girl could be so calm. Why couldn’t he?

Thinking of this Colin gradually calmed down and calmly watched Regina take Lucas away.

Sorry for troubling you tonight. It’s already so late. You should go back and rest. Melody was about to leave after thanking him when she suddenly saw a black wallet by the door of the operating theater.

She subconsciously picked it up. She asked around but nobody lost a wallet. She had to open it to check.

There were dozens of bank cards and an ID card in the wallet.

It was the wallet of the boy she had just saved.

The boy had just turned eighteen, and his name was Lucas Morgan.

Lucas… she searched for the name in her mind and quickly recalled Lucas was from the Morgan family in Silverlake.

The Morgan family has been doing scientific research for generations. Even Lucas’s mother was a well-known beauty product tester expert. Almost all cosmetics on the market in Halcyon had to be approved by her signature before being sold to consumers.

However, Melody did not think too much about it. She took the ID card and was about to return it to Lucas.

However, when she reached the door, Regina’s car had already sped away. Even the police car parked at the door had already left.

She had no choice but to keep Lucas’s wallet for the time being.

Anyway, there were so many things in this wallet. Lucas’s family would have to come and look for it eventually.

Melody might even be able to find out if Regina was related to Jennie.

Are you done? A deep voice suddenly sounded.

Melody turned around and noticed that Ken had been waiting for a long time under the street lamp. There were more than ten cigarette butts scattered under his feet.

She couldn’t help but frown. Wait for me for two minutes.

With that, she turned around and ran into Herbathrive.

Ken fell silent as he watched Melody disappear before his eyes.

With a click, he lit another cigarette. The smoke obscured most of his face, making it impossible to see the expression on his face.

Chapter 248

Ken waited under the street lamp for a while. Not long after, Melody walked out with a bag of medicinal herbs in her hand.

Before Ken could say anything, Melody had already given the things to him and said: This is for treating colds and coughs. Since you can’t stop smoking, have some medicine.

Ken looked at the herbs in his arms and pursed his lips. It was hard to tell what he was thinking. He had some relief in his eyes.

He thought that this must be the reason for her to run back.

He raised his eyebrows slightly and said seriously: I don’t know how to eat this. Can you help me?

Melody said without thinking, It’s quite easy. One bag is a portion. Susan can help you.

I…

It’s getting late. Let’s hurry back. Melody interrupted Ken and walked straight to the parking lot. Ken glanced at Melody’s back. It was hard to tell what he was thinking.

He had been troubled by cold and coughing for years. Every year in the same season, he would suffer from this. He had also gone to the doctor, but it was useless. Over time, he had gotten used to it.

A moment later, he clicked his tongue meaningfully and carried the herbs into the car.

The car drove back to the Fox’s place. Melody was about to get out of the car when Ken pulled her back.

What is it? She asked suspiciously.

Ken took a medical bag from somewhere and took a disinfectant and cotton swabs. He stared at her expressionlessly and said: Stretch your leg over.

Only then did Melody remember that her knee had two big wounds when she was escaping from Benny.

Too many things had happened just now and she had not cared about herself at all. Now her knees began to hurt.

Ahen… Melody cleared her throat and said: Let me. I’ll go back and deal with it myself.

However, Ken did not seem to hear her. He frowned and repeated, stretch your leg over.

Melody would be unreasonable if she refused now. She could only endure her embarrassment and raise her foot slightly.

However, just as she raised her leg, Ken grabbed her ankle and placed her leg on his knee.

Melody felt a little uncomfortable, so she subconsciously moved.

However, just as she moved a few times, Ken warned in a hoarse voice, don’t move!

Melody looked at Ken in shock. She saw his face redden.

She instantly realized that she shouldn’t move and quickly sat up straight.

Ken dipped a cotton swab into the disinfectant and mercilessly disinfected her knees.

Melody could not help but gasp in pain. Be gentler…

Ken glanced at her and said: so you’re in pain?

Of course, I …

When the accident happened, you ran faster than me.

Melody pursed her lips and stopped talking.

A few minutes later, the wound was finally treated.

Melody quickly retracted her foot as if she had been electrocuted. She said unnaturally: Thank you! I’ll go back first.

After saying that, she opened the car door and quickly got out. When she closed the door, she heard Ken remind her in a deep voice, “Let the wound stay dry.”

Others would think that he was the one who knew medicine.

Got it! She waved and quickened her pace back home.

It was two o’clock in the morning. When she claimed over the wall, she vaguely saw a figure placing something under a tree in the backyard.

Melody looked up. Wasn’t this Yolanda?

It seemed that Yolanda was hiding the poison used to poison her grandma.

Melody quietly took out her phone from her pocket and took a video of Yolanda.

After Yolanda hid the thing she wanted to hide, she looked around and left quickly after confirming that there was no one around.

In order to prevent Yolanda from suddenly returning, Melody waited for a long time. Confirming that Yolanda would not return, she jumped off the wall.

As soon as she jumped down the stairs, the phone in her pocket vibrated.

It was a text from Yolanda.

I’ve put the things there. Remember to take them. The dosage is the same as before. Don’t let Melody find out.

Melody smiled and replied, Okay!

She went to the place where Yolanda hid the poison and squatted down to check the new herbs that Yolanda had bought.

The medicinal ingredients this time were different from the mercury sulfide Yolanda prepared last time. They were more poisonous, but they were also slow-acting poisons. If they were mixed into Maria’s daily medicine, she would die within a month. There was no cure.

Yolanda was still as vicious as ever.

A cold glint flashed across Melody’s eyes. She put away those things and hid the herbs in a secret place before returning home.

It was really a tiring day.

She didn’t want to move at all. Especially, her knee was wounded. Every time she moved her leg, she felt as if she had been pricked by a needle.

She finally fell asleep after taking a painkiller she had prepared.

At the same time, in the Central Hospital, under Regina’s arrangement, Lucas was quickly sent to the operating theater.

At this moment, a middle-aged man and woman dressed in noble clothes rushed to the door of the operating theater.

When Regina saw the one who came, she quickly stood up from the lounge chair in the corridor. Her eyes were red as she said, Mr. Morgan, Mrs. Morgan, you’re here… Lucas is in the operating theater now. We don’t know the details yet.

Zoe burst into tears.

Ander’s face was also dark, but he was much calmer than Zoe. He asked Regina, Why was there a car accident all of a sudden? Who did that?

Regina was stunned for a moment. When I arrived, he was no longer at the scene of the car accident. I’m not too sure about the details but don’t worry. Lucas is a lucky man. He’ll definitely be fine.

Ander was about to speak when a doctor walked out of the operating theater.

The three of them quickly went up to him and asked about Lucas’s situation.

The doctor took off his mask and said with a complicated expression, the patient is fine. His life is no longer in danger. However… He glanced around and finally looked at Regina. He asked, was it you who performed the emergency surgery on the patient?

Emergency surgery?

Regina immediately remembered what had happened in Herbathrive. Just as she was about to expose the fact that Melody and Herbathrive wanted to kill for money, she heard the doctor say with admiration, you look so young, but I didn’t expect your medical skills to be so superb! Just the suturing technique alone far exceeds the doctors in our hospital! If it weren’t for your timely surgery, the patient would probably be dead now.

Regina swallowed the words she was about to say. Her mind was filled with question marks.

That country bumpkin cinnamon roll was really saving Lucas?

If she had really barged into the operating room of Herbathrive, wouldn’t she have harmed Lucas?

Regina felt a lingering fear.

The three people beside her did not notice her expression.

Zoe said gratefully, Regina, why didn’t you tell us earlier that you saved Lucas? Our entire family will remember your kindness!

Regina subconsciously wanted to deny it, but Ander, who was beside her, said with admiration, Regina, you’ve really surpassed your master. Your medical skills are even better than your mother’s. How about this? To express my gratitude, I can make an exception and agree to your mother’s previous cooperation. When Lucas recovers, let your mother come over to sign the contract and join the scientific research team.

When Regina heard this, she immediately swallowed her denial.

The Taylor family did not accept her mother at all mow, but if her mother joined the Morgan family’s scientific research team, it would be better! Her mother could definitely go back.

Thinking of this, Regina rolled her eyes and said embarrassedly: Mr Morgan, no need for that. Lucas is like my younger brother. I’m already very happy that I can help. How can I ask for any benefits from you?

At this moment…

Chapter 249

A nurse walked out and reported anxiously, “Not good, doctor. The patient suddenly went into shock. I think some other organs have been damaged.

What? The doctor was shocked and quickly walked in.

When Donna, who had just calmed down, heard this, her heart hung in her throat again. She grabbed the doctor’s sleeve and instructed, “Please, doctor, you must save my son! As long as you save my son, we will definitely reward you handsomely!

Don’t say that. This is our dirty. I’ll go in and take a look. The doctor said.

Okay, okay, okay. Zoe returned to her senses and quickly let go of the doctor’s hand.

Only then did the doctor return to the operating theater.

About half an hour later, the doctor came out of the operating theater again.

But this time, anxiety was written all over his face. “Doctor, how is it? Ander also became anxious and hurriedly went forward to ask.

The patient’s vital signs have stabilized for the time being. We’ve done a systematic checkup on the patient and found that his spleen is also severely damaged. He needs another surgery after his body recovers a little. However, the risk factor of this surgery will be higher than the first surgery. So… The doctor’s gaze landed on Regina.

Regina could not help but panic. She did not dare to look at the doctor.

The doctor said, When the time comes, we’ll doctors of Insterimond over, but… we hope that this lady can cooperate with us in the surgery. Her medical skills are superb, and with the expert from Insterimond, the success rate of the surgery will greatly increase.

When Ander and Donna heard this, they hurriedly begged Regina.

Regina, please save Lucas!

Miss Sterling, as long as you can save Lucas again, I can make an exception for you to join our scientific research team…

Regina subconsciously wanted to refuse because she did not know how to perform surgery at all. The medical skills she learned from her mother were only superficial.

Moreover, even her mother did not know how to perform surgery…

Regina had mixed feelings.

She knew that she couldn’t do that, but Ander’s promise was too tempting!

She did not need the Taylor family’s recognition to be able to join Ander’s scientific research team. The Taylor family might even recognize her.

After thinking about it, Regina still could not resist the temptation. She gritted her teeth and said, Alright, I’ll cooperate with you for the surgery.

Maybe she could just use some excuses or pretend to be sick.

She would cross the bridge when the time came. There will always be a way. In any case, Ander and Zoe wouldn’t know about the situation in the operating theater. When the surgery was successful, she would take all the credit.

What a good idea!

The more Regina thought about it, the calmer she became. She said to Ander and Zoe, Mr. Morgan, Mrs. Morgan, don’t worry. I’ve always treated Lucas as my younger brother, so I’ll definitely do my best to treat him!

When Ander and Zoe heard this, their faces were filled with gratitude.

Zoe even wanted to kneel down and thank Regina on the spot, treating Regina as her son’s savior.

On the other side, after Ken returned to Serenity Villa, Susan was woken up by the commotion.

Seeing that Ken had just returned, she quickly asked, Sir, have you eaten? Do you need me to do anything?

No need. Ken put down the bag of medicinal herbs and was about to go upstairs to rest.

Susan asked in confusion, What medicine is this?

Ken stopped and said, It’s for treating my cold, but it shouldn’t be of much use. Don’t worry about it.

He trusted Melody’s medical skills, but his seasonal cough was really not so easy to treat. Just some herbal medicines wouldn’t be of much use.

However, Susan took this matter to heart. She silently put away the medicinal herbs and planned to prepare medicine for Ken starting tomorrow.

In the blink of an eye, it was the next day.

Melody didn’t wake up until past nine. Probably because of the painkiller, she had a rare good night’s sleep. The fatigue from last night was swept away.

It was probably because she woke up late today that the mother and daughter were not at home. Melody was happy to have a peaceful and quiet day. Rarely, she had breakfast at home.

During breakfast, Ken called.

There were Yolanda’s spies all over the Fox’s place. Melody pretended to be natural and asked, What’s the matter?

The Lawrence family’s matter is almost resolved. The things that he illegally hid will be released for auctions tonight. The proceeds of the auction will be used to donate to poor areas.

Melody’s eyes instantly lit up.

Where should those things be auctioned?

Ken seemed to be deliberately keeping her in suspense. He said calmly, I’ll bring you there tonight.

Melody was about to ask more questions when footsteps suddenly sounded from the stairs.

Melody subconsciously turned around and saw Mabel was dressed extremely exquisitely. Even from afar, she could smell the perfume Mabel used. Mabel looked like a flowery butterfly.

However, it was undeniable that although Mable liked to put on heavy makeup, her face was impeccable. She was so beautiful.

Otherwise, Ulric wouldn’t have taken a fancy to Mabel.

Melody retracted her gaze indifferently. She thought that Mable had gone out. Unexpectedly, Mabel was still at home.

It seemed that she would not be able to finish her breakfast today.

Melody’s appetite instantly disappeared. She put down her fork listlessly and was about to leave when she heard Mabel asking the butler.

Where’s the food box I asked you to buy? It’s all ready.

The butler who had just treated Melody as air, immediately carried a mahogany food box to Mable. Yeah!

Mabel reached out and took it. She seemed to be in a good mood. She quickly walked to Melody and took the initiative to greet Melody, Melody, haven’t you gone to work today?

Melody raised her eyebrows.

Mable said ostentatiously, I heard that Ken likes sweets. I’ve been learning how to bake for the past few days. I made a lot in the morning. There should be a little left. You can take some with you.

In Mabel’s heart, that would be the last thing Melody ate before she died.

Melody was a little surprised to hear this.

Melody thought that Mabel only wanted to be with Ulric. It seems that she was not that stupid. She knew that she had to make two preparations before the heir was finally decided. She was not completely brainless.

But thinking about it, it should be Yolanda who gave Mabel pointers.

Melody looked at the phone call that she had yet to hand up and asked with a playful smile, Are you going to deliver food to Ken?

Mabel put away her smile and raised her chin. You don’t have to worry about that. You should work hard. There might be a surprise waiting for you soon.

The Clark family had probably already begun to kill Melody. Soon, she would not see Melody, this ugly woman again.

Melody pretended not to see the coldness and smugness in Mabel’s eyes. her smile deepened as she said, Thank you for your blessings. I also wish you all the best today.

With that, she quickly walked out the door.

It was not until she got into the taxi that she picked up the phone that was still on and asked with a faint smile, Do you lie sweets?

Melody. Ken sounded angry.

Melody really wanted to go to the auction. She was afraid that Ken would not bring her along if he got angry. She quickly softened her tone and said, You can’t blame me for this! She was the one who wanted to send you food.

Why don’t you stop her? Ken asked.

Do you think I can stop her? Melody answered.

There was silence on the other end of the line for two seconds. Then an indifferent voice sounded. I’m going to get busy.

With that, he hung up on her.

Melody shrugged innocently. How could she stop Mabel?

However, she was very curious. Ken really didn’t like a beauty like Mabel? No man would not like a beauty who had long legs and a slender waist, right?

At this moment her phone rang.

Chapter 250

Melody thought that it was an advertisement. However, it was actually a message from James.

She quickly opened it and saw that James had sent her a piece of news.

The news reported that there was a genius doctor in Silverlake. The doctor was a genius girl. She performed emergency surgery on a car accident patient in an extremely simple environment and saved his life. The patient was Lucas Morgan, son of the president of Halcyon Research Institute, Ander Morgan.

Melody’s eyelid twitched. Why did the news seem to be talking about her?

But the Morgan family had never contacted her to ask for their son’s wallet.

However, when she scrolled down the page, she realized that the main character’s name was Regina.

Okay, then she understood everything.

At this moment, James called. She picked up the call and said, Miss Fox, have you seen the news I sent you? Someone took your credit! The person you saved is Ander’s son. With his special identity, this news has already become a hot topic. Everyone in Silverlake is bragging about the woman’s medical skills! They say that she not only saved the person but also saved the future of scientific research filled in Halcyon.

Before Melody could say anything, James said even more agitatedly, I thought we men were usually thick-skinned. I didn’t expect a woman to be so thick-skinned! You were the one who saved Lucas in Herbathrive, but she actually said that she saved him! Come out and clarify quickly. If you want, I can immediately organize a press conference for you and expose that shameless woman’s true colors!

After James said this, he realized that Melody had not spoken.

He could not help but pause and ask in confusion, Miss Fox, did you hear what I said?

I hear you, Melody said calmly.

James was even more confused. He asked, Aren’t you angry?

What’s there to be angry about? Melody laughed. Since it’s a lie, it will be exposed one day. Why should we waste time and effort to clarify it?

You… What if she’s not exposed? James asked.

Melody said calmly, then do you want to make a bet with me?

On what? James asked.

Bet she’ll come to me soon, Melody answered.

She? Come to you? How could she dare to come to you?

Melody said faintly, then do you want a bet?

So be it! What’s the bet? James asked.

The one who loses will do one thing for the one who wins unconditionally.

James agreed without thinking. Alright! It’s settled then. If she doesn’t come to meet you within ten days, it’s your loss.

Melody raised her eyebrows. Okay.

In that case, I’ll tell you what I want you to do now, James said.

Tell me, Melody said.

James was silent for two seconds before saying, I want you to divorce. Also, you can’t tell him that the divorce is because of our bet.

Melody’s eyes flashed with surprise. She never expected James to bet on this.

But since she had already agreed, there was no turning back.

However, for some reason, she could not understand this emotion herself.

What? Are you going back on your word? James’s voice came from the other end of the phone.

Deal, Melody said.

Let’s see it in ten days! James said.

okay. I’ll hang up first, Melody said.

In front of Melody was Icy Clear Cosmetics. She put away her phone and got out of the car with mixed feelings.

The equipment she needed could be bought at the auctions tonight, so she was still very busy this morning.

Time passed minute by minute. Finally, Melody adjusted the approximate ratio of the medicinal ingredients. When the instrument arrived at night, she would use the instrument to extract the essence of the original liquid for experimentation.

After the experiment, as long as she confirmed that there was no problem with this ratio, she could start to add other materials.

At that moment, her phone rang.

The call was from an unknown number. Puzzled, she answered and heard a gentle voice on the other end. Hello, is this Miss Fox?

Melody was stunned. it’s me. You are?

My name is Ruby. Doctor Herbert from Herbathrive introduced me to you.

Only then did Melody remember that she had asked Colin to help her make an appointment with Ruby.

If she had known that Ruby was in such a hurry to contact her, she would have asked Colin to contact Ruby a week later.

Fortunately, she was almost done with today’s matter, and could take some time.

Thinking of this, Melody went straight to the point. Ms. Wilson, it’s not convenient to talk on the phone. Why don’t you book a place and I’ll rush over?

Alright! Ruby directly gave an address and said, I happen to be eating at this restaurant. Have you eaten? Why don’t we eat together?

The address was near Icy Clear Cosmetics, and Melody replied immediately, Okay.

Five minutes later, Melody arrived at the entrance of a private restaurant.

The waiter put on his standard eight-toothed smile and asked, Miss, do you have an appointment?

I have a friend here. Her last name is Wilson.

Oh, you are Ms. Wilson’s guest. This way, please.

The waiter became even more enthusiastic and quickly brought her to the door of a private room.

What surprised Melody was that not only was Ruby in the private room, but Mason was also there.

What a coincidence. The two of them had never had children. The problem was not with Ruby but with Mason.

Melody quietly knocked on the door and entered.

Ms. Wilson, I’m Melody.

When Ruby saw Melody, a trace of shock flashed across her eyes, but then she recovered her gentle and elegant expression. She smiled and stood up, inviting Melody to sit down.

After Melody sat down, Ruby said gently, I didn’t expect you to be so young. Dr. Herbert told me that your medical skills are above his. I thought you were at least 40 years old.

Melody was about to speak, but Mason, who was beside her, glanced at her with an unfriendly gaze. He looked sideways at Ruby and said, Darling, no wonder we haven’t had any children. It turns out that you always find these unreliable liars to check on you. I told you long ago that we have to find a big hospital to find a doctor. Look at who you’ve found.

Ruby glared at Mason. Don’t talk nonsense. The person who introduced Miss Fox is Dr. Colin Herbert. He owns Herbathrive, the most famous traditional medicine clinic in Silverlake.

Mason still had a look of distrust.

Who knows, if that Colin took some money that he shouldn’t have? If her medical skills are so superb, why didn’t she street the acne on her face? Isn’t traditional medicine the best at conditioning one’s body? Her face is enough to prove that she can’t do anything.

As Mason spoke, he stood up and said, Little girl, if you don’t want us to call the police and arrest you as fraud, leave immediately! Don’t appear in front of my wife again!

Ruby could not bear it, but Mason seemed to be right.

Maybe Melody was really a liar.

If that was the case, she would have to ask Colin about it.

She trusted Colin so much, but he actually found a liar to fool her!

At this moment, Ruby was also a little angry.

Miss Fox, please leave. I don’t want to embarrass you.

Prev | Next 

Chapter 241

Have you seen Pamela? Yolanda lowered her voice and thought for a moment. Then, she brought Mabel upstairs and started asking her questions. What did Pamela say?

Mabel smiled proudly and said, Pamela is very stupid. I shed tears and cried a few times before her heart softened. She said she got detained because of Melody alone. It has nothing to do with our family. She will tell her father and tell us not to worry.

Yolanda immediately heaved a sigh of relief and patted Mabel’s shoulder approvingly. You’ve done very well. When our family gets to cooperate with the Swanson Universal Entertainment, our family’s status will rise to another level. We’ll live a good life! As for Melody, the Clark family will think of a way to deal with her, so don’t have any disputes with her for the next few days. Do you understand? I know. At this juncture, I won’t have any conflict with her. Mable agreed.

Yolanda felt completely relieved after receiving Mabel’s assurance.

At the mention of Ulric, Mabel’s eyes darkened slightly. She lowered her eyes and said sadly. I called Ulric. I wanted to invite him for dinner, but he said he had something on that day and rejected me.

At this, Mable could not help but nervously pull Yolanda’s sleeve and ask, Mom, will Ulric not like me? Why did he reject my invitation if he had feelings for me?

Yolanda smiled and said, Silly girl, for a person like Ulric, love is not the most important thing. Now, that he said he had something important to do, it must be the case. He wouldn’t lie to you. How about this? Stop taking the initiative to look for him, Before the position of the Swanson family’s successor is a done deal, let him be busy first. We can also wait and see. If the successor is not Ulric, it’s not that we can’t consider Ken.

Ken? Mabel said with mixed feelings, But Ken can even cripple his own brother’s legs. He’s such a terrifying person. I don’t dare approach him…

Yolanda shook her head…

What are you afraid of? In the entire Silverlake, you can’t find a rich family that hasn’t done anything dirty. What Ken did was only discovered. Those that you can’t see are even more terrifying. It’s also because I didn’t consider carefully and decided that Ken can’t inherit the Swanson family. But now, it’s still difficult to determine who will inherit the Swanson group at last. So think of a way to hold the hearts of both people, but don’t let them discover each other. When we confirm who the heir is, you can focus on that one. Do you understand?

Mabel nodded obediently, but Ken’s appearance subconsciously appeared in her mind. Ken’s looks are as impeccable as Ulric’s. However, compared to Ulric, Ken seems to have an additional cold masculinity. It will prove my charm if I can make such a cold and terrifying person like Ken treat me gently. This feeling doesn’t seem bad… Mabel’s face couldn’t help but blush as she thought.

She pushed Yolanda out shyly and said coquettishly, Mom, I’m going to rest…

When Yolanda saw Mabel’s expression, she knew Mabel had a good impression of Ken. She couldn’t help but smile, thinking, My daughter is indeed smart.

Alright, alright. Have a good rest. I have to contact the maid planted at your grandmother’s place, said Yolanda.

Contact her for what? Isn’t Grandma dying soon? Mabel asked.

At the mention of this, Yolanda’s expression turned dark.

She said- the medicine I bought last time was fake. That stall owner cheated me of my money. Mabel suddenly understood. No wonder Grandma could still drag her poisoned body out during Melody’s incidents. That explains it!

Yes, I’ve changed it to a more poisonous drug for her. In less than a month, we’ll be able to get the good news of her death, Yolanda said.

Mabel was overjoyed. She hurriedly urged, Then go quickly! I really can’t stand that old woman anymore.

Shhh! Yolanda made a shushing gesture and warned with a frown, Be careful in case someone’s listening in the next room. Just think about these words in your heart and don’t say them out loud. Melody is very cunning. You can’t let her find out.

Mabel quickly lowered her voice and nodded. Got it!

At the same time, in the backyard.

Maria was already asleep at this time.

Melody quietly came to Maria’s bed to check her pulse. Hattie asked nervously with her eyes.

Melody glanced at the door and gestured for her to walk to the door to speak.

Hattie quickly followed her out and closed the door for Maria.

After doing this, she asked anxiously, Miss Melody, what happened to Mrs. Maria?

Melody smiled and said, her condition had already recovered, and her recovery speed was faster than I imagined. After taking the medicine for another half a month, when her foundation is better, I will help her perform acupuncture and force out the last bit of poison.

Confused, Hattie asked. Why didn’t you perform acupuncture first?

That’s because acupuncture is a very exhausting thing for traditional doctors. My grandma’s body is weak, ad she had other illnesses before. If we start acupuncture immediately, I’m afraid her body won’t be able to withstand it. Melody explained.

I see. Hattie nodded in understanding.

At this moment, the phone in Melody’s pocket vibrated.

The only vibrating phone she had was the one that belonged to the maid Yolanda had planted here. Without a doubt, Yolanda had sent her a message.

Melody quickly opened her phone and saw a message from Yolanda. [At two in the morning, I’ll put the new medicine in the same place. Remember to get it and get rid of the previous medicine. Don’t leave any traces.]

Melody pursed her lips coldly. After Grandma recovered, Yolanda couldn’t sit still anymore and couldn’t wait to change the medicine.

Hattie gritted her teeth in hatred. She’s simply vicious! Mrs. Maria has never mistreated her. I can’t believe she did such a vicious thing!

At this point, Hattie could not help but say regretfully, If Mrs. Wilona were still alive, such a thing would never have happened.

The “Mrs. Wilona” Hattie referred to was Melody’s biological mother.

When Melody heard this, a hint of sadness and hatred flashed past her eyes. If it weren’t for Yolanda, I wouldn’t have been separated from my mother since I was born and sent to the countryside at such a young age. It’s all Yolanda’s fault. I’ve always remembered this grudge.

Hattie observed Melody’s expression and immediately realized she had mentioned something she shouldn’t have. She quickly apologized, I’m sorry Miss Melody. I didn’t mean to mention it…

It’s okay. Melody waved her hand and quickly replied to the message: [Got it.] Then, she told Hattie, I’m going to my room to rest.

Hattie didn’t dare to say anything else and only nodded.

Melody returned to her room and remembered the email James had sent her. She quickly turned on her computer to check her email.

She had to be on guard against Troy. She had to find out what the company Troy went to today was for.

Chapter 242

The first thing she saw when she opened the email was the words St. Martin’s High-end Costume Design Training College.

At first, Melody thought that James had sent the wrong email. After patiently reading it, she realized that the fashion design company Troy went to was the partner of this academy.

Designers who graduated from St. Martin’s College had to come to this college for an internship for a month. Only by passing the internship could they obtain the designer certificate St. Martin’s College issued.

St. Martin’s College’s influence in Silverlake was not small. Many designers in the fashion design industry studied at this college.

Both the Justalion Group and the Clark Group had designers who graduated there.

But what was Troy doing here? Was he only trying to recruit people from this company? Melody wondered.

However, if it was just recruitment, Troy’s smile could not be so confident, as if he had something on me.

Melody also searched for St. Martin’s College on the Internet and was surprised to find that Pamela and Mabel were both graduates of St. Martin’s College.

What’s the connection? Melody thought for a moment but could not find an answer now.

She looked at the time. There were still nearly three hours before midnight. She had not slept well last night, so she lay down to catch up on her sleep.

Not long after, the alarm clock rang.

Melody was a light sleeper. She opened her eyes immediately, put on her clothes, and went out.

Going out now would attract attention, so Melody directly climbed over the wall from the backyard.

She had taken the time to work out recently, and her stamina improved. Although she was weaker than in her previous life, climbing a wall of six feet was a piece of cake for her.

With little effort, she flipped over and took a taxi to the customs warehouse wearing a mask.

On the way, she deliberately did not contact the person on the form first. Instead, she quietly walked around the customs warehouse. After confirming that there was no danger, she contacted the person.

Hello? The hoarse voice of a middle-aged man came from the other end. It was obvious that the other party was an old smoker.

It’s me. The guy who posted the bounty on the black market, Melody said.

Oh… The other party dragged out his words and said, I’m at a nearby hotel. You can wait for me at the entrance of the warehouse. The person on duty is my man. Tell him you’re looking for me, and he’ll bring you in. Oh right, my last name is Lawrence. Just tell him so, and I’ll be right there.

After that, a woman’s charming voice came from the other end. Ben, who’s looking for you in the middle of the night?

Business… The person on the other end of the line hung up.

Melody heard the woman’s words.

She couldn’t help but ponder, his last name is Lawrence. And Ben…

A name immediately appeared in her mind, Benny Lawrence!

The device I want to buy is from Benny, the brother of Bobby whom I had offended! At this moment, Melody did not know if she should be happy or worried.

However, she could not successfully develop a new product in seven days if she didn’t have the equipment.

After thinking about it, Melody gritted her teeth and walked toward the warehouse resolutely.

I can only pray that Benny does not know I’m the one who causes Bobby’s imprisonment. With this thought in mind, she had already arrived at the warehouse’s entrance.

There were two people in white uniforms guarding the door. When they saw her coming, they immediately went forward and warned- the Customs warehouse. No one is allowed to approach.

Melody smiled and said, I’m Lawrence’s guest.

When the two of them heard this, they immediately smiled. So you’re Ben’s guest. Please come in. I’ll take you to the reception room inside.

Melody nodded and silently followed one of them into the warehouse.

There were guards everywhere in the warehouse, but everyone was very sloppy. When they saw her coming, they didn’t even loop up and continued to play with their phones.

Miss this way, please. The other party pointed to a frosted door and introduced, this is the reception room. Wait for Ben here. He should be here soon.

Okay. Melody nodded and entered the living room.

Not long after Melody sat down, she heard a voice coming from outside, Ben, you’re here? The guests are already here.

Yeah. The voice on the phone said.

The next second, a middle-aged man with a big belly entered the room.

Melody recognized this person at a glance. It was indeed Benny. He looked 70% to 80% similar to Bobby. Even the skin on their faces was the same. They had dense pimples.

As a doctor, she knew at a glance that this was acne caused by long-term indulgence, coupled with lack of sleep, drinking, and smoking.

Hello, Mr. Lawrence. Melody stood up and greeted him without batting an eyelid. I’m here to buy the instrument I want.

Benny sat on the sofa and gestured for his subordinates to make coffee for her before getting down to business. I do have the instrument here, but the price… I wonder how much you can accept.

Melody said calmly, name your price, the market price of this instrument is about 80 to 100 thousand dollars… How about this! Benny flicked his cigarette ash and said, this is our first time doing business, so let’s treat it as making friends. Just 80 thousand dollars will do!

Melody’s expression did not change, but she instantly understood.

The market price of this instrument is about 240 thousand dollars, but he is willing to sell it to me at 80 thousand dollars. He must know nothing about it, or it’s something he obtained illegally and was in a hurry to sell. But whatever the reason is, it’s a good thing for me. Melody pretended to be grateful and stood up. Thank you, Mr. Lawrence.

You’re welcome. Someone, bring over the instrument that this lady wants, Benny said.

The instrument arrived very quickly. They did not even open the packaging. Melody paid and was about to leave with the instrument when she suddenly remembered that the herbs she needed were also detained there. She said: since Mr. Lawrence is so straightforward, I want to do another business with you.

Benny was greedy. Hearing this, his smile deepened. Sure, what else do you need? I’ll sell them to you as long as I have them here! And the price will be low.

It’s not an instrument. Melody paused and said, I need a herb. I was going to buy it, but I heard the sale of this herb is not allowed in the country. It got detained.

Benny recalled that he had detained a batch of herbs a few days ago and asked; what herbs do you need?

Uvograss, Melody reported the name of the herb.

Benny glanced over and his subordinate immediately said, I’ll look for it now.

Benny raised the cup in his hand. Please have some coffee. I’ll get it for you soon.

Melody nodded and took a symbolic sip of coffee. She did not swallow it and smiled. Good coffee!

Benny didn’t seem to know about my relationship with Bobby, but I must be wary of others. Melody thought.

Benny said, Miss, you have good taste!

I only make this coffee when guests come. It’s made of fine coffee beans.

Melody was about to speak when someone came to report. Ben, someone called Barclay Lawrence said he wanted to buy something from you. Should we let him in?

Let him in! He’s my nephew-in-law! Said Benny.

Melody’s eyelid twitched. Barclay is Benny’s nephew-in-law! That guy wanted to violate me in the Swanson family’s residence, but I beat him up and sent him to the hospital. Now that he is here, won’t my identity be exposed?

Melody’s heartbeat sped up uncontrollably. A bad feeling arose in her heart.

Chapter 243

This was Benny’s territory. When she entered, she checked the number of people guarding this place.

There are about 20 of them in total. If I fight head-on, it is not impossible. However, the bad thing is that there is only one entrance here. Moreover, the warehouse door is thick. They have many people guarding outside. If they lock the door from the outside, it’ll be difficult for me to escape. In just two seconds, Melody gave up this opportunity to buy herbs.

She took a deep breath and forced herself to stand up calmly. Mr. Lawrence, I don’t have enough money to pay for the herbs today, and I’m not in a hurry to use them. How about this? I’ll look for you in a week?

Is that so? Benny thought for a moment and said, This is fine too. When you’ve gathered enough money, just come and contact me. I’ll keep the herbs for you.

Thank you, Mr. Lawrence. After thanking him, Melody didn’t stay and walked out under the lead of Benny’s subordinates.

At this moment, Barclay walked toward her.

Melody quickly lowered her head and tried not to attract Barclay’s attention.

Fortunately, she wore a mask today to avoid exposing her identity to the black market. Barclay only looked up at her before looking away.

Soon, the two of them brushed past each other. Just as Melody heaved a sigh of relief, Barclay’s voice suddenly came from behind. Wait.

Melody stopped in her tracks and her back stiffened. Barclay asked in confusion, Hey, have I seen you somewhere before?

Melody’s heart skipped a beat.

The person leading the way, said, are you mistaken? This is a customer from the black market. When he heard the words “black market”, Barclay put away his doubts. That country girl can’t get into the black market. I must be overthinking.

The person leading the way smiled and made a “please” gesture at Melody. “Miss, this way, please. Melody nodded and followed the person out.

However, she could feel Barclay’s gaze on her back.

Melody tried her best to make her steps look normal, and the gaze that was staring at her finally moved away.

Sensing this, Melody quickened her pace. Two minutes later, she finally walked out of the customs warehouse. She touched her back and realized that the clothes were wet.

The guide asked politely, It’s not easy to hail a taxi at night. Do you need me to send someone to send you back?

Melody found an excuse to refuse. Thank you, but there’s no need to send me off. I drove here myself. My car is parked not far away.

The man replied, Alright, take care. Also, I hope you won’t mention what happened tonight to a third person.

Of course, Melody nodded slightly and turned to leave. However, at this moment, Benny’s voice suddenly sounded. Miss! You missed an accessory.

Melody stopped in her tracks and quickly turned around.

However, in the next moment, her head was suddenly hit by something. Her vision instantly became blurry until there was only darkness left. With a bang, she fell heavily to the ground.

Barclay, following behind Benny, took a few steps forward and pulled off the mask on Melody’s face.

Barclay’s eyes lit up when he saw the familiar face.

He knew that he was not mistaken! Fortunately, he had reported it to Benny in time, so this girl did not have the time to slip away.

After the surprise, he quickly pointed at Melody and said to Benny, Benny, it’s this bitch! She’s the one who caused me to be beaten up and hospitalized. It’s also because of her that Bobby’s scandal broke out! Bobby would be in jail now if it weren’t for his clean work and insufficient evidence! Some time ago, Fairlee even helped me take revenge. Unfortunately, this girl is too good at fakes. Fairlee didn’t get any benefits.

Benny stared at Melody coldly. His expression was no longer as polite as before. A cold glint flashed across his eyes as he said disdainfully, Fairlee is just a paper tiger. What can he help you with? I’m the one who has to do this.

Of course, of course! Who doesn’t know your methods? Said Barcaly.

Benny laughed and stared at Melody. This damn girl is so bold. I can’t believe she dares to come knocking on our door.

That’s right. She’s just a county bumpkin. She doesn’t have a brain at all! She doesn’t know that you’re my uncle. After scolding, Barclay asked, Can you hand her to me? I have to beat her up to vent my anger!

Benny shook his head. With a disappointed look, he said, That’s why I said your mother protected you too well. How can a beating vent your anger? If you want revenge, use the most ruthless methods.

You mean… Barclay had an evil smile on his face.

Benny curled his lips and said, Bobby has been locked up at home by your grandma for the past few days to reflect on himself. He must have been holding it in. Go and fetch Bobby out. I’ll send this girl to a nearby hotel. I’ll send you the address later.

Barclay immediately understood what Benny meant. His eyes flickered with excitement.

I’m on it! Barclay was about to leave when Benny pulled him back. Kid, you haven’t told me what you’re here for.

Barclay slapped his head and said, I almost forgot about the important matter. Grandma’s 70th birthday is tomorrow. My mother asked me to come and inform you. I should have come during the day but got delayed by something at the last minute, so I came now. But now it seems that this is all arranged by God.

Benny laughed again and said, Got it. Go and do it. Your grandmother doesn’t know how to be flexible. Don’t let her find out, lest it affects her mood.

Alright! Barclay responded and walked toward the parking lot.

When he passed Melody, Barclay felt that he had not yet vented his anger. He raised his leg and kicked Melody’s thigh ruthlessly.

Bitch! Who asked you to set me up? It’s only a matter of time before you receive your punishment. Today is the day you repay your debt. Barclay kicked once and raised his leg to kick a second time.

Just as his second kick was about to land on Melody’s thigh, a slender hand suddenly grabbed his ankle, making him unable to move.

Barclay was shocked and quickly looked at Melody’s face.

Melody, who was originally motionless and unconscious, suddenly opened his eyes.

Her eyes were terrifyingly dark, but they were frighteningly bright. It was as if she had thousands of sharp blades in her eyes, shooting straight at Barclay.

Barclay had always been pampered and had never seen such a gaze. Goosebumps instantly appeared all over his body. He was so frightened that he shouted, Benny, save me!

The next moment, Melody raised her hand and pulled Barclay’s leg toward her. Barclay immediately lost his balance and fell to the ground. Melody used Barclay’s leg to stand up.

Ouch! Barclay fell to the ground and screamed in pain.

Meldoy directly stepped on Barclay’s chest. She looked coldly at Benny who had just reacted and warned in a low voice, I’m stepping on his heart. My foot can push down, and I can’t control the force. Tell your people to stay 330 feet away from me, otherwise…

Chapter 244

Melody didn’t finish her sentence, but everyone understood her warning perfectly.

Barclay was so scared that he immediately wet his pants. He shouted, Uncle, save me! This woman is a devil. She really will kill me.

Seeing Barclay’s light-colored pants turn dark, Benny frowned and scolded, useless!

Melody raised her chin slightly. Mr. Benny, didn’t you understand what I said? Or do you not care about your dear nephew’s life?

Uncle! Barclay shouted hoarsely.

Benny gritted his teeth and said furiously, Step back!

If Barclay weren’t his only nephew and the Lawrence family only had one male descendant in this generation, he wouldn’t bother with this useless waste of life!

The group of people who had been eyeing Melody warily retreated upon Benny’s command. They stopped only when they were nearly 330 feet away from Melody.

Can you let him go now? Benny shouted!

Melody bent down and yanked Barclay up from the ground. As she moved, a foul smell hit her.

Melody wrinkled her nose and held her breath. She kicked Barclay in the back without warning. Caught off guard, Barclay fell on the ground, landing awkwardly.

Without pausing, Melody turned and ran towards the road. She had no car or driver’s license, so running was her only option.

Go after her! Benny’s shout came from behind. Melody immediately picked up her pace, sprinting with all her might towards the highway. There were many cars on the road. If she could flag down one, she might escape this crisis.

Melody ran swiftly, quickly distancing herself from the pursuing group. However, several cars ignored her frantic waves and passed her by.

Let’s see where you can run! Bitch! Benny caught up.

Melody prepared to run again but soon heard the sound of a motorcycle engine. They were using motorcycles to chase after her.

She couldn’t outrun a motorcycle. Melody’s heart tightened, but all she could do was keep pushing forward.

Benny didn’t seem to be in a hurry to catch her. He deliberately toyed with her, riding the motorcycle behind her, neither too close nor too far.

After running for a long time, Melody’s stamina began to falter. Her speed noticeably slowed down. Keep running! Let’s see how long you can keep this up!

As he spoke, the sound of the engine grew louder. Benny was accelerating.

Melody didn’t look back, but she could feel Benny charging straight towards her. He was going to ram her. Melody clenched her teeth and pushed herself to run faster. But the reflection of the streetlights told her that Benny was less than 3 feet away.

Just then, an MPV with its headlights flashing came speeding towards her. The headlights dazzled Melody. But in the next instant, she realized something was wrong. This car…

Narrowing her eyes, Melody spotted a gentle slope by the roadside not far ahead. Without hesitation, she protected her head with both hands and rolled down the slope.

The next sound she heard was a series of collisions and screeching brakes on the road, followed by Benny’s cry of pain.

Melody rubbed her sore knee and looked towards the road.

She saw Benny had been knocked back over six feet by the MPV and was on the ground, clutching his head in pain. It seemed he wasn’t in mortal danger, judging by how he was shouting.

Melody attempted to push herself up with one hand. But before she could stand, the door of the MPV opened, and someone quickly got out.

Due to the headlights, Melody could only see a tall figure walking towards her against the light. Though she couldn’t see his face clearly, Melody was certain of who it was. Are you okay? Can you get up? The man approached her, extending his large hand.

Melody lifted her gaze and met Ken’s eyes. He frowned, looking very worried about her.

In an instant, her tense nerves relaxed, yet her heart raced faster than before.

I’m fine. Melody swallowed and hesitated for a moment before taking Ken’s hand. His palm was cool and slightly sweaty.

Once she was fully on her feet, Melody withdrew her hand as if she’d been shocked, then she looked away, asking, How did you know I was here?

Wilmot! Ken only mentioned Wilmot’s name, and Melody understood everything.

Wilmot had been worried about her, so he must have informed Ken about her actions tonight. She had already died once. She considered herself unafraid of death, but if Ken hadn’t come, she would have been reluctant to meet her end at the hands of someone as insignificant as Benny.

She said, Thank you.

Are you thanking me now? Ken frowned, circling her once to confirm that she only had minor injuries on her knees. Then he asked in a low voice, What happened? Weren’t you just supposed to buy something?

Melody briefly recounted the incident int he simplest terms. Then she said, I didn’t expect Barclay to show up.

Ken took a deep breath, his voice commanding as he said, from now on, you are not allowed to do anything dangerous alone.

I… Before she could finish her sentence, several MPVs pulled up behind Ken.

James, who was leading them, spotted the two and hurriedly asked, Mr. Swanson’s! Miss Fox! Are you both okay?

We’re fine. Ken glanced sideways, gesturing for James to check on Benny’s condition.

James acknowledged and went over to Benny with a few others.

Melody took a step forward, but Ken grabbed her wrist firmly.

Did you hear what I said? His tone was stern.

Melody hesitated for a moment, remembering Ken’s words about not allowing her to do anything dangerous alone. She nodded slowly. I’ll do my best.

Your best? Ken’s expression darkened further. Melody sighed and lowered her head. I understand. In the future, if I sense any danger, I’ll inform you or have James accompany me. Ken’s expression softened slightly at this assurance. Then, Melody walked towards the road.

Help me… Meanwhile, Benny reached out to James, feeling like he was about to die from pain. James arrived late and didn’t know what happened earlier. But from the scene, he could tell that this member of the Lawrence family had intended harm toward Melody.

Though the Lawrence family had their distinctions, the Swanson family usually treated them politely. However, if conflicts arose, they would disregard the Lawrence family.

James stepped directly onto Benny’s wrist, squatting down while playfully saying, Safety comes first when we’re on the road, but you don’t even wear a helmet when riding a bike.

Benny screamed like a pig being slaughtered. Once the pain eased somewhat, he shouted angrily, Bastard! Do you know who I am? How dare you step on me! Are you looking to die?

Before he could finish his sentence, a low, cold voice cut in. Do you know who am I?

Chapter 245

The voice carried a chilling hostility that made Benny’s heart race.

He turned toward the direction of the voice. In the illumination of the lights, he could vaguely make out half of a face. The eyes exuded a cold and menacing aura that was impossible to ignore.

In an instant, Benny recognized the person approaching. It was Ken!

He was infamous for his ruthlessness, known for killing without hesitation, even incapacitating his own brother’s legs. Fear swept from Benny’s feet to his head and spread throughout his entire body.

Ken advanced a few steps, looking down at Benny as if he were nothing more than a pitiful ant beneath his gaze. Cold sweat instantly covered Benny’s forehead.

Ke..Ke.. Ken… Benny stuttered, unable to even say Ken’s full name. He was overwhelmed by the terrifying presence.

Ken’s expression remained indifferent as he spoke. Benny, you and your brother are cut from the same cloth. You dare harm my people?

Your people? Benny widened his eyes in disbelief, glancing towards Melody at Ken’s side. He asked in disbelief, She’s… one of yours?

Then, Benny suddenly recalled that Bobby had fallen victim to Melody, with the backing of someone from the Swanson family. He never imagined that the person would be Ken himself.

He thought, Why would Ken have any connection with this country bumpkin? Isn’t she just a worthless nobody from the countryside?

In just a few seconds, Benny’s mind raced through countless questions and doubts. But right now, escaping was his utmost priority.

Benny immediately apologized with a sheepish smile. Mr. Swanson, I’m sorry! I have no idea she is one of your people… This is just a big misunderstanding! Miss Fox, I truly apologize. Please forgive me for my rudeness.

Melody’s expression remained cold as she said, Mr. Lawrence, I didn’t come here to cause trouble for you. We had a fair deal, but how did you treat me?

Benny shivered as he said regretfully, You’re right! It’s all my fault! I shouldn’t have been influenced by my foolish nephew. Please forgive me this once, considering the damage I’ve already endured. If you’re still unsatisfied, I can call my nephew over and let you give him a good beating!

Melody sneered slightly. Benny was even less capable than Fairlee. At least Fairlee wouldn’t have pushed Barclay out at this moment.

She said expressionlessly, What I want…

Benny immediately said, For Free! I’ll give it to you for free! I’ll pay you ten times the cost of the equipment, and I’ll give you all the herbs you need. How about that?

Melody hesitated. The Lawrence family had a strong foundation. If things got out of hand, it might affect Ken.

Just as she hesitated, several cars approached from the direction of the warehouse. It was Barclay leading Benny’s men.

Melody was facing the hot glare of the car headlights. Barclay couldn’t see who was standing beside Melody.

All he saw was Benny lying in a pool of blood on the ground. His adrenaline surged instantly, Anger bubbling up and turning into a string of angry words.

You dare touch my uncle. You’re dead! I’ll disfigure your face, you bitch! Barclay swung the iron rod in his hand and charged towards Melody.

Barclay! Stop right there! Benny shouted urgently.

But Barclay didn’t care what Benny said. Instead of stopping, he sped up, his eyes burning red, determined to knock out Melody.

However, before he could take more than a few steps, James stepped forward and delivered a flying kick.

Barclay was sent flying more than six feet. The iron rod slipped from his hand and hit the ground.

He screamed at James in fury, trying to figure out who had dared to kick him. But when Barclay recognized James standing next to Ken, it felt like a hand had suddenly covered his throat. Leaving him unable to utter a word. He screamed in his mind in fear, It’s Ken Swanson.

Ken didn’t even spare a glance at Barclay. He coldly ordered. Arrest them all. Contact Ethan Cox at the prosecutor’s office.

At the mention of “Ethan Cox” from the prosecutor’s office, Benny nearly lost his soul from fright.

Ignoring his injuries, he crawled to Ken, clutching his legs and begging Mr. Swanson, it’s all Barclay’s fault! Please spare me! If Ethan gets hold of me, the entire Lawrence family is finished!

Ken frowned, Sensing the situation, James stepped forward to remove Benny from Ken.

Let’s go, Ken said, casting a glance at Melody before walking toward his car. Melody hurried after him. My things…

Ken replied, They’re illegal. I’ll find another way to get them back for you tomorrow.

Melody sighed with relief and followed Ken into the car. They drove off as James would handle the aftermath.

Just take me back to the Fox family’s home, Melody requested.

Okay, Ken replied curtly, no further words exchanged.

Inside the car, an eerie silence prevailed. Melody wanted to say something to ease the tension. After two seconds of contemplation, she said, About Miss Murphy’s illness, I could…

But Ken interrupted. Deal with your wounds first when we get back. Don’t neglect your condition. He clearly didn’t want Janet mentioned at this time. Okay, Melody responded. She stole glances at Ken’s face, sensing his mood was particularly bad right now.

She pondered, Why? Is it because he hadn’t slept well and was dragged into this mess, ruining his night’s rest?

As the car neared the Fox family’s neighborhood, Melody couldn’t resist asking, When you were in the hospital, you mentioned something important to discuss with me. What was it?

Ken pressed the brake and looked at her. We’ll talk about it properly after you finish what you’re busy with.

Melody’s eyes darted around, realizing whatever he wanted to discuss was indeed very important.

Got it. She looked away, opened the car door, and said. Thank you for tonight. I’ll head back now.

Ken didn’t reply. Just as Melody prepared to get out, he suddenly said, Need help?

Huh? She turned around in confusion.

Ken’s eyes fixed on her intensely. About Wilmot’s matter. If your final bet doesn’t succeed, I can help. Dealing with Jessica requires a top-notch legal team from the Swanson group. With our lawyers, she won’t cause any trouble, and your bet will naturally be void.

No need… Melody paused, then, reminded him, Mr. Ramon is coming back soon, right?

Ken replied, two days from now.

Melody said- You must be busy lately. Don’t worry about me. Focus on your own matters. As for the bet with Silk Beauty Cosmetics, I’m confident I can win since I made the bet.

Ken frowned deeply, wanting to say that developing a new product within a week is impossible, but he decided not to.

He urged coldly, Suit yourself! Get out of the car!

Prev | Next 

Chapter 236

Don’t talk too much first. The remaining poison in your body hasn’t been completely removed. Your body is weak, so you can’t tire yourself out too much. Melody quickly pressed down on Wilmot’s shoulder and gestured for him to lie down.

When Wilmot did as he was told, she began talking about the Tojafrass Aroma under Wilmot’s questioning gaze.

When Wilmot heard that it was his brother who poisoned him, he was so angry that he scolded him, Leo is so simply a bastard! He coughed before he continued before our Dad died, he told me that Leo had evil intentions, so he handed Icy Clear Cosmetics to me, and in the past few years, he has indeed behaved himself. I was even considering if I should hand Icy Clear Cosmetics to him. That way, I could spend more time with Shane. But I didn’t expect him to do such a disappointing thing!

Melody sighed and said, It should be Silk Beauty Cosmetic’s interference that made him feel it was the best opportunity. His nature was seduced.

Wilmot closed his eyes, his expression filled with anger and disappointment.

Melody patted the back of Wilmot’s hand and comforted him. People are selfish. It’s just that they care about different things. You care about kinship, but he cares about benefits.

Wilmot clenched his fits. When my body recovers, I will tear off his disguise!

Melody nodded. You need to recover quickly, whether it’s for yourself or Icy Clear Cosmetics. Although I can handle the research and development of the new product alone, if he refuses to use my new product to compete on the day of the competition, we might lose the bet, so you have to recuperate. Before the competition, you should continue pretending to be sick to let Leo’s guard down.

Wilmot nodded without thinking. Alright, we’ll do as you say. After that, he coughed violently again.

Melody poured a glass of water for Wilmot and could not help but ask about Tojafrass Aroma. A friend of mine developed this poison Leo poisoned you with. However, he’s a very kind person. He worried someone would use it to do bad things, so he burned all the finished products and formulas long ago. There shouldn’t be any left in the world. I’m worried that this matter will affect that friend of mine, so I want to ask you, has Leo come into contact with anyone with medical or poison skills?

Wilmot thought about it seriously and shook his head in confusion. I’ve never heard of him coming into contact with anyone skilled in medicine or poison. Most people he usually comes into contact with are fair-weather friends.

Melody nodded and was about to say, it’s alright, I’ll investigate it myself when Wilmot suddenly looked up and said, I remember now. About a month ago, he often went to Insterimond and was very close to a woman from the Taylor family in Insterimond. The Taylor family in Insterimond seemed to have made their fortune by selling herbs. It’s just that they’re starting to develop in various industries now. Do you think this poison came from that woman of the Taylor family?

The Taylor family in Insterimond… Melody muttered as she thought of how Colin had mentioned the Taylor family. The Taylor family had the herbs she needed. She couldn’t help but think, it seems I have to hurry up and get close to Mason’s wife, Ruby.

Melody composed herself and asked, Do you know anything about that woman? It’s fine if you only know her name.

Wilmot shook his head. Leo is a person who often hangs out with different women. He has changed his girlfriends one after another and has yet to get married. I’m too lazy to care about who he’s dating now. So… I’m sorry, I don’t know her name. However, I’ll think of a way to find out. Leo is a flamboyant person. It shouldn’t be difficult to find out about that woman.

Alright, I’ll leave this matter to you. But before that, the most important thing for you is to recuperate. After Melody finished speaking, James knocked on the door and entered with a bag of traditional medicine that one could take directly.

Miss Fox, the medicine is ready. As he spoke, he could not help but complain, is your prescription too strange? The people from the traditional medicine department refused to make the medicine for me. It was only after I pressured them that they did it.

Tojafrass Aroma has disappeared for a long time. Of course, the antidote is not common. It’s very normal. Melody said, taking the medicine and watching Wilmot drink it before speaking again. You need to take this medicine for seven consecutive days to remove all the poison in your body. Calculating the time, the day you recover is coincidentally the day Silk Beauty Cosmetics competes. It’s just in time.

Wilmot nodded and was about to speak when he started coughing violently again.

I’m a little dizzy… he said.

It’s normal. This is s sign that the poison has yet to be cleared. Melody raised her wrist and looked at the time. I can’t let Leo get suspicious. I have to rush back as soon as possible. I’ll get James to help you deceive the world, so you don’t have to worry about anything. Rest well.

Okay! Wilmot looked at her with a complicated expression and said, I’m sorry Melody. I seem to have caused you a lot of trouble.

Melody shook her head. I was the one who suggested the bet in the first place. This is what I should do. Besides, this matter involves my friend…

Wilmot could not help but ask curiously, who is that friend of yours?

Melody opened her mouth and said vaguely, it’s someone who gave me a second life.

Wilmot knew she was unwilling to say more, so he understood and did not continue asking. He only said, then go quickly. I will also investigate the identity of that woman from the Taylor family as soon as possible.

Okay! Melody did not stay any longer, she called James to the door and instructed him a few things before she left for the building of Icy Clear Cosmetics.

At the same time, in the emergency room.

Accompanied by Ken, Janet finally completed a series of full-body examinations.

This checkup was very detailed. From head to toe all the internal organs in her body, they checked almost everything for her.

The results of the checkup came out very quickly.

Ken came to the doctor’s office curiously, Why did you ask me to come here alone? Is she …sick?

Well…the doctor hesitated. It’s not a serious disease, but it’s fatal to a woman.

Just tell me, Ken said.

The doctor nodded and pushed the report to Ken. He said the good news first, according to Miss Murphy’s examination report, although some of the values are not up to standard, these are all common illnesses of modern people. It doesn’t matter much.

Please continue. Ken looked serious.

The doctor pointed at one of the reports and said. Look here, here, and here! The values of this place are seriously high, but this value is more than ten times lower than ordinary people.

Ken could not understand the academic terms on it. He asked directly, what does that mean?

It means Miss Murphy probably won’t have children after that, said the doctor.

Ken’s eyelids twitched. He asked, is it because of the problem this time? She drank a lot last night…

The doctor shook his head. No, the discomfort this time is just a small problem. Logically speaking, she should be able to recover in a day or two. The reason why she can’t have children is because of her irregular schedule in the past few years and the mental pressure.

In the past few years? Ken fell into deep thought. Janet has been running around for Ximber Tech for the past few years. It is common for her to have irregular schedules. So, I was the one who harmed her?

Chapter 237

The doctor sized up Ken’s expression. When he saw Ken’s dark expression, the corners of his lips curled up imperceptibly.

Then, he said regretfully. Moreover, the patient’s emotions are important. As long as she controls her emotions and adjusts her schedule, there’s still a chance of recovery in the future.

Upon hearing that there was a change of recovery, Ken’s dark expression finally eased a little.

Also, the doctor reminded him, that we can’t let the patient know about this for the time being. Because of the alcohol, she has gastrointestinal problems. At the very least, we should wait for the patient’s health to improve before telling this news.

Ken nodded. I understand.

Alright, that’s all for now. Miss Murphy doesn’t need to be hospitalized for the time being. After the drip, you can go to the pharmacy to get the medicine. take the medicine on time and she’ll be fine soon. Oh right, her stomach isn’t good. In the future, she has to stop alcohol and eat healthily.

Okay, Ken replied and got up to leave.

The doctor watched Ken leave before taking out his phone and making a call.

When the call connected, the doctor smiled and said, Miss Murphy, I’ve already done what you instructed. As for what you promised me…

Don’t worry. On the other end, Janet said faintly, In order not to arouse suspicion, I’ll use my family’s connection to transfer you to Central Hospital in Insterimond in a month.

Thank you, Miss Murphy! The doctor hung up the phone with a smile on his face. No matter what, Silverlake is not as good as Insterimond. It is a dream of all doctors of Silverlake to be able to work in Insterimond Central Hospital. And I will soon realize this dream!

On the other end of the line, Janet had just hung up when Ken appeared at the door.

She quickly put down the phone and asked weakly, Ken. What did the doctor say to you? Could it be… that I’m sick?

Ken stopped in his tracks and quickly regained his usual expression. He shook his head and said, you’re not sick. The doctor just told me some things to take note of. In the future, you have to protect your stomach and don’t drink again.

Janet heaved a sigh of relief and nodded with a smile. I won’t drink anymore. Didn’t you ask me to return to your side? I don’t need to drink to drown my sorrows anymore.

Ken opened his mouth, but when he remembered the doctor’s reminder, he swallowed the words he wanted to say. He only hummed and said, just remember not to drink alcohol.

As he spoke, he paused and asked. Janet, have you thought about who you want to marry in the future?

Janet looked puzzled. Why are you suddenly asking this?

Nothing…He hesitated and shook his head.

Janet suddenly smiled shyly and said, I think you know best who I want to marry.

Ken’s expression stiffened slightly, but in the end, he pursed his lips and said nothing.

On the other side, Melody went to Herbathrive before returning to Icy Clear Cosmetics.

Today, Beverly went to the hospital for a follow-up and some preoperative preparations. Only Colin was at the Herbathrive.

Melody directly gave him a list. Mr. Colin, please help me get the medicine according to this formula.

Okay! Colling took the prescription without a word and took a look.

A few seconds later, his eyes suddenly widened. Because he was too excited, even his voice began to tremble. Melody, this formula of yours, is it the legendary Queen Josephine’s royal beauty prescription?

Colin looked around and saw that no one was paying attention to him. This time, he lowered his voice and said, How can I know that? It’s just that a few years ago, half of Queen Josephine’s beauty formula spread in the industry. I saw the first half of your formula was the same as that one. So I asked. How surprising. Is it real?

Melody nodded. Only the first half of the formula has been passed down, but very few people know about it. As for the second half, Mr. Parker and I have read countless ancient books and researched them ourselves. It took us several years to develop it.

Colin hurriedly said, Don’t worry, I won’t reveal this formula to others. I’ll get the medicine for you to prevent it from getting exposed.

Melody nodded. She looked at Colin, who was getting the medicine. Then, she asked about Beverly’s recent situation.

Recently, her health has improved a lot. Her complexion has become rosy, and she’s willing to eat three meals a day on time. All of this is thanks to you. I believe that after taking the medicine for a few more days, her body will be ready for the operations, said Colin.

Melody heaved a sigh of relief. That’s great. I’ve been busy recently, so I’m afraid I can’t come often. But with you keeping an eye on Mrs. Herbert, I have nothing to worry about.

Soon, the ingredients in the formula were all done. As Colin carefully wrapped it for her, he said, that person from the Taylor family came this morning. I officially recommended you to her. When do you have time to see her?

Melody thought for a moment. She did not want to drag things out for long, so she said. Help me ask her if she has time for lunch tomorrow. If Yes, She can choose an address, and I’ll be there.

Okay! I’ll call her later and send you the message, said Colin.

Alright, Melody took the medicine and said goodbye to Colin. then, confused, she asked, why didn’t I see David today?

Colin replied I sent him to further his studies. Ever since he met you, this child’s personality has become much more stable. I think it’s time to start nurturing him.

David is one of the few people his age who truly loves this industry. He’s also smart. However, he still hasn’t lost his childish nature. Train him more, he’ll be a good doctor in the future. When he’s almost done learning, I’ll guide him personally.

She needed help, When David learned some things in the future, he could be her assistant.

Colin was happy for David. That’s his honor! I’ll learn from you two when you guide him.

Melody smiled and waved goodbye to Colin. Then, she rushed to Icy Clear Cosmetics.

It had been almost two hours since she left Icy Clear Cosmetics. If she didn’t go back soon, she would be suspected.

Not long after the car stopped at the entrance of Icy Clear Cosmetics.

Melody was about to get out of the car when she bumped into Troy, who was coming out of the building next door.

Troy’s face was brimming with a smile. It was a sinister smile that made people feel uncomfortable.

Melody didn’t want to be meddlesome, She waited until Troy left in the car before getting off.

She looked at the building again and took a photo to send to James.

She added: [Help me investigate this company. I want all the information. Thank you.]

After sending it, Melody stepped into Icy Clear Cosmetics.

She was still worried Tim would be suspicious if she left too long.

However, when she arrived at the R&D department, she found Tim inviting everyone for afternoon snacks.

When he saw her enter, he smiled and greeted her, Miss Fox, come over here quickly. I bought a lot of snacks. Eat with everyone.

Chapter 238

Melody could tell from Tim’s expression that he did not care how long she had been out.

After calming down, her gaze fell on the long table in the lounge.

It was filled with a dazzling array of snacks, and there were even the best-selling crayfish of the season.

She couldn’t help but frown. As expected, Tim has ulterior motives. We only have seven days left before the betting ends. Not only does he not seize the time to develop a new product, but he also wastes his time on the afternoon snacks. If Tim wants to win the bet, he probably won’t even be able to sleep, let alone eat afternoon snacks.

Melody narrowed her eyes coldly and said indifferently, No need. I’m not hungry.

As she spoke, she carried the herbs and walked toward the backup research and development room.

Tim shouted hypocritically at her back. Melody Fox, you can do it. If you’re hungry, come out and eat at any time. Although work is important, your body can’t collapse. Our company needs you.

Melody knew that Tim was openly mocking her, but she could not be bothered to argue with him.

There was no benefit in arguing with Tim even if she won, she might as well hurry up and start developing new products.

Without looking back, she quickened her pace and left.

Tim only thought that Melody had admitted defeat. He sneered in disdain and turned to tell the researchers. Everyone, please help yourself.

Some researchers were impatient and could not help but say, Mr. Mayer, we still have a lot of work to do. We’d better forget about the snacks first.

That’s right, we only have seven days… someone echoed.

Tim waved his arm and said, Good health is necessary for work. How can you develop new products if you don’t eat more to get more energy? I can’t let you say that I exploited you so much that your body broke down and didn’t develop a new product. Stop talking and eat hard. No one can work until you finish these things.

The employees sighed in their hearts but dared not openly go against Tim. They could only bury their heads and eat.

Some began to complain about Melody.

That woman just now is the person who is bet with Silk Beauty Cosmetics, right? If it weren’t for her, we wouldn’t be in such a hurry…

Yes, it’s her! I heard from others that she also wants a backup laboratory and is developing a new product alone. Isn’t it a joke? We’re so busy here, it’s fine if she doesn’t help, but she still has to fight alone. I don’t know what she’s thinking.

Forget it, She’ll only be a hindrance if she helps. I heard from Mr. Mayer that she’s a country bumpkin who doesn’t know anything. She can’t do anything at all. It’s a good thing that she doesn’t interfere.

Everyone sighed and did not dare to flare up at Tim. They could only scold Melody.

Hearing these words, Tim immediately felt even more smug.

Firstly, Melody doesn’t have the ability. Secondly, she had lost the support of the people under my influence. Now, she has no advantage. She can’t develop a new product! At the thought of this, Tim could not be bothered to keep an eye on what Melody was doing. He put on disposable gloves and started peeling crayfish.

Oh, this crayfish is so yummy. I like super spicy ones, Tim said.

In the spare laboratory, without Tim’s interruption, Melody could not ask for more.

She quickly cleaned up the laboratory and began to check the various instruments.

The good news was that a lot of the equipment in the spare lab was new, but the bad news was she lacked a necessary instrument. She couldn’t do anything without that.

However, that instrument was an imported product. Even if Melody placed the order now, it would take at least five days to arrive.

After thinking about it, Melody logged into the black market forum and posted a bounty post.

As soon as the post was posted, someone took the order.

Melody hurriedly opened the dialog box and contacted the person who took the order. [Are you in Silverlake? How new is the instrument?]

The other party quickly replied: [It’s brand new. I work in the customs warehouse in Silverlake. The items are confiscated. If you want them, come at midnight tonight, and I’ll hand them to you in person.]

Melody was indeed in a hurry to use the instrument. She thought for a moment and replied with an OK.

The other party quickly sent an address. It was near the customs warehouse.

With the equipment, the thing is more than half successful. Melody heaved a sigh of relief and began to sort the herbs.

Although she and Quintin had written the final formula, the ratio was not detailed. She had to experiment with different proportions until she picked the right one.

However, without that instrument, she could only operate many things manually, so the progress was naturally much slower.

When the sky turned completely dark, there was a knock on the door of the spare laboratory.

Miss Fox, are you still working overtime? Tim walked in with his typical smile. He looked around the laboratory and finally looked at Melody. He asked, how’s the progress, Ms Fox?

Melody met Tim’s gaze expressionlessly and said, Mr. Mayer what’s the matter?

Tim’s smile deepened. I’m here to remind you that I’m getting off work. After work, the R&D department will lock the door, I’m afraid you don’t know this rule, so I specially came to remind you.

Blackout? Melody frowned and looked at the time. It’s only seven o’clock and it’s a special time. Why are you off work so early?

Tim shrugged. Miss Fox, Ever since an employee in this area died from working overtime, the higher-ups have been investigating all the companies very strictly. We can’t stay in the company after seven o’clock. You shouldn’t make things difficult for me.

When haven’t I heard of this rule? Melody asked.

Tim shrugged. Then you can choose not to leave. I’ll open the door at eight o’clock tomorrow.

Melody’s eyes darkened. Tim, do you think I don’t know what you’re thinking? Aren’t you afraid Wilmot will fire you first when he returns?

Tim smiled faintly. Mr. Wilmot is sick. Mr. Leo is in charge of the company now. You can tell him tomorrow and ask him to fire me if you don’t like me.

Melody’s cold gaze landed on Tim. Her gaze was like a knife, making Tim’s back turn cold.

He could not help but frown and ask, are you leaving or not? If not, I’ll lock the door.

I’m leaving. Melody loosened her fits and told herself, you can’t be hasty. Tim and Leo’s punishment will come soon.

She pursed her lips coldly and quickly packed her things before walking out of the door.

Only then did Tim smile again. That’s the right thing to do, Miss Fox. You have to alternate work with rest to do your job better.

Melody could not be bothered with Tim. She changed the password for the lock of the laboratory and strode away.

Seeing this scene, Tim sneered. Miss Fox, are you afraid that I’ll go in and steal something? Don’t forget that I’m in charge of this floor. Let me make it clear. Even if you invite me in, I won’t enter your laboratory because there’s no need for that. Who would care about something impossible to succeed.

Chapter 239

Is it impossible to succeed? Melody sneered in her heart. But she said calmly, Regardless of whether it succeeds, I’ll do my best. Aren’t you also doing your best to watch your employees make an improved version of Golden Water? You probably want the company to operate normally more than I do, right?

Tim laughed. This… Of course., I’ll do my best. To make my employees healthier, I bought this afternoon snacks at my own expense.

Melody smiled mockingly. Thank you, then, Mr. Mayer. If there’s nothing else, I’ll take my leave first.

With that, she did not waste any more time with Tim and quickly left the R&D department.

Tim frowned and stared at Melody’s figure until it completely disappeared. Then, he looked at the door of the spare laboratory.

Should I think of a way to go in and take a look? he wondered.

After a moment, he laughed mockingly and shook his head.

What am I thinking? If that girl can develop a new product, won’t the other employees in the R&D department become a joke? I’d better not waste my time. I have an appointment to drink at the bar tonight. Thinking of this, Tim no longer looked at the spare laboratory. He quickly left and took the elevator to the underground garage.

On the other side.

Melody had just walked out of the building of Icy Clear Cosmetics when she looked up and saw the employees of the R&D department waiting for the bus stop in front.

The group of people who were originally chatting happily immediately fell silent the moment they saw her.

Melody nodded slightly as a form of greeting. Just as she was about to hail a taxi, she heard an employee say mockingly, Those with a backer are indeed different. They don’t have to wait for the bus like us.

This sentence instantly opened everyone’s mouths. They began to ridicule Melody.

How did you confuse Mr. Sherman? How did you make him watch you deliver Icy Clear Cosmetics to Silk Beauty Cosmetics?

Country bumpkins should stay in the countryside. Why did you come out to cause trouble? You made all of us lose our jobs because of your ignorance.

I’m dying of laughter. You even deliberately got off work last. Don’t think we don’t know that you’re just slacking in the spare office.

Isn’t this the same as wanting a good reputation after doing a bad thing? Do you think we don’t know what kind of person you are

If you want to help, you might as well not come again tomorrow onward. It will affect our mood.

Melody’s hand froze in mid-air as the taxi brushed past her.

She retracted her hand and listened to everyone’s mockery. It would be a lie to say that she didn’t feel terrible.

However, she also knew these people were countless times better than Leo and Tim. At least they were worried about the company’s safety.

Therefore, Melody did not react and did not intend to fight back.

Everyone kept mocking her. Seeing that Melody did not have any reactions, they gradually lost interest.

Coincidentally, the bus arrived at this moment. They boarded the bus one after another, and the surroundings instantly fell silent.

Melody looked deeply in the direction where the bus left, and her hands that were hanging to her sides slowly tightened.

I will do my best! She thought.

Soon, another taxi arrived. This time Melody did not miss it. After getting into the car, she said. To Central Hospital.

Half an hour later, Melody appeared at the door of Wilmot’s ward.

James was on the phone. when he saw her coming over, he gestured for her to wait beside him.

Melody nodded and waited quietly for James to finish his call.

James asked anxiously, So? Did that guy have seen Mr. Ken? No? It’s good that he didn’t. Remember, you must not let him discover Mr. Ken’s identity! You only have to brush him off. If necessary, you can say Mr. Ken is from overseas and rarely returns to the country.

As James spoke, he gave a few more instructions before hanging up.

Melody observed James’s expression and asked, Did something happen?

James sighed and said, It’s a small thing, but it’s not small either… Something happened to the black market today. Mr. Ken went over personally to deal with it. Coincidentally, Ulric went to the black market. The two of them almost met.

Melody’s heart immediately skipped a beat. Ken’s wings are not fully grown yet. It’s best to hide his strength at this time. If Ulric discovers him, it’ll be troublesome.

She quickly asked, Did Ulric find out? No, Mr. Ken hid in time. It’s those people’s fault for not recognizing Ulric, said James.

Upon hearing this, Melody felt slightly relieved and asked, Why did Ulric go to the black market?

James pursed his lips and said, That guy doesn’t know that the person behind this is Mr. Ken. He wants to discuss collaboration.

Melody nodded and asked, why did you stop me now?

Only then did James remember the serious matter and said. Before Mr. Ken left, he asked me to ask you if you can treat infertility.

Melody did not answer directly. She only said, who’s infertile?

James looked around and said in a low voice, Ms. Murphy.

Melody’s eyelid twitched. Janet? She’s infertile?

She never heard of this in her previous life. She remembered that she had investigated Janet thoroughly. She couldn’t miss such important information.

Melody was puzzled. But she still asked calmly, Did Ken ask me to treat her, or did she suggest it herself?

James sighed and said, Miss Murphy drank alcohol yesterday, causing her gastrointestinal problems. The doctor instructed Mr. Ken to tell her this news when she recovered.

So this is what Ken told me to do? Melody asked.

James looked at Melody unhappily and asked, Miss Fox, aren’t you a doctor? Are you going to leave her in the lurch? Being infertile is almost equivalent to a death sentence for a woman. You can’t refuse to treat Miss Murphy because of personal problems, right?

Melody looked at James coldly. It’s not that I don’t want to save her, but do you think Janet will let me treat her?

If you can treat her, why won’t she let you treat her? Miss Murphy isn’t such a petty person, said James.

Are you saying that I’m a petty one? Melody sounded angry.

I didn’t say that… James mumbled weakly.

Melody was also annoyed. Not only does Janet not stop causing trouble, but her methods are also getting more disgusting.

She said, in that case, tell her when the time comes that I can treat her as long as she’s willing to let me treat her.

Alright! A smile appeared on James’s face again when he heard her words. He said, I’ve already sorted out the information on the company you asked me to check during the day. I’ll send it to your email in a while.

Remember to take a look.

Thank you. She thanked him and went through the door to check on Wilmot.

Wilmot’s condition had improved a lot. Although this complexion was still terrible, his mental state was not bad.

When she entered, Wilmot was looking up something on his tablet.

Upon seeing her, Wilmot quickly put down his tablet and said, Melody, I’ve found information about that woman.

Melody’s eyes lip up as she walked over. Go ahead.

Chapter 240

Wilmot spread the tablet before Melody and pointed to the photo on the screen. That’s her.

Melody lowered her eyes and looked over. The woman in the photo had an exquisite figure was lazy and charming, and had a good appearance. Although she did not have the youthful aura of a young girl, her temperament was calm and elegant.

Wilmot said, Guess how old this woman is.

Melody carefully observed the photo and said a number. In her thirties?

Wrong! Wilmot shook his head and said. She’s already in her fifties!

Melody’s eyes were filled with surprise. A person in her fifties can make herself look like she is only in her thirties? It could be seen how much this person cares about maintenance. Time has not let anyone off, but it sees it has let her off. However, if the other party is a person who knows pharmacology very well, it is not strange for her to maintain her appearance like this.

However, the more Melody looked at the woman in the photo, the more familiar she looked. It was as if she had seen this woman somewhere before.

She frowned slightly and said, Go on.

Wilmot hurriedly continued, This woman’s name is Jennie Taylor. She’s the younger sister of the Taylor family’s current heir. However, for some reason, she was expelled by the Taylor family more than ten years ago. Oh, right, she also has another identity. She’s the Junior apprentice of Quintin Parker, the famous traditional doctor.

Melody’s eyelids twitched twice. She instantly remembered where she had seen this woman before. When Quintin was cleaning the house with her in a year, she found a photo in the storeroom. The woman in the photo was Jennie.

However, Quintin seemed to dislike Jennie very much. After seeing the photo, he immediately lit a fire and burned it.

She recalled what Quintin had said. This woman had betrayed her sect and violated traditional medicine’s principles. She had already been expelled from her sect and later died in an accident. Why is she here now? Was she faking her death, or was she revived because of some kind of fate like me? The more Melody thought about it, the more uneasy she felt.

She took a photo of the woman on the tablet with her phone and asked solemnly, Other than these, did you find anything else?

Wilmot shook his head apologetically. That’s all I can find out. This woman is too mysterious. If I want to find out more about her, I’m afraid I’ll have to start with Leo or ask the Taylor family people.

Okay, I see. Melody responded and calmed down to check Wilmot’s pulse.

His pulse was much more stable than during the day but was still weak.

You need to recuperate well. Don’t investigate this thing about Jennie anymore. Resting is the most important thing for you now, Melody said.

Okay, I know. Wilmot nodded and asked reluctantly, Are you leaving?

Yes… Melody replied. I have an appointment tonight to buy laboratory equipment. I have to go to the customs warehouse.

Do you need my help? After Wilmot asked, he realized that there was nothing he could do to help. Helpless he said, I’m sorry, I don’t think I can help now.

It’s fine. It’s a transaction of money and goods. There won’t be any problems, said Melody.

Wilmot nodded, but an inexplicable sense of uneasiness rose in his heart. He could not help but remind Melody a few more times and asked her to share her position at any time. Only then did he feel relieved and let her go.

Melody left the hospital and stood at the crossroads in front of the hospital. Her eyes could not help but look a little lost.

There are still four hours to twelve. where should I go in those four hours? She could not help but laugh at herself. There is no place I want to go in the huge Silverlake.

A trace of sadness flashed across her heart. Fortunately, she was no longer a sentimental person. She quickly regained her spirits and took a taxi back to the Fox family.

She hadn’t gone home for a day and a night. If I go home now, my family will probably explode, Melody thought.

However, it was not something new that her family exploded because of her. She was already used to it.

Half an hour later, the car stopped at the door of the Fox villa.

Russel had been watching the news in the living room when Melody pushed the door open and entered. Yolanda was accompanying him nicely, looking humble.

Hearing the commotion, Russell turned to look at Melody.

Melody was already prepared to face the storm from Russell. However, surprisingly, Russell’s face revealed a fatherly amiable smile. Melody, you’re back?

Melody was caught off guard by Russell’s attitude. She was not sure if this was a calm before the storm.

After hesitating for a moment, Melody took the initiative to apologize. I’m sorry Dad, about the Clark family…

Before she could finish her sentence, Russell interrupted her with a wave of his arm. Why are you bringing that annoying thing? Also, you’re not the one at fault. Why are you apologizing?

Melody could not help but be puzzled.

She suddenly remembered that when she met Troy during the day, Troy had said, I made such a big move to withdraw the order, but your father still defended you. Millions of question marks appeared in her mind.

Russell is not angry? What is going on? Has Russell changed? Probably because Melody looked confused, Russell also felt puzzled.

He asked, Didn’t Mr. Swanson tell you that he had already made up for all the losses the Clark family had caused our family?

Huh? Melody was stunned.

Not only that, I have another good news for you! Swanson Universal Entertainment will soon terminate the collaboration with Troy. Mr. Swanson said he would leave this collaboration opportunity to the Justalion Group. My good daughter, you’re my baby! You’ve done a great job! Russell said.

Melody finally understood what was going on.

It turned out that Ken had already arranged everything for her. Something stirred in Melody’s heart.

Russell did not notice the change in her expression and continued, Oh, right, why didn’t you stay at your Margaret’s house for a few more days? You should rest for a few days after suffering such a huge shock.

Melody did not say anything. She guessed it was the excuse Ken found for her because she didn’t go home last night.

However, he had already resolved the problem for me. Why did he still let me stay at his house? Melody could not understand this question no matter how she thought about it. She decided not to think about it anymore. She turned to look at Russell and said, I’m not used to living outside. Coupled with the fact that I was worried about Grandma’s health, I came back.

Russell looked at her with even more satisfaction. You’re indeed a good girl. Then go and see your grandmother quickly. I have to sleep early too. I have to release the news that we will collaborate with Swanson Universal Entertainment in the next few days. I’ll invest more and expand the production line. Otherwise, when massive orders come in, I’m afraid the company won’t be able to handle it, Russell said and went upstairs happily.

In the living room, Yolanda looked at Melody with resentment.

Melody turned a blind eye and walked toward the backyard.

Just as she brushed past Yolanda, Yolanda suddenly said. You must be very proud of yourself, right?

Melody stopped in her tracks and looked at Yolanda expressionlessly. I don’t understand what you mean. Don’t you feel happy that the company has a good opportunity?

Yolanda pursed her lips and did not answer the question. She only warned coldly, Troy will never let you go. You better not be happy too early. The higher you stand, the worse you will fall.

Thank you for your reminder, Yolanda. Melody smiled and didn’t stop.

However, when she reached the backyard, the smile on her face quickly disappeared. What Yolanda said this time is true. Troy will not let the matter rest. However, I can only be cautious before I know what the other party wants to do.

Melody had just left the living room when Mabel returned home.

Mom… Mabel had an ecstatic smile on her face.

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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.

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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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