Chapter 64

Lucas shook his head. "I'm not sure about that, but Ms. Christian's tone was steadfast. We can almost guarantee victory based on the evidence. Therefore, Mr. Hall, you don't need to worry too much."

Nathaniel remained distraught. How could he not be? The lawyer's confidence stemmed from superficial evidence. Nathaniel knew the company's success over the years was due to Lily's efforts. Why was she so resolute? He felt trapped. If he couldn't change the course of events, everyone at MN Inc. would face a protracted legal battle.

Lily should know she had no chance of winning, yet she refused to yield. Was her confidence fueled by Rebirth, or did she possess a hidden advantage? He was at a loss. "Understood. When will the court session begin?"

"Next week."

"Get ready. Also, call Lily again. Tell her we can settle this out of court, for old times' sake. Use a roundabout approach. Understand?"

"Yes, but" Lucas looked confused.

"You can leave," Nathaniel said. Lucas departed, still harboring doubts.

Melanie entered immediately afterward, without knocking—a habit consistent with her status as the CEO's fiancée, despite her nominal title as R&D director. Recent gossip had fueled office speculation. Her arrival sparked a flurry of whispered conversations.

"Hey, did you see the online news? About the CEO and his fiancée?"

"Who's the CEO's fiancée?"

"Melanie, obviously. Need I say more?"

"I saw it. Something about a woman who came between a long-term couple, stole confidential information, and then left. She's"

"Lily!"

"That's right! Isn't she an employee here? A technician?"

"Yes, that Lily. She seemed lovely. I never would have guessed. I saw her acting…questionable…with the CEO once, but I never expected this."

"Questionable? They were supposedly getting married! I'm surprised Melanie wasn't furious."

"Married?!" A collective gasp. "Yes! I overheard Lily and Mr. Hall discussing their marriage certificate."

"What?! Tell me everything! Will this change things?"

A group of employees engaged in a lively WhatsApp exchange. The gossip, especially concerning someone so visible within the company, fueled intense excitement. Melanie, in Nathaniel's office, noticed their furtive glances and closed the blinds, irritated.

'Bunch of trash!'

Melanie snuggled up to Nathaniel. "Nate, you haven't taken me out lately. I've been feeling cooped up."

Nathaniel sighed, taking a gulp of coffee. "Are you serious? Don't you know about the lawsuit? Lily's determined to fight this."