Chapter 261

Russell. the auction isn’t the real issue here. What I’m most worried about is Melody getting involved in the pharmaceutical group’s bet. As soon as Yolanda mentioned this, Russell’s face darkened. He had almost forgotten about it.

Even though Russell had signed an agreement with Melody stating that whether she succeeded or failed in the bet, it wouldn’t affect him or the Fox family, he couldn’t shake the feeling that if she failed, the family might still get dragged into it. The more he thought about it, the more annoyed he became, his face contorting with frustration.

Yolanda noticed the change in Russell’s expression and felt a secret of joy, but outwardly she looked worried and continued to fan the flames. If she wins the bet, the benefits go to Icy Clear Cosmetics, and we get nothing. But do you think Icy Clear Cosmetics won’t come after us if she loses? Melody is still our daughter; that’s an undeniable fact.

Russel frowned deeply thinking of it. You’re right. That kid never considers the consequences of her actions.

Yolanda nodded. It’s a shame she didn’t grow up with us. If she had our guidance, she wouldn’t be like this. She paused, then lifted her gaze. Russell, why don’t you find time to talk to the Swansons about the marriage? When can we finalize it? Once Mabel marries into the Swanson family, we can handle the fallout if Melody fails the bet.

Mabel, listening from the side, was thrilled. Mom is amazing. With just a few words, she managed to drive a wedge between Dad and Melody and secure a benefit for me, She thought, proud of her mother. As she thought about her impending marriage to the Swanson family, her face flushed with excitement.

Russell was silent for a few seconds before saying, it’s too late today. Mom is probably already asleep. Tomorrow, I’ll go with her to the Swanson residence. You and Mabel don’t need to go; let Mom handle it.

But… Yolanda pretended to be worried. What if Mom favors Melody and insists the marriage is for Melody? I’m not being selfish, I’m just afraid the Swansons may reject Melody, and we’ll end with nothing.

You’re right, Russel replied seriously. Mom does favor Melody sometimes but don’t worry. When it comes to something this important, she’ll be sensible. And if she isn’t, I’ll convince her.

Relieved, Yolanda hooked her arm through Russell’s. You’ve been working hard these days. Let me help you with your bath.

Yolanda took good care of herself and maintained a strict diet. Even in her forties, she had the figure of a young lady, curvy where it mattered and slender everywhere. As she pressed close to Russell, he felt his body heat up. Alright, let’s go bathe. His eyes gleamed with desire as he embraced Yolanda and led her upstairs.

Mabel watched, and her admiration for her mother grew. If I had Mom’s skills in handling men, Ulric would already be mine. But it doesn’t matter; I have a feeling that Ulric will be mine very soon. As for Melody, let her face the consequences of failing the bet and dealing with the Clark family’s revenge; she pondered. The more Mabel thought about it, the happier she felt, humming a little tune as she headed upstairs.

Meanwhile, Melody had just finished taking Maria’s pulse. Seeing that Maria’s health was improving, Melody wrote a new prescription and handed it to Hattie. Get these herbs from Herbathrive tomorrow. Make sure Yolanda doesn’t notice.

Of course, Miss Melody, Hattie replied obediently.

After settling Maria; Melody returned to her room. She contacted the real estate Manager, instructing them to sell all the properties she had bought in Silverlake. Then she logged onto the black market forum.

After a few days of not logging into the forum, Melody found several unread messages in her inbox. Miss Seconds, I’ve verified that you indeed know the nine-line acupuncture technique. I’ve gathered the 200 million dollars you requested. The funds are in the forum account. Once you cure my leg, the money is yours.

Melody arched her eyebrow, thinking Ulric was desperate to cure his leg. But she planned to keep him waiting, so she replied; I’ll treat you, but besides the 200 million dollars, I need something else.

Ulric was online and replied quickly: What do you need?

Melody: [It’s simple. I’m a collector of Antiques. Ten years ago, a batch of antiques from Pearly Antiques was auctioned off. If you can find and buy them for me, I don’t need the 200 million dollars.]

Ulric: [Miss Seconds, that’s asking a lot. Those items have been out there for years. Even if I can buy them back from collectors, it could take years…]

Melody: [Don’t bluff me. I know your capabilities. You can get those antiques.]

Ulruc hesitated and replied: [I can gather the ones that are out there, but a large portion is with my brother, Ken. Those antiques mean a lot to him, and it’s hard to get them from him.]

Melody: [If it’s difficult, forget the ones he has. Just get me the rest.]

Ulric: [Alright, but I’ll need some time.]

Melody: [Take your time, I’m patient. ]

Ulric replied with a simple “okay” and logged off.

Melody stared at the screen, sighing regretfully. She could’ve gotten 200 million dollars from Ulric, but she was willing to take a hit for Ken. She closed the chat window and started looking for suitable bounties to take on.

Soon, Melody noticed a high-paying bounty. 10 million dollars for an authentic landscape painting by Morin Palmer. Her heart skipped a beat as she thought, Morin Palmer. Isn’t that me?

With Melody’s natural talent for painting and her teacher Quentin’s guidance, she used the pseudonym “Morin Palmer” to create many works and participated in numerous landscape painting competitions by mail. She didn’t expect to find a fan on the black market forum, and she accepted the bounty.

The fan replied to the message almost instantly. [You have an authentic painting by Morin Palmer? She hasn’t released any new works in years. Don’t try to fool me with a fake. My grandfather is her devoted fan and the current president of the National Painting Association in Halcyon. He can spot a fake immediately.]

Melody calmly replied: [I’m telling the truth. I can have her paint one for you on the spot. But the price…]

The fan: [Really? Price is no issue! If you can have Morin Palmer attend my grandfather’s birthday banquet in person, I’ll get you an extra 10 million dollars!]

Melody: [No problem. Send me the time and place.]

The fan: [This month, on the 27th, at Naymar Manor. I’ll send you two electronic invitations. Just bring them with you.]

With more than half a month left until the 27th, Melody agreed and logged off.

Meanwhile…