Chapter 14

Melanie ignored Nathaniel's incessant calls after hanging up. Annoyed by the persistent ringing, she finally switched off her phone. The disturbance made it difficult to sleep, so she went to the small square window. It was a stark contrast to the floor-to-ceiling windows of the presidential suite, with its breathtaking city view.

The small window framed her life, a life she now foresaw stretching ahead. She felt trapped, realizing she could no longer rely on Nathaniel; he couldn't give her what she wanted. Ultimately, she knew she could only depend on herself. Years of devotion to Nathaniel meant nothing. She remembered Lily's unwavering dedication to him, a dedication that had ultimately left Lily old and unattractive. Melanie feared a similar fate.

"Nate might replace me," she thought, a chilling premonition. A shiver ran down her spine, despite the closed window.

Hugging herself, she looked at the ceiling, biting her lip. A decision solidified in her heart. After showering, she donned her sexiest pajamas, applied makeup, and threw on a coat. "At least I've maintained my figure," she muttered, admiring herself in the mirror. "I still look beautiful."

She ordered a bottle of red wine and used her access card to take the elevator up. She easily found Frank's room—a room she'd long dreamed of occupying—its location etched in her memory. Initially unsure of Frank's capabilities and influence, that night had changed her perspective. He was a VIP guest, specially invited to the event, and had intervened when others pressured her onstage. His fame was such that he could make her the center of attention with a single sentence; conversely, he could just as easily diminish her. Frank, with his considerable power, was infinitely preferable to the useless Nathaniel.

While Frank wouldn't promise marriage or love, he could make her the industry's top perfumer. The fame and fortune he offered were unparalleled. With wealth and fame, love, marriage, and any man she desired would quickly follow.

This conclusion banished her worries and uncertainty. Frank opened the door almost immediately after she rang the bell, surprising her; she'd expected a wait. He stood in a loose robe, his eyes revealing a clear desire. This time, she didn't avoid his gaze. Lifting her bottle of wine, she offered a seductive smile. "Hey, I've figured things out," she purred. Frank smiled, clearly pleased.