Secrets Of The Neglected Wife: When Her True Colors Shine

Chapter 57: Melany's heart skipped a beat as she took in the words.

No way! Years ago, she had invested a fortune in tracking down Scarlet Serpent.

Everything pointed to the fact that Scarlet Serpent was an elusive figure in his sixties, someone who had disappeared from the spotlight.

Plus, at the time, Allison was nothing more than a penniless orphan stranded on a desert island.

There was no way she could afford to travel to Leswington to enter a big competition, let alone learn the art of perfumery.

I'm not Scarlet Snake, Melany admitted.

But I learned from her.

Over time, people began to confuse me with her, and it was impossible to clarify it.

She has been like a mentor to me.

I had to reveal it now.

There was no other option, with everyone watching.

If her carefully constructed facade collapsed here, it would be a disaster.

Melany tried to maintain her composure, avoiding looking at Colton beside her.

She dug her nails into her palms, using the pain to stay calm and resist Allison's provocation.

Allison said, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, feigning calm.

Don't go throwing wild accusations without evidence.

I respect my mentor too much to allow you to smear her name.

I have no idea why our perfumes share similarities, but let's not forget that Scarlet Snake won the first perfume competition when you were sixteen.

Forgive me, but back then, you were a destitute orphan.

There was no way you could afford to travel abroad, much less study the craft.

Her words stirred the crowd.

a country girl, someone far removed

high-end.

his thoughts

could remember, he had

as a young genius living up to the legend

had never flatly

Modesty, he thought.

admired her

back: the time Melany had saved him five years ago, the trust he

been based on

real Scarlet Serpent,

right," he finally snapped, his voice heavy with disdain,

Then you were nobody.

a plane ticket,

are, trying

liar, but too proud to admit

baseless accusations!

crowd parted to reveal an old man holding a

of the most respected names in the

presence silenced

had mentored countless perfumers, many of whom were now

are doubts about the results of our contest, Mack said, his

we have video recordings of

I've already

up straight, his face hard as he mocked

You heard it.

man like Mack Lloyd won't let a fraud like you stay

were you, I'd leave before things

it, Colton! Melany hissed, pulling on

No problem.

benefited from my perfume,

himself has

wouldn't care

get

Snake showed up, she

Just.

.