Chapter 42
Melanie sifted through the clothes on the rack and quickly picked out an outfit for Julia. “Julia, go try this on,” she urged.
julla hesitated. With her darker complexion, she wasn’t used to wearing such bright colors.
“What are you waiting for? Go on! Melanie encouraged.
Julia took the outfit into the fitting room and emerged a moment later.
Melanie directed her to the mirror. Julia’s outfit–a light brown blouse paired with black pants–was flattering, making her complexion appear fairer.
Julia was amazed the moment she looked into the mirror. She had only ever wom black, and seeing herself dressed like this was a revelation. She felt revitalized. “Melanie, how much is this outfit? I want to get it!” she declared,
Melanie waved her hand dismissively.
“Don’t talk about money. I’m serious–this outfit is a gift for everything you’ve done for me today. If you see something you like in the future, just come by and take it. You don’t have to pay for them.”
Although she didn’t have much money at the moment, she was generous at heart,
Julia
recognized Melanie’s character and accepted her offer with a smile, not insisting on paying.
Melanie then chose a pink dress for herself and changed into it. Julia couldn’t help but stare in awe,
The soft pink fabric hugged Melanie’s figure perfectly, and with the accessories she had chosen, including a pink hair clip, she looked effortlessly youthful–like a high school girl
Jalla was completely impressed. Melanie had a knack for fashion that was hard to ignore.
Initially, Melanie had planned to close up the shop and head home after such a busy day. She didn’t want to keep it open any longer and planned to come in early tomorrow to open it.
However, two more women walked in just as she was about to lock the door. Their eyes widened at the
sight of Melanie in her dress.
When they learned the price was 200 dollars, they hesitated, but after trying it on and seeing the quality, they decided to splurge.
Melanie managed to make 400 dollars from the two dresses, knowing that she had only paid about 50 dollars for each. That was a nice profit!
She added, “I’ll throw in a hair clip for each of you as a gift to match your new dresses!”
Initially reluctant to spend, the two women beamed at the surprise gift and happily left with their purchases.
Julla was left in awe. She thought, “This was really lucrative.
“It’s no surprise that Edward’s wife isn’t just anyone. Even if she grew up in the countryside, she’s clearly exceptional.
“It makes sense why he agreed to this marriage. He must have seen just how special Melanie is ”
After closing up the store, Julia drove Melanie back to the neighborhood’s main entrance before saying her goodbyes.
A wave of happiness washed over Melanie as she stepped out of the car in her pink dress. That day had been a promising start, and she sensed that she would soon be raking in profits.
She entered the main entrance while humming a tune. But just as she did, she heard someone call out behind her.
Η
, miss! Could you please hold on?”
Melanie glanced around, realizing no one else was nearby. Turning back, she was surprised to see it was one of the three men she had encountered in the neighboring city.
The man was tall and muscular, his close–cropped hair giving him an imposing presence.
“Were you calling me?” she asked.
“Yeah. Do you live in this neighborhood?” he replied, looking at her with surprise and curiosity.
Melanie besitated for a moment but nodded. “Yes, I do,
“What’s up? Is there something you need?” she inquired.
Tanner smirked. “I low this might seem a bit out of the blue, but I have to ask are you dating anyone?” His question raught Melanie off guard, and even Edward, who was standing behind him, was taken aback

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