Chapter 17: Chapter 17

A delicate touch graced Edward’s forehead and nose.

Edward’s brows furrowed as he swiftly seized Melody’s wrist, his grip tightening with a subtle intensity. The bob of his Adam’s apple betrayed a tension that seemed more pronounced than usual.

This little temptress, attempting to ensnare me once more!

Melody’s heart pounded within her chest as she awkwardly recoiled, her eyes darting like a startled deer caught in the glare of headlights.

She had come close to kissing him but stopped short of touching his lips.

Her gaze trailed her thoughts, lingering on Edward’s thin lips. Upon closer scrutiny, she discerned a hint of moisture between them, akin to morning dew–tempting, alluring.

The intensity in Melody’s eyes hinted at a readiness to pounce.

“Melody, cease this,” Edward’s temple throbbed with exasperation. If she persisted, he might find himself tempted to throttle her to rid her of these tantalizing notions..

Edward regarded her sternly, his Adam’s apple bobbing twice before he lowered his eyelids to veil his emotions. His jaw clenched tightly as though he struggled to restrain himself.

“Mr. Moore, I–I didn’t mean to… to fall into your arms and nearly kiss you, Melody stammered.

“But, Mr. Moore, your skin is remarkably soft.

“And your taste isn’t unpleasant,” Melody deliberately murmured the last two sentences, her sweet scent wafting tantalizingly around Edward’s neck.

Edward’s joints stiffened, his grip on the wheelchair’s armrest tightening.

This little demon.

Were it not for your usefulness, I would’ve disciplined you!

Melody’s gaze casually swept over the familiar figure standing at the doorway–Old Madam Moore, the eldest member of the Moore family, who harbored a deep affection for Edward.

In Melody’s previous life, she had distanced herself from Edward and rebuffed Old Madam Moore’s kindness. She was determined not to repeat those mistakes; she couldn’t squander this divine assistance.

Melody seemed to panic as she struggled against Edward’s grip on her wrist. In her efforts to break free, she toppled backward, landing unceremoniously on the carpet.

The young girl pouted, gazing at Edward with an air of grievance. “Mr. Moore, I’m sorry; please don’t be angry, okay?”

“I promise to behave and sleep on the sofa tonight. I won’t disturb your rest.”

Her words were intentionally ambiguous, implying a familiarity that wasn’t present.

Edward looked on helplessly, sighing inwardly. This bra is always up to mischief

Old Madam Moore regarded them with astonishment. My, my, it’s only been a few days, and my grandson has made such progress?”

At this rate, could the birth of a great–grandchild be far off?

After a moment’s consideration, Old Madam Moore approached with dignity and gentleness, helping Melody to her feet. “My dear, fear not.”

“In the future, I shall stand by your side.”

“Tonight, rest assured, you shall share a bed with him. If he dares to mistreat you, simply inform me, and I shall see to it.”

Having finished, Old Madam Moore cast a fierce glare at Edward. “As for you, now that you’re married, you must treat your wife with kindness.”

“It’s not often a young lady takes a liking to you. Scare her off, and you’ll remain a bachelor for life!”

Edward’s jaw tightened as he drew a sharp breath: ‘Grandma, do you truly consider her my wife?”

The first six bridesmaids had fled, relieved to regain their freedom.

The seventh, originally meant to be Suzanna, had been replaced by Melody at the Shield family’s behest.

As far as Edward knew, Old Madam Moore had personally intervened to oust this impostor bride, Melody!

“Nonsense! Mel is beautiful with a fine figure. She harbors genuine affection for you and willingly married into the Moore family. I must thank her–do you have any objections to that?”

Edward swallowed a gulp and averted his eyes.

“Very well, tonight, I shall remain at the Moore Residence. You and Mel are now husband and wife; you ought to share a bed. I’ll be keeping an eye on you.”

Old Madam Moore was in high spirits.

Having conducted some preliminary research on Melody, she found the girl quite charming. Since no one in the Shield family seemed to possess good judgment, she, as the wise elder, would ensure Melody’s well- being.

As night fell, Old Madam Moore ushered the pair into the master bedroom, her lips curving in satisfaction.

Before departing, she offered a final piece of advice. “Mel, Eddie isn’t particularly experienced in matters of this nature. You may need to… make some allowances.”

Edward’s expression darkened. “Grandma, please refrain from such inappropriate thoughts.”