Chapter 1148:
Judging by how everyone had gathered around her, it was clear that Karina was the focal point of their conversation. She radiated the dangerous charm of a woman who fiercely clutched at power, leaning smoothly against Deandre as his arm rested casually around her waist — a gesture of intimacy that drew the attention of everyone nearby.
Rylie murmured to Melany, “Deandre’s putting on a show, acting like he’s negotiating with the Mista Dunkadelic on her behalf — but it’s all a performance.”
Melany’s face remained hidden behind her mask, concealing her expression, but her tone was calm and measured. “Even if it’s just an act, that woman genuinely loves Deandre.” She glanced at Rylie. “You can always tell when someone’s truly in love — just watch their eyes closely.”
Rylie remained quiet, acknowledging the truth in Melany’s observation. Few women could resist Deandre’s precise blend of charm, commanding presence, powerful physique, staggering wealth, and flawless looks. Even standing nearby was enough to set hearts racing.
Melany leaned closer, her voice steady. “So, what’s my move?”
Rylie’s response was simple and direct. “Draw Karina’s attention.”
A wry, bitter smile flickered across Melany’s lips. She had already managed to capture Karina’s attention once before — though not in the most graceful manner.
Rylie quietly stepped back, blending seamlessly into the dimly lit surroundings.
Karina eventually drifted away from the group, and Melany adjusted her gown before making her way to the bar. She and Rylie stood side by side, placing their drink orders together.
Yo𝘶r 𝗇𝘦x𝘵 𝘧a𝘃𝗼r𝘪𝘵e r𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘪𝘴 о𝘯 𝗀a𝘭𝗇o𝘷e𝘭ѕ.c𝗈𝘮
Karina pivoted, and with one swift glance, her eyes locked onto the girl beside her. A teasing smile spread across her face. “Ah, so it’s you — Deandre’s little favorite.”
Melany sipped her drink deliberately, keeping her gaze fixed on Karina. “I remember you as well. Are you playing servant to all those men? How many did you sleep with just to get near Deandre?”
Karina didn’t flinch at the taunt. If anything, her smile broadened. “Jealous, are you?”
“Deandre belongs to me alone,” Melany retorted, holding Karina’s gaze. “You do know you’re being used, right?”
“You want to wager on that?” Karina shot back. “If you challenge me, do you honestly think Deandre will protect you? Men like him value profit over feelings. Only someone like me has the right to stand beside him.”
The words landed like a well-aimed dart, and the sting was visible on Melany’s face. In one swift movement, she grabbed her drink and threw its icy contents over Karina.
Moments later, a sharp, furious voice cut through the ambient chatter.
“How dare you spill that on me?” Karina barked, slapping Melany hard enough to send her mask tumbling to the floor.
Melany, unshaken, retaliated with a swift kick to Karina’s shin. Karina could have countered, but she deliberately let herself fall backward — landing safely into a strong, steady embrace. The man holding her was none other than Deandre, who had been close enough to notice the disturbance and rushed forward at once.
As Karina settled into Deandre’s arms, every eye in the hall turned toward them, drawn involuntarily, as though a spotlight had suddenly illuminated the scene.
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