Chapter 313: After slipping into more formal attire, Mny and Colton settled into their seats, neither wearing a smile on their faces.


    Colton, we absolutely have to get that badge, Mny said, taking a deep breath as if bracing for a storm.


    Lets endure this for now.


    Once we secure it at the auction, there will be plenty of ways to handle Allison and her men.


    Colton pressed his fingers to his temple, his eyes squeezed shut.


    Yeah.


    Irritation simmered beneath his skin.


    Every time Allison entered the picture, it felt as if his control slipped right through his fingers.


    His eyelid twitched, a telltale sign that trouble was brewing.


    Meanwhile, Allison had her eyes on the two of them.


    She nced over at Sherman, her expression thoughtful.


    Keep an eye on them.


    If they make any moves, let me know.


    Allison had developed a habit from her profession: whenever she entered a new space, her instinct was to locate all exits and observe the ebb and flow of people.


    That instinct was how she immediately noticed them.


    Sherman nodded inpliance.


    Yes.


    It wasnt until he spoke that he realized the realityhis actual boss was Ken, yet he had instinctively followed Allisons directive.


    Instead of a mere unconscious response, it was Allisons natural authority thatmanded respect.


    Fortunately, Ken didnt seem to mind it.


    Not far away, Ferdinand frowned slightly.


    The charity g is open to anyone, but I certainly dont recall extending an auction invitation to those two.


    Unless, of course, the invitation had been passed along or acquired through less-than-reputable means.


    But rather than raise any rms, Ferdinand subtly gestured to one of his men.


    Find out how Colton and Mny got their invitation.


    Understood.


    Mny sat down, gently massaging Coltons bruised wrist with a concerned expression.


    Colton, dont worry.


    Ive got everything mapped out.


    Soon, well snag that badge.


    Then, Mny implied something deeper.


    And dont stress about the moneyIve got enough saved up.


    Even if youre short on funds right now, I wont let you lose face.


    You only need to cover the deposit for now.


    Coltons face stiffened, still reeling from his earlier embarrassment.


    From a mans perspective, relying on a womans money felt like a blow to his pride.


    Yet, having faced his grandfathers scolding, hispany hanging by a thread, and his mother constantly nagging for financial support, Colton found it hard to turn her down.


    Thanks.


    I really appreciate it.


    Frustration churned inside Colton as he considered his recent woes.


    He felt trapped, like a lion in a cage, unsure how to shake off his pent-up irritation.


    Since his divorce, nothing seemed to go his way, but Mnys considerate words helped ease his tension just a notch.


    For once, Colton felt a flicker of guilt.


    He shouldnt have doubted Mny, nor should he have kept dwelling on Allison.


    Pulling Mny into an embrace, he kissed her forehead tenderly and said, Sweetheart, I love you.


    Youre even willing to dip into your parents finances to help me out.


    Not like someone else, who wouldnt lift a finger to save me.


    The thought of Allisons cold indifference sent a sharp pang through Colton, especially in his injured fingers.


    He truly felt like a dark cloud hung over him.


    He had never encountered a woman as callous as her.


    Colton, you really dont need to keep thanking me.


    After all, we are family, Mny said with a soft smile.


    As long as I can help you, thats all that matters.


    Of course, after they secured the badge, Mny had her own ns in mind.


    As for the money, once Colton paid the deposit, Mny would conveniently im her card was frozen.


    What could he do thenjust walk away? It was easy for her to y this game, making sure it worked to her advantage.


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