Chapter 228

"No! There are too many people at the lab, and they'll see you. Even if the perfume is a success and I use it to enter the competition, the organizing committee might use our relationship as an excuse to disqualify me," Melanie said, frowning.

She moaned in frustration. "Can't you just try to fix it without following me into the lab? Why don't I bring the failed samples for you to look at?"

Frank nodded. "Sure, I can do that. However, the results might not be optimal. Either I'll be able to figure out what's wrong in one go, or this might take longer—maybe more than ten tries."

This was going nowhere. If she rejected Frank's offer to come with her, he might not be able to figure out what was wrong. Then the perfume would fail, and Melanie couldn't participate in the competition.

On the other hand, if she allowed Frank into the lab, she risked disqualification; the organizers could use their relationship as evidence of cheating. Melanie's frustration grew as she pinched the bridge of her nose.

Frank looked at her and said slowly, "I've got an idea. It depends on whether you're willing to take the risk."

"What is it?" she asked. She was willing to do anything.

"If I remember correctly, you're in charge of the lab, right?" he asked. Even though she rarely showed up, she was still the director. Melanie nodded. "Of course. I'm the research director, after all!"

Frank smiled. "Then you get to decide when we can go into the lab."

"You're saying we could…"

"We'll get caught because too many people are in the lab during the day. So, why don't we just go at night?" Frank stopped and smiled wickedly at Melanie. She instantly understood. It felt like a knot had been untied in her brain. Many people went in and out of the lab during the day, but most left after working hours.

Since she had access, bringing Frank wasn't a problem. They could fix the formula, and Frank could even start producing the perfume independently. With his help, the process would be smooth, ensuring success and awards. However, as Melanie met Frank's gaze, her heart fluttered nervously. She still had concerns, especially about being alone with him.

"I'm just suggesting this. You decide. I'm more than happy if you would help me sleep well tonight," Frank announced, placing his hands behind his head, unconcerned. "You better hurry if you desperately need my help," he reminded her.

Melanie was silent for a moment. She clenched her fist, weighed the pros and cons, and nodded solemnly. "All right! We'll do it tonight. I'll bring you to the lab, and you'll help me fix the problem. This perfume must be successful!"

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