Frank mocked her, but Melanie ignored him and got straight to the point. "I'm here with a business proposal."

"A business proposal? You?" Frank snickered, unconvinced. "If I remember correctly, you don't have enough money to do business with me. Besides, what kind of deal could you possibly offer? You haven't even fulfilled your last promise."

He was losing patience. If this were the old Melanie, she would have softened her tone, tried to coax him, or even begged. This time, however, she was desperate, so she had nothing to lose.

Melanie replied, "You didn't keep your word either. You promised to help me enter this year's perfume championship and win. However, the formula you gave me was flawed!"

"I've already compensated you, haven't I? What more do you want?" Frank questioned heatedly.

"Right, you 'compensated' me, but you've ruined me! Nathaniel knows about us now; he's rejected me and kicked me out of MN Inc.! How can I enter the championship now? How am I supposed to build a career? This is all your fault!" she accused furiously.

Frank smiled calmly. "Mel, how can you say that? It was consensual, wasn't it? And as for my promise, didn't I give you the formula? You're qualified for the championship. Besides, I hear MN Inc. submitted their registration, which was approved. We just need to wait for judging. If Nathaniel won't use your name, that's his problem. You should confront him, not me."

"Don't worry. I'll settle things with Nate. However, I've done so much for you. Shouldn't you give me something in return?" Melanie said.

Frank smirked. "What do you want?"

"I heard about a huge perfume sampling event next week in Westwood. I want you to take me." She knew this event would attract representatives from large corporations and famous perfumers, including Lily, representing Rebirth.

While not as significant as the championship, this event held considerable industry prestige and was exclusive due to strict participation requirements. Melanie was consumed with jealousy. Why did Lily have everything, and she nothing? She wouldn't accept it.

Frank laughed uncontrollably, scattering cigarette ashes. "Mel, are you serious? Do you know the kind of people who attend? Do you think you could get in with your current status?" He sneered. "Honestly, very few perfumers from this country even qualify."

"I know! But you're qualified, so take me!" Melanie insisted.

Frank was well-known in the industry. She wasn't sure about his international standing, but she was certain he qualified.

He extinguished his cigarette. "You're right. I'm qualified, and I've been invited. Why should I bring you? Give me one good reason."

"Lily will be there," Melanie paused. "It's difficult to get to her here, but it's different abroad. I can help you get revenge and ensure she doesn't escape!"

Frank considered the offer. It was tempting. After a moment, he decided, "Deal!"