After being discharged from the hospital, Melanie discovered that Nathaniel had stripped her of her director title. Even though he was hospitalized, his staff promptly carried out his orders, even taking away Melanie's office.
Everyone at MN Inc. knew Melanie was the CEO's fiancée. However, she never imagined this happening. Before she could marry the CEO, her title vanished. Although the staff wouldn't discuss it openly, they cast furtive glances at her. Melanie felt ridiculed and was furious at Nathaniel's heartlessness. She quickly gathered her belongings and left.
Moments later, Nathaniel's secretary called: "Mr. Hall, Director… M-Ms. Thayer came to the office, but she left after discovering you've taken away her title and office."
"That's fine. Don't worry about it," Nathaniel replied calmly. While he didn't want to be cruel—they had been a couple—she wasn't suitable for the position. Keeping her as director would only create a liability and awkwardness.
Moreover, he knew Melanie was ambitious. Her relationship with Frank indicated she wouldn't be satisfied as MN Inc.'s director. She craved fame and fortune, aiming to become a world-renowned perfumer. Given the opportunity, she would leave Nathaniel to pursue greater heights. Her ambition was understandable, but she was unaware of her limitations. Other industries might be more lenient, but the perfume industry was unforgiving. Without demonstrable skill, one would not succeed.
After hanging up, Nathaniel made another call: "Hello, do you have the results I requested?"
After leaving MN Inc., Melanie went to Frank's hotel. Frank was supposed to leave Sapphire City, but his injury had delayed his departure. Melanie knocked on his door. Seeing her, he pulled her inside, pressed her against the doorframe, and kissed her.
Melanie pushed him away. She refused to submit or engage in casual intimacy. She was determined to reject him. Stepping back, Frank frowned, "What's the meaning of this?"
"I just had surgery, and my body hasn't fully recovered," Melanie explained.
"Stop making excuses!" Frank, unconcerned with her well-being, only cared about getting his way. He was self-centered and callous, behaving like a beast.
Melanie quickly moved away, producing pepper spray. "If you don't stop, I'll hurt you! I'm here to talk, not sleep with you!"
Frank was surprised by her forceful rejection, having known her for so long. Stunned, but quickly recovering, he looked at her with renewed interest. He lit a cigarette, "Fine. What do you want? I'm sure it's not pillow talk."