Melody walked up to Theda, gently patting her hand. "Theda has always been a well-mannered, sensible girl. I won''t let you corrupt her."


    Her favoritism toward Theda was written all over her face. But both Theda and Debra knew it was all for show.


    The truth was that Melody and Theda were distant rtives who barely had any connection over the years. It was impossible for such affection toe at first sight. Everything boiled down to interest. Theda subtly pulled her hand away and smiled politely. "It''s fine, Melody. It''s just a chat with Mrs. Houston."


    "It''s not that simple," Melody said. "You''re the heiress to the Buchan family and a guest here. Debra is a schemer, bent on taking over our family''s assets. I won''t let her brainwash you."


    Then she turned to Debra. "You''d better leave before I throw you out."


    "You misunderstood," Debra said, sitting down o