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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