"Rankings? They mean nothing to me," Allison said, deflecting Kellan's question with a light, playful smile directed at Melany. "I'm just here for the show, a little fun."

Kellan chuckled, clearly amused by her nonchalance. Their unspoken understanding was palpable; Allison was deliberately downplaying her abilities, and he noticed. Intrigued, he smiled. "Well, in that case, I wish you the best of luck, Miss Clarke."

He grasped the situation instantly. The contest was trivial to Allison; her tone hinted at a shared secret between them. This silent connection felt like a sharp jab to Colton. The idea that Allison, his ex-wife, shared an unspoken bond with another man gnawed at him, disturbing him more than he cared to admit. The fact that she had once been his only added insult to injury.

"Colton, we should go," Melany urged, clinging to his arm. "We don't want to be late for the waiting room."

Sensing her displeasure, he squeezed her arm possessively, hoping to flaunt their relationship. But Allison had already turned away, ignoring him.

When the staff arrived to escort Kellan to the SVIP room, Allison followed. Rebecca, ever perceptive, narrowed her eyes. "When did you become friends with Kellan?" she teased, playfully pinching Allison's cheek. "He even wished you good luck! Oh, how sweet."

Allison coldly grasped Rebecca's wrist. "Rebecca, don't overthink it. He's just an acquaintance. Relax. You're still my favorite."

Rebecca's eyes sparkled mischievously. "Of course I am! I'm the boss here."

Their playful banter would have amused anyone, but for Colton, it was a trigger. He couldn't contain his rising jealousy and rage. The moment Kellan disappeared, Colton's anger erupted. Even with Melany clinging to his arm, he spun around, his eyes burning with accusation.

"It's obvious you and Kellan have a history. How long have you been on good terms? Why does he still support you?" His grip on Melany tightened, his gaze fixed on Allison. "No wonder you're so cocky lately. You've found a replacement, haven't you?"

Colton's voice grated on Allison's nerves, bringing on a headache. She gave him a freezing look. "There's nothing between me and Kellan! What about you and Melany? Everyone knows you've never been apart. Frankly, this whole thing disgusts me! And for the record, we're divorced. You have no right to dictate my actions."

Her icy detachment was clear. Those nearby whispered. Rebecca, never one to mince words, smiled. "Exactly! You're nothing but a stain on Allison's life. Can you please stop lurking around like a bad smell? You're not fooling anyone with that pathetic act." She rolled her eyes dramatically. "So stop playing these games to get Allison's attention. This charade ends now." She theatrically covered her nose. "Allison, let's go! I'm starting to stink just being near this trash."

Colton was speechless, watching as the two women walked away, a sharp pain constricting his chest. His grip on Melany tightened, making her shudder. The jealousy burning inside him was uncontainable. How could Allison continue to command his attention?

"Don't worry, Colton," Melany cooed, trying to reassure him. "Let's focus on what matters. I'll do everything to get into the top ten. Once we get that partnership with the Everett Group, nothing will stand in our way!" Her words were filled with determination as she squeezed his hand.