Chapter 83
e with a smile when the latter approached. She was now aware of the reason why Melanie was learning the piano and admired her
Ana greeted Melanie
determination.
Despite her humble origins, Melanie wasn’t content with mediocrity. Even while she was pregnant, she remained eager to learn.
Moreover, Anna heard from Leah that Melanie might even be a prodigy since the latter was learning the piano at a speed that was dozens of times faster than her own progress back then.
Anna, who valued talent, had gone from initially disregarding Melanie and feeling disdain to welcoming her warmly–all in just a few short weeks. “Leah is busy today, so I’ll be teaching you.”
Melanie was fine with it, saying, “Thanks, Anna. I know I’ve been imposing on you guys a lot recently.”
She felt a bit bad about it. Anna was just a relative by marriage, but she had generously given them a used car and gave her piano lessons daily.
If they had no connections, who wouldn’t find all this burdensome?
“We’re family. There’s no need to be so formal. Besides, you’re doing all you can for Edward.”
After they chatted, Anna began her lesson while Melanie focused all her attention on the piano.
They practiced the entire afternoon. By the end, even Anna was astonished by Melanie’s progress. At this rate, Melanie would be able to perform a complete piece in less than two weeks.
If she were to accompany Edward to formal events in the future, she might not necessarily knock everyone’s socks off, but at least she wouldn’t become an embarrassment.
Just as Melanie was about to leave, she suggested, “Anna, you know about my boutique, right? The outfit I’m wearing now is from my store.
“If you’re interested, I’d love for you to come by. I’ll personally pick out a few outfits for you.”
Anna had long noticed Melanie’s bright and stylish outfit. She h
Since Melanie brought it up now, Anna smiled and replied, “Sure. I haven’t been there. I’d be happy to support your business.”
had been meaning to ask about it but had gotten distracted.
With that, Anna drove Melanie to the boutique. The moment she stepped out of the car, she was surprised.
She had expected Melanie’s boutique to be a small, casual venture but was impressed by how professionally it was run.
They walked inside and saw Julia, who was busy helping a customer. Melanie gestured for Julia to continue while the former started picking out two
outfits for Anna.
Anna had that strong, career–wornan vibe. After applying her makeup, she gave off an air of confidence and authority, especially with her bold red lipstick
Melanie selected a vibrant red dress for A
Anna-
-a daring color that few wore then. Still, it looked stunning on her.
When Anna tried it on, even she was surprised by her reflection. She realized that Melanie was quite competent at whatever she set her mind to “This looks good. I’ll take all of these. Let me know the total bill.”
Melanie shook her head. “How could I possibly charge you, Anna? Consid
Consider these outfits a gift,”
Anna wanted to turn her down. “Oh, that won’t do. I can’t just accept something like this from you,”
In truth, Melanie had come to admire Anna. Although Anna initially looked down on Melanie, the latter didn’t think much of it.
After all, a successful woman like Anna would already be doing her a huge favor by taking the time to teach her the plang,
“If you insist on paying, I’ll feel upset. You’re one of Edward’s closest relatives and the elder I respect the most.
“You’ve already helped me so much. What kind of person would I be if I can’t even gift you a lew
outfits?”
Melanie always behaved with the utmost propriety. Even if she valued money, she knew when not to accept it. Anna might not mind paying, but declining the money would leave a good impression on her.
Melanie wasn’t as concerned with making a good impression on olliers, but Anna was diller connection was valuable.
“Alright then. Since you insist, I won’t fight you on it. I’ll take the clothes.”
“Oh, right. Take this one as well It’s for Leah. I picked it out just for her.”
different. She could potentially gain a lot from Anna, so their

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