Initially, Colton wondered why Allison had hidden her talent for three years. He now understood it wasn't about concealment, but her insistence that he remain, in her eyes, merely a housewife. He was confused by his own feelings, and a sudden urge to flee prompted him to provoke Allison.

"No matter how hard you try to imitate Melany, you'll never overshadow her."

She'd made similar jabs before. Each time, Allison retreated quietly, sometimes showing a flicker of sadness. Colton expected the same this time, hoping it would break through her composure and elicit an emotional response—even anger.

But Allison remained unnervingly calm, treating him like a stranger.

“Indeed, no matter what I’ve done these past three years, you’ve hated it all. You never really saw me, whether I was an orphan or a prominent figure. You hated me just the same. And now, I feel the same way about you.”

Allison had reached a point of acceptance, letting go of her childhood obsessions.

“Colton, if you’d just stand your ground and stop clinging to me, maybe I’d respect your persistence. Why the pathetic act now? It makes me sick.”

Her frigid words struck Colton like a dagger.

Rebecca nodded. “Exactly! Why are you clinging on like a lost puppy?” she laughed. “Seeing you like this, one might think you’re still in love with Allison. If you continue ignoring Melany, she might end up heartbroken! And with Allison being so remarkable, even if you wanted to pursue her, you’d have to bury that thought. But what would your little mistress do then? She can’t even convincingly play the other woman.”

Rebecca's barbs were cutting. Immediately, the already humiliated Melany began to cry.

“Colton, if you still have feelings for Allison, I will step aside so you two can be together,” Melany said, her voice trembling. “Lastly, believe it or not, I’ve never intended to take anything. I’ve simply followed my heart in search of true love.” Melany turned and walked away, seemingly ready to end things.

Only then did Colton realize he’d been neglecting Melany. He shouted, “Melany, wait!” But she was gone.

Colton turned to Allison, fury etched on his face.

“Are you doing this on purpose? Did you think acting tough would make me fall in love with you? Keep dreaming. I know you acted pitifully towards me before, just to create this contrast. Although you’ve certainly caught my attention, don’t think for a second you can take Melany from me!”

He ran after Melany. Allison shook her head.

“What a fool.”

In that moment, she realized how foolish she’d been to marry him. Colton was a complete jerk. She even agreed with Rebecca's assessment of his character.

Watching them chase each other, Rebecca looked at Allison questioningly.

“Are you sure Colton doesn’t have some kind of mental problem?”

“Now I’m sure they will be together,” Allison sighed in relief. “Let them be together and never bother me again.”