Colton was there with Rebecca, who couldn't suppress her laughter. She mimicked Melany's words with feigned sweetness:

"Well, even dogs have a taste for dirt. It's in their nature. But when they parade around in public as if it's something to be proud of? That's disgusting. You should leave before I say something worse."

Melany's face paled, her eyes welling up. Desperately, she grabbed Colton's sleeve.

"Miss Green, I understand you come from a privileged background, and your family may indulge you, but that doesn't give you the right to hurl insults. Allison's deception was masterful; otherwise, Colton wouldn't have fallen for it…"

Colton's expression darkened at Rebecca's words. Though restrained by his social position, his voice was cold.

"Miss Green, before you rush to Allison's defense, consider her true nature. This woman is all vanity, always seeking opportunity. Don't let her fool you." His gaze was sharp, clouded by memories of Athton, his irritation evident. "Allison acted like the perfect, loving partner, but she could turn off her emotions like a switch. Be careful; she could be using you, too."

Rebecca didn't flinch. Her laughter rang out, louder this time.

"At first, I didn't want to believe it, but you're playing her like a violin. She can't even see what's in front of her. Should I applaud your performance or pity her lack of brains?"

Colton's expression twisted. "What are you implying, Miss Green?"

Rebecca casually put an arm around Allison's shoulders, a disdainful smile playing on her lips.

"Oh, nothing at all. You're just blind, Colton. I've known Allison for years. Do you think your words will change my opinion of her? When you were chasing your fantasy of a perfect, submissive woman, Allison gave you exactly what you wanted. But now? She doesn't need you, and she's done playing that role. Now, it seems you're angry at her wise choice."

She shook her head. "Honestly, a man as oblivious as you is a rare find!"

Rebecca then elbowed Allison. "You have to teach me those acting skills sometime. It might stop my dad from always calling me a wild child."

Allison sighed. "That's because some people can't tell the difference between gold and trash. When someone is born with bad taste, there's no helping them."

Colton couldn't help but smile slightly at the absurdity. Allison thought back to Athton. Kellan, with subtle hints, had connected the dots, even admitting she had once been Emanuel's teacher. But Colton, after three years living with her, hadn't noticed a thing. It was a matter of intelligence, plain and simple.

As the banter continued, Colton was speechless. The mockery was obvious, but he knew better than to show his frustration. Rebecca's rebellious reputation and her family's fierce protection made retaliation futile. If she angered and slapped him, the Green family would support her, leaving him with no recourse but to swallow his pride.

Melany forced a tense smile, trying to maintain composure.

"The competition is about to start. Allison, I know you like these perfume contests, but perhaps you should stay in the audience, in the back. We don't want you to miss anything." Her words dripped with sarcasm, the implication clear: Allison didn't belong.

Colton's face remained stony. "Not just anyone can get into this stadium."

Rebecca put her arm around Melany's waist, pulling her along. "Truly talented women like Melany don't need to scratch and claw for attention. Unlike those who rely on vanity. Maybe someday someone will realize her worth, but until then, it would be a shame to see her thrown out by security."

A staff member with a red brooch approached. "Hello, Miss Lemonade," he greeted. At these events, staff members' pins indicated their roles. This one was responsible for the SVIP room.

Colton scoffed at the mispronunciation. "Lemonade"? Allison shouldn't be here. You should escort the unqualified out before they make fools of themselves."

But the staff member ignored him. His attention was fixed on Allison, his demeanor changing to one of utmost respect when he noticed the champagne. Bowing slightly, he nodded politely.

"We have been eagerly awaiting your arrival. And knowing your preference for red wine, we have ensured it's prepared. The champagne in the main area doesn't meet the requirements, so please allow me to escort you to the SVIP lounge. We have prepared a private space just for you."