Chapter 349: That bracelet youre wearing isnt that the one Gordon spent all that money on? Colton staggered to his feet, his gaze fixed on the bracelet dangling from Allisons wrist.


    Hepletely missed the subtle mockery hidden beneath her otherwise expressionless face.


    He had sobered up earlier, but Mny was nowhere to be found.


    So, he ended up waiting outside the hall, his patience wearing thin.


    The sight of Allison emerging sote only fueled his irritation.


    I dont care about whatever arrangements youve made with those men, he continued, his voiceced with bitterness.


    You were right about one thing: since the divorce, I have no business meddling in your life.


    Colton let out a hollowugh.


    He had intended to confront her, but after everything that had happened today, the urge died in his throat.


    There was no point in asking questions when the answers would be meaningless now.


    But the truth was, despite everything, he needed her help.


    Allison had been prepared tosh out at him again, but something in his sudden calmness caught her attention.


    She studied him as if he were a puzzle she couldnt quite solve.


    So, youve been waiting here for me? she asked.


    Colton remained silent, the turmoil swirling in his chest.


    After a long, measured breath, he finally met her eyes.


    Yes, Ive been waiting for you.


    Not long ago, she had dered that they owed each other nothing anymore.


    Shortly after that, he had copsed spitting blood, fainting, likely from his injuries.


    Even now, his chest felt as if an invisible weight was pressing down on it, a burden he couldnt shake.


    Deep inside, a question gnawed at him: had she ever truly loved him during their three years together? If she had, why had she strayed into the arms of other men? But despite his desperate need for answers, he couldnt bring himself to ask.


    He could see it in her eyes: she no longer cared for him.


    The tenderness, the affection that once lit up her gaze when she looked at him, was gone.


    Now, her eyes were cold, indifferent.


    She looked at him like a piece of trash left too long on the curb.


    Could a person really change so much? Or had he shattered her heart beyond repair? Coltons fists clenched, his knuckles turning white.


    I told you about my mothers condition before, he said, his voice lower now.


    Her headaches are excruciating when they re up, and shes run out of the Soothing Capsules.


    Allison, I need your help.


    Can you introduce me to someone from Cobweb? His voice, usuallymanding, was surprisingly subdued, almost as if he were admitting defeat.


    But the truth was, this request was only half the story.


    Lately, Colton had felt his emotions spiraling out of control.


    Just being near Allison, even for a few moments, gave him a strange sense of calm, even though she was no longer his.


    He didnt mention that shed given those same Soothing Capsules to Ken before.


    Instead, he tried to sound reasonable, framing his request as a business proposition.


    Dont worry, Illpensate you generously.


    Money isnt the issue.


    But my mother cant endure much more of this.


    Whenever Lindys headaches red up, her anger erupted, affecting everyone around her.


    With Hackers World still not online and the MDH Pharmaceutical Research Institute overwhelmed with applicants, Coltons only chance of obtaining the capsulesy with Cobweb.


    The rain drizzled steadily outside, soaking Colton to the bone.


    He stood under the eaves, maintaining a respectful distance from Allison, as if they were strangers.


    No one would guess they had once shared a bed.


    Upon hearing his request, Allison retorted quickly and sharply.


    Colton, what makes you think throwing money around will get you an introduction to Cobweb? Her words cut through him like a de.


    And besides, you might not even keep your position.


    I have the Ruby Jade.


    Your half-siblings seem all too eager to knock you off your pedestal.


    The mention of his half-siblings struck a nerve, one Colton usually avoided.


    In the past, he would have flown into a rage at such a remark, but tonight, perhaps due to the alcohol, he simply let out a rough, self-deprecatingugh.


    Yeah, I suppose I havent fought hard enough for it.


    Allison propped her chin on her hand, her voice sharp and direct.


    Its not a question of effort.


    The truth is, youre just not capable enough.


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