Chapter 118: Breaking Your Bones

Melissa had been closely following the progress of the design competition. She received exclusive live video feeds from people at the exhibition hall. When she saw Aaron speak those words, her heart sank, knowing that things were not going well.

As expected, it didn't take long for Sarah to call her. "Sweetie, don't cry. Mommy will find a solution for you. Don't cry," Melissa comforted her daughter. There wasn't much she could do at this point. She had to take a step she had hoped to avoid, even if it meant dealing with someone she'd rather not.

She picked up her phone again and said, "If it's convenient, let's meet in person."

One hour later, at a café. Melissa glanced at him and said, "You know my purpose, and I know what you want. Let's discuss the terms."

Lionel, ever the straightforward one, quickly got up from his seat. "Sure!"

"In a nutshell, I don't want to see Elaine anymore!" Melissa's tone was so harsh that it took Lionel by surprise. He picked up his coffee cup. "This risk