SWNOVELS Chapter 68
"You know, I got into the world of perfumery just because of you.
I've always longed to be of help.
"
Melany bit her lip, tears cascading down her cheeks as she looked at him.
He could have escaped punishment, but then the president of the Everett Group suddenly intervened, nullifying his eligibility and the contest results.
As a result, Colton lost the opportunity to collaborate and faced humiliation in front of the media.
When they left the contest, Colton remained quiet and thoughtful, even treating her coldly.
Determined, Melany took it upon herself to apologize.
“All these years, I have searched and recreated Scarlet Snake perfumes, enduring countless hardships.
If I had known earlier that Allison, who was by your side for three years, was Scarlet Snake, I would have been spared this confusion.
”
Colton's stern expression began to melt, his heart softening as he watched the beautiful woman with tears in her eyes.
“Okay, enough with the tears,” he said, finally forgiving her as he gently dried her face.
But beneath her indulgent exterior, frustration bubbled.
Something didn't add up.
"Allison fooled even me.
How could I hold her accountable? She kept her secret well for three long years.
"
He had never realized how formidable Allison was.
What bothered him most was how she had distanced herself.
She used to cook for him and do his laundry; now she treated him like a stranger.
What bothered him most was that even after the divorce, his thoughts were still tangled up with Allison.
“No matter how renowned she is, your kindness far exceeds hers.
”
Colton put his arms around Melany, trying to comfort her, although he felt as if he were soothing his own wounds.
Just then, he looked up and saw Allison strolling by.
She was wearing a silver dress, topped off with an elegant black coat for the cold night.
Mysterious and cold, she gave off a heroic air, completely ignoring them.
Colton’s expression changed from surprise to icy disdain.
“Stop!”
At his command, Allison and Rebecca stopped, their words sharp as daggers.
“What, you want us to stop and admire your public display of affection? Do you need to drag me into this circus?” Allison’s tone dripped with mockery, showing no consideration.
She and Rebecca clearly wished to avoid the interruption of their rare and enjoyable evening.
Seeing Colton provoke them again, Rebecca turned her head, looking at him with contempt.
"Allison's right.
Can't you keep your cuddles and kisses at home? Even animals have more decency than you.
"
Colton’s anger flared at those sharp words.
“Miss Green, you belong to the Green family.
You shouldn’t side with outsiders.
Our Stevens family may not have as much power as yours, but we have worked together on some projects.
”
Not only had he lost his chance to cooperate today, but the media had also captured his humiliation.
The hush money alone was a heavy burden.
His gaze hardened at the thought.
"I don't know how Allison tricked you, but you should at least support me, considering we're partners.
"
Rebecca laughed, disbelief painting her features.
“Thank you for reminding me of our collaboration.
If you hadn’t mentioned it, I might have forgotten.
After all, such small projects rarely make it to my desk.
”
With a sly smile, Rebecca picked up the phone.
“I’ll let my father know right away.
Our Green Group will not partner with a bankrupt company like yours; it’s too risky.
”
“You!” Colton had made it a point to remind him of their partnership to gain some respect, but he never anticipated that he would lose another contract, further fueling his frustration.
Melany, at her side, looked incredulous.
“Miss Green, this is simply a personal vendetta.
But bringing business into this? Isn’t that a bit petty?”
“Small? Compared to money, I value integrity much more.
Our family is not short of money,” Rebecca replied, her tone dripping with arrogance.
“But we have encountered some unpleasant characters!”
Allison nodded lazily.
“Of course, this restaurant must raise its standards.
Otherwise, anyone can come in.
”
Colton was speechless.
His fury only grew.