Chapter 18

Nathaniel felt this way because he knew nothing of what transpired between Lily and Rebirth.

Lily shook her head. "I didn't."

"That's great. Since you didn't sign a contract with La Beauté, we can still fix this. They're manipulating you. I'm already being kind by not suing Rebirth for slander."

Relieved, Nathaniel patted Lily's arm. "Lily, you're too naive for the complexities and underhandedness of the business world. This is for your own good. We don't want you involved in this mess."

"Let Mel and I handle this. You can focus on making perfumes. Don't you love creating new scents? Wouldn't that be wonderful?"

Lily looked at him. He had gaslighted her, manipulating her into working for them without reward. Even now, they wanted her to take the blame. Yet, they plausibly claimed it was for her benefit. If she admitted to stealing formulas and job-hopping, she'd be humiliated and ruined in the industry. Nathaniel wanted her to confess to protect MN Inc. and Melanie's reputation, while destroying hers. This would leave Lily completely at his mercy. It was all too convenient! How calculating he was!

"Will MN Inc. recover if I admit my mistake? You won't blame me, will you?" Lily asked nervously.

Nathaniel was satisfied. This was the Lily he knew—always prioritizing his feelings. How could she betray him?

"Don't worry. Someone clearly influenced you, so you're not to blame. We should blame those who acted with malice," Nathaniel said warmly, gently hugging her shoulders. "It's okay, don't be afraid. Mel and I will be with you at the press conference. Everything will be alright. We're here for you!"

Lily nodded, suppressing her disgust and resentment. "I'll let you handle it." Melanie watched them jealously, wanting to pull them apart. The bigger picture demanded patience for now.

Once Lily left, Melanie unleashed her anger. "Are you infatuated with her?! How could you believe her?! Did you believe Rebirth manipulated her? How did they know about our relationship? Why would they tell her?"

"Whether Rebirth told her about us is unclear, but she's definitely suspicious," Nathaniel said, picking up a cigarette.

He lit it, narrowed his eyes, and smoked. "It doesn't matter. The priority is to let things cool down."

"Hmph!" Melanie sneered. "Will she do as you say? Don't forget how eloquent she was last night. Aren't you afraid she'll do it again at the press conference?" Although she thought Lily foolish, something felt wrong. "She doesn't dare!" Nathaniel shook his head, exhaling smoke. "Even if she does, I have countermeasures. She's not that intelligent. Yesterday was probably a misunderstanding."