Chapter 65
“Let’s fight then,” Melanie said dismissively. “We have enough evidence—I’ve already copied all the information—and a professional legal team. Why should we be afraid of her?”
Gesturing to her hand, she said, “See? My hand is swollen and painful! Why would I work this hard if it weren’t for her? Nate, we must ensure she doesn’t have the upper hand. You must teach her a lesson this time! How could she treat you like this?”
Nathaniel pushed Melanie away as she leaned toward him. He wasn’t in the mood; he wasn’t as optimistic as she was. “I keep feeling she has a trick up her sleeve. Why else would she insist on going to court when she knows all the evidence is in my hands?”
Melanie was stunned but shook her head. “Impossible. You’re overthinking this. What trick could Lily have? We have the data, and the other employees are completely unfamiliar with her. I was right to keep her in the lab and prevent her from frequently visiting headquarters. It’s all over the internet that she’s a jealous third wheel who stole company secrets. What are you afraid of? We have everything!”
“Things aren’t that simple. You should know she developed all our company’s products.”
“You just think you can’t lose her, right?” Melanie interjected. “If you like her so much, then go to her. I’ll leave. I’ll leave right now!”
Seeing Melanie’s distress, Nathaniel pulled her into his arms. “What are you talking about? That’s not what I mean. Would I be in this situation if I liked her? Who am I doing all this for, my little vixen?”
He coaxed her, planting gentle kisses on her cheek. Melanie turned and kissed him passionately. They pulled apart only after a long while. She lay softly in his arms. “I don’t like you mentioning her. She’s claimed you for years. I’m jealous. Why can’t I be jealous?”
“Alright, I know you’re jealous, but now’s not the right time. Mel, there’s been no new product since ‘First Love,’ and the employees are talking. You’re the director of R&D; it’s time you came up with something fresh.”
Melanie hesitated. It wasn’t a lack of knowledge; she simply hadn’t worked on perfumes for years, having delegated the work to Lily. She knew the basics, but creating perfumes required experience, inspiration, and ideas. Her thoughts were consumed with staying by Nathaniel’s side, winning his heart, marrying the president of MN Inc., and becoming a wealthy man’s wife. How could she find time for perfume creation? This was all Lily’s fault. If Lily hadn’t caused such a fuss, Melanie wouldn't be forced into this.
“Don’t force me!” Melanie said, turning her head in annoyance.
Nathaniel hugged her from behind. “I’m not forcing you, but I’m under pressure. Do you understand? Instead of fighting the lawsuit, we can win by creating a successful new perfume. There’s a product exhibition in Paris—and hasn’t it been a long time since you vacationed? We’ll release the new product there. We can enjoy our time while boosting the company. Afterward, we’ll get married and go to Europe for our honeymoon. What do you say?”
Melanie could almost see the bright future he painted, but it was easier said than done. How could creating a hot-selling product be so easy? She hadn’t practiced in years and lacked inspiration. Even if she had an idea, she wasn’t sure she could achieve the desired result with her rusty skills.
“What’s wrong? Are you feeling insecure? Don’t worry. Olivia’s been by Lily’s side for years and has experience. You can ask her for help.”