Chapter 408

Besides Lily, Nathaniel was also unaware of what had happened. He only knew that Melanie and Frank had left for Westwood. Melanie had stopped speaking to him since her affair with Frank was exposed, and Nathaniel hadn't attempted to find out more. Truth be told, he hadn't cared—until MN Inc.'s new products were involved. Since they were still together at the time, the two fragrances were released under Melanie's name. Even if she had cheated, it wouldn't have mattered as long as the perfumes qualified for the perfume championship. Nathaniel had weighed his options and decided to keep her products, but Alexander's news changed everything.

"What do you mean? How is Mel a mastermind behind a kidnapping? That's impossible!"

Though no longer involved with Melanie, he was confident he knew her well enough to know she wouldn't do such a thing. While Melanie was manipulative and materialistic, he believed she wouldn't commit serious crimes like kidnapping or covering up for a drug addict. "Who was the drug addict, anyway?" Nathaniel wondered.

Alexander said mockingly, "Instead of worrying about things that don't concern you, pay more attention to international news—especially industry news. Whether you listen is up to you; it's just some friendly advice."

"Shall we leave?" Alexander asked Lily, his gaze gentle as it landed on her. His attention was solely on her; nothing else seemed to matter. There was no reason for Lily to stay. Alexander's presence proved, better than any explanation or rejection, that she wouldn't return to Nathaniel. Lily saw the shock on Nathaniel's face.

"Okay," Lily nodded, standing under Alexander's watchful care. He placed his coat around her and left, ignoring the still-stunned Nathaniel.

After a few steps, Alexander turned. "By the way, at least have the decency to pay the bill. You invited Lily, after all, right?"

Lily was surprised; she'd thought he had something important to say to Nathaniel. She almost burst out laughing at his remark, stifling her laughter until they reached the downstairs. Alexander glanced at her. "Just laugh if you want to."

Lily finally erupted, laughing so hard tears welled in her eyes.

Alexander asked gently, "My appearance delighted you that much, huh? If I knew you'd be this happy, I would have appeared sooner, or maybe I should do that next time?"

Lily shook her head. "I thought you'd pay for the meal." She knew Alexander was generous, and the meal was nothing to him.

"He asked you out, so why should I pay? He should be grateful I didn't order more," Alexander smirked.

He was right, and Lily chuckled, imagining Nathaniel's expression upon having to pay. Alexander knew exactly how to irritate people.

"What about Melanie's case? I thought you said you weren't involved?" Lily asked, giving him an "I know you were" look.