Chapter 395

Back in Cyntia University, Melina followed Talia back to the dormitory. As soon as they entered, Talia locked the door behind them, ensuring that this conversation would go unheard by anyone else. Melina stood there, not bothering to sit down, and said, "Spill it. What is it?" Her demeanor suggested that she would leave after just a couple of sentences. Noticing Melina's impatience, Talia stiffened slightly. In the past, Melina had been very patient. Even when dealing with someone unreasonable like Lyla, she could still go into discussions with her for long hours. Realizing that Melina's attitude toward her had changed, Talia felt an inexplicable discomfort in her heart. Earlier in the morning, after discussing those matters, Melina's attitude remained unchanged. Could it be because she had just smashed her phone? Talia reiterated, "I've already said I will compensate you for your phone. It's not a big deal." Despite Talia's insistence, Melina showed no extra patience, coldly replying, "If there's nothing else, I'll take my leave." Talia grew slightly annoyed. "Wait!" Melina looked at Talia indifferently. Talia felt a surge of irritation but continued, "It is still that matter that we talked about this morning. Please don't rush to refuse me. I know you're short on money. The Pierce family can help you. Just tell me how much you need to be willing to do us this favor." After re-evaluating her thoughts, Talia dismissed her previous understanding of Melina. She believed she had figured Melina out. Even after marrying into the Wentworth family, she still lacked money, which could only mean that Melina wasn't using the Wentworth family funds. The reason is that it must be about saving face. Was it that she wanted Andrew to think her lofty, believing she didn't covet the Wentworth family's riches? Now that she was directly offering benefits, Talia could hardly believe that Melina would refuse. After all, Melina was someone with her eyes set on money. Melina looked into Talia's eyes and asked, "So, is this how you perceive me?" Talia found herself momentarily unable to meet Melina's gaze and shifted her eyes away. "I meant no offense. I just need you to help with a small task. It won't require you to do anything illegal—just a bidding process. It's a favor. Why not extend it to the Pierce family?" The expression in Melina's eyes shifted multiple times. From initial fondness to awkwardness, then disappointment, and now her gaze was as cold as that of a stranger. "Talia Pierce, I will say this one last time. I won't get involved in Andrew's business. Please go through official channels if you want to collaborate with the Wentworth family." Melina had called her Talia in the past. Being gentle and affectionate with female friends had always been her way. But this time, she had addressed Talia by her full name. It wasn't the sweet tone reserved for Andrew but rather one that added an invisible distance. "Melina! Just tell me how much you want. Is five million enough?" Talia threw a figure out. Melina turned to leave. Seeing that Melina was about to walk out, Talia grew anxious. The bid was about to begin, and her family had urged her countless times. If she couldn't settle it soon, it would be too late. She reasoned that although Melina was poor, having been beside Andrew, she must have seen wealth. Continuing to grit her teeth, she said, "What about 20 million!" Melina showed no hesitation and reached for the door. "50 million! That's the most I can offer. Melina, do you know what 50 million means? It's money you couldn't possibly earn, no matter how hard you work or how well your side business grows. You could do anything with this amount and even stand proudly beside Andrew." Melina turned back. "Talia, our friendship ends here. If you approach me again regarding matters with the Wentworth family, I will inform Andrew directly. He has a temper, and once he takes action against your family, I doubt you would want to witness the consequences."