Chapter 110
Melanie playfully shook her waist. "Why won't you trust me?"
"If you don't want to go, then don't. I'm done arguing," Nathaniel said. He didn't want to endure Melanie's coquettish behavior and further arguments; it was his limit.
However, he also wanted to attend the Middle Valley conference, hearing that many industry professionals would be present. Beyond participation, Nathaniel aimed to recruit talented perfumers for MN Inc.
Lily's actions had severely hampered MN Inc., highlighting the importance of skilled personnel. He needed to bolster his team to withstand competition—the recent experience had been disastrous.
Furthermore, a problem with the essential oils required his constant presence at the company for repeated testing. The formula's accuracy was paramount, demanding his oversight. He couldn't be absent.
Still, Melanie's attendance would be beneficial, providing valuable experience. Though less qualified than Lily, Melanie was loyal. The pregnancy also seemed to bring her a sense of relief.
Nathaniel considered their future child, gazing at Melanie's still-flat abdomen. The thought of the tiny human within filled him with overwhelming joy, a feeling Melanie didn't entirely share. She wanted to enjoy herself and resented being constantly shadowed. She even wondered about Mr. Moreau's reaction to such close supervision. For now, though, they would proceed step by step.
Alexander didn't see Lily off. Fearful of being seen, she insisted on a taxi, even refusing her usual driver. Before leaving, perhaps to appease Alexander, she hugged him and quipped, "Absence makes the heart grow fonder. I'll be back soon, so don't miss me too much!"
"Likewise," Alexander replied, hugging her and pinching her waist playfully. "Hey!" Lily exclaimed. "That's not fair!" She hurried to the taxi and sped off to the airport, leaving Alexander to watch her go. Edward, stoic as ever, stepped forward. "Mr. Russell, are you sure you don't want to tell Mrs. Russell you're leaving, too?"
Alexander tilted his head, lazily replying, "That wouldn't be as much fun, would it?"
"W-well" Edward stammered. He knew little of his boss's playful side.
"Have you upgraded the seats?" Alexander asked, turning to go back inside. "Yes, and Ms. Gray's seat as well. I followed your instructions and told them this trip was essential to the company. I also explained it was a special arrangement," Edward replied. He'd delegated the task to George.
"Okay," Alexander said, a slight snort escaping him as he re-entered the house. Without Lily, it felt empty and desolate.