Chapter 114

Colton hadn't gone far; he stood by the stairs, his hand gripping the railing tightly as he listened to the commotion inside. A loud crash echoed through the room, making him stiffen. The unmistakable sound of breaking glass followed—Melany, in her fury, had smashed the wine glasses.

Normally, Colton would have taken a deep breath, put aside his anger, and calmed her down. He was used to their arguments, which fizzled out as quickly as they began, more playful than serious. But this time felt different. The tension was sharper, and he sensed a change between them. Melany seemed unlike herself. He vaguely remembered their early days, when she shyly clung to his arm, her cheeks flushed as she smiled at his every playful comment. "Enough," she would laugh, adding, "Colton is like a brother to me…"

Now, that statement stung. She considered her ex-husband a brother, too? How many brothers did she have? The comparison spread like a crack in glass. His expression darkened, irritation rising as he grabbed his car keys, ready to leave.

But before he could go, Lindy's sharp voice cut through the air. "Colton, you're seriously leaving alone on your wedding night? Imagine the disgrace!" she insisted. "It's your big day. We must show strength. As long as you're not ashamed, no one will dare mock us."

He approached her slowly, placing a hand on her shoulder with calculated gentleness. His tone was deceptively soft. "Go calm Melany down," he instructed. "I've brought a large sum from my family: ten million dollars. Your parents may be astute, but they're not clever. People like them are easily manipulated. If we faced the smartest, our family would struggle to maintain control."

His words cut deep. His jaw clenched, his fingers tightening around the keys. Through the closed door, he heard Melany's sobs, tugging at something within him. His resolve wavered. After all, this was the woman he'd longed for. Perhaps Melany was innocent, and her ex-husband was simply trying to spite them.

"I understand, Mom," he sighed, resigned. "I'll comfort her."

"Good. I'm glad you're coming to your senses," Lindy replied, her eyes narrowed as she watched him retreat to the bedroom. A slow, mocking smile played on his lips; a flash of satisfaction flickered in his eyes. Love. Mere illusions. She knew only self-interest held true weight.

Inside, Melany sat on the bed, her face twisted with anguish. Of all nights, it had to be their wedding night. When the door opened, her tears flowed perfectly, amplifying her despair. Colton approached slowly, putting his arms around her. He caressed her, wiping away her tears.

"It's okay, don't cry," he whispered, his breath warm against her skin. "I only said those things because I care about you. That's why your ex-husband bothers me. I'm sorry, Melany. It won't happen again."

He kissed the corner of her trembling lips. She leaned into him, seeking his warmth. "Colton, please trust me," she pleaded, her voice soft. "I only care about you. Don't doubt me anymore. You break my heart."

"I won't, I promise."

Melany sighed with relief. The tension melted away, a small smile curving her mouth. His objective was achieved; she knew she could bend him to her will. If she could manipulate him once, she could do it again and again.

They kissed, forgetting their argument, lost in passion. But as Melany closed her eyes, lost in pleasure, she didn't see the dark shadow clouding Colton's expression. He thought bitterly of Allison, and how she would mock him mercilessly if she knew.