Chapter 288

"Is there really no way to meet Allison, considering she wants nothing to do with you?" Lindy seethed, her frustration evident. "Those two scoundrels are now using the jade to argue that you're not the heir Keanu has chosen."

With the jade handed over to Allison, anyone could now claim the heir's position. Lindy clutched her chest in indignation, her sharp words stinging like barbs. "Why are you acting like a fool now that Allison is out of the picture?" Her impulsive outburst only exasperated Colton.

Melany, however, remained calm and rational. "Lindy, please don't speak like that. It's completely unfair to Colton. He's been doing everything he can," she said softly, linking her arm with Colton's. "Colton, keep your chin up. Even if we can't get the jade back, I heard there's a badge at the charity auction that could give us a major advantage. Winning that badge might turn the tide."

Colton's brow furrowed, and even Lindy seemed intrigued. She eyed Melany skeptically. "Where did you hear about this?"

"It's insider information from a friend," Melany replied calmly. "So, Colton, securing that badge is our priority. Those two illegitimate children of your father may think they have the upper hand, but with that badge, we could let the Dark Web handle them directly." Her unnerving calm suggested this dangerous plan was commonplace.

Colton felt a jolt of shock, sensing something was amiss with Melany. But her next words captivated him. "Those two idiots are walking around like they own the place because they think we have no leverage. But if we get that badge, it'll flip the script. There might even be some infighting between them, especially since one has a personality that could lead to his own undoing if pushed far enough." A slow smile spread across Melany's face. "We could create a situation where they turn on each other, and we can sit back and reap the rewards. Neither of them would want to show their hand first, especially if it jeopardized their claim to the badge."

Colton understood immediately. "So, it's about letting them tear each other apart."

"That could be quite a spectacle, and at the very least, it would intimidate them," Melany confirmed.

Even Lindy ceased her complaints. She knew their main goal was to eliminate the "fools" and secure Colton's rightful place. However, she remained suspicious of Melany's source of information. But Lindy, ever quick-witted, stood, gripping Melany's wrist with surprising strength, her knuckles whitening. Bruises marred Melany's skin.

"Melany, you've really outdone yourself. I was wrong about you regarding the brooch. I sincerely apologize. Please don't hold it against me." Lindy, understanding the importance of appearances, continued, "As for the auction, it all depends on you and Colton. If you need more funds, just let me know."

Melany offered a practiced smile. She recognized Lindy's theatrical skills.

Colton felt relief at their newfound accord; he wouldn't have to mediate their conflicts. But upon seeing Melany's exquisite brooch, his mother's words echoed in his mind: Is it a gift from some secret admirer? A shadow crossed his expression. He couldn't honestly say he didn't mind Melany's past. Their wedding remained a constant, painful memory.

Unaware of his turmoil, Melany assumed he was merely tired. "Colton, you seem a bit off."

"It's nothing. Just a little tired," he replied, subtly brushing her hand aside and rubbing his temples. He felt an inexplicable resistance towards her. Melany, preoccupied, didn't notice. "Once we snag that badge, things will get easier," she chirped. "You won't feel so worn out." A cold smile played on her lips. If she obtained the badge, Allison would be her first target.