Chapter 313: After slipping into more formal attire, Melany and Colton settled into their seats, neither wearing a smile on their faces.
Colton, we absolutely have to get that badge, Melany said, taking a deep breath as if bracing for a storm.
Lets endure this for now.
Once we secure it at the auction, there will be plenty of ways to handle Allison and her men.
Colton pressed his fingers to his temple, his eyes squeezed shut.
Yeah.
Irritation simmered beneath his skin.
Every tAllison entered the picture, it felt as if his control slipped right through his fingers.
His eyelid twitched, a telltale sign that trouble was brewing.
Meanwhile, Allison had her eyes on the two of them.
She glanced over at Sherman, her expression thoughtful.
Keep an eye on them.
If they make any moves, letknow.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtAllison had developed a habit from her profession: whenever she entered a new space, her instinct was to locate all exits and observe the ebb and flow of people.
That instinct was how she immediately noticed them.
Sherman nodded in compliance.
Yes.
It wasnt until he spoke that he realized the realityhis actual boss was Kellan, yet he had instinctively followed Allisons directive.
Instead of a mere unconscious response, it was Allisons natural authority that commanded respect.
Fortunately, Kellan didnt seem to mind it.
Not far away, Ferdinand frowned slightly.
The charity gala is open to anyone, but I certainly dont recall extending an auction invitation to those two. Unless, of course, the invitation had been passed along or acquired through less-than-reputable means.
But rather than raise any alarms, Ferdinand subtly gestured to one of his men.
Find out how Colton and Melany got their invitation.
Understood.
Melany sat down, gently massaging Coltons bruised wrist with a concerned expression.
Colton, dont worry.
Ive got everything mapped out.
Soon, well snag that badge.
Then, Melany implied something deeper.
And dont stress about the moneylve got enough saved up.
Even if youre short on funds right now, I wont let you lose face.
You only need to cover the deposit for now.
Coltons face stiffened, still reeling from his earlier embarrassment.
From a mans perspective, relying on a womans money felt like a blow to his pride.
Yet, having faced his grandfathers scolding, his company hanging by a thread, and his mother constantly nagging for financial support, Colton found it hard to turn her down.
Thanks.
I really appreciate it.
Frustration churned inside Colton as he considered his recent woes.
He felt trapped, like a lion in a cage, unsure how to shake off his pent-up irritation.
Since his divorce, nothing seemed to go his way, but Melanys considerate words helped ease his tension just a notch.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmFor once, Colton felt a flicker of guilt.
He shouldnt have doubted Melany, nor should he have kept dwelling on Allison.
Pulling Melany into an embrace, he kissed her forehead tenderly and said, Sweetheart, I love you.
Youre even willing to dip into your parents finances to helpout.
Not like someone else, who wouldnt lift a finger to save me.
The thought of Allisons cold indifference sent a sharp pang m through Cotton, especially in his injured fingers. He truly felt like a dark cloud hung over him.
He had never encountered a woman as callous as her.
Colton, you really dont need to keep thanking me.
After all, we are family, Melany said with a soft smile.
As long as I can help you, thats all that matters.
Of course, after they secured the badge, Melany had her own plans in mind.
As for the money, once Colton paid the deposit, Melany wouldconveniently claim her card was frozen.
What could he do thenjust walk away? It was easy for her to play this game, making sure it worked to her advantage.