Chapter 9

Unexpectedly, she took the initiative to confess. Everyone was stunned, including Nathaniel.

"Since Mr. Hall insists Ms. Thayner formulated First Love, she should know it inside and out. So, why won't Ms. Thayner tell me the difference between the two samples? What did I alter in the formula, and which ingredient did I change?"

Melanie's face paled. She hadn't been in a lab in two years. Even if she hadn't forgotten her knowledge, each perfume uses different formulas and raw materials; even the weight would vary slightly. She had spent her time with Nathaniel while Lily worked on First Love. What trophies or honors mattered as long as she was with him? Wasting time on First Love's data hadn't seemed worthwhile. She instinctively clutched Nathaniel's sleeve and pursed her lips.

Nathaniel, noticing her nervousness, stepped forward, protectively placing himself in front of her. "You were the one who tampered with the formula; how would Mel know what you did? You've admitted to tampering with MN Inc.'s perfume. I think we should end this charade and…"

"I only admitted to changing the formula, not stealing it. The formula is mine; I can change it as I see fit. Melanie claims First Love as her own, so why isn't she familiar with it? Or is this a case of one thief framing another? Is Mel the one who stole others' formulas and work?" Lily's accusation was blunt and merciless.

Accused and exposed, Melanie couldn't refute her. Caught off guard, she pointed at Lily. "You're lying! Y-You…" She fell backward off the stage before she could finish.

"Ah…"

"Mel!" Nathaniel rushed to her side, catching her. "Ms. Thayner's indisposition necessitates MN Inc.'s withdrawal from the stage," he announced politely but firmly to the host.

Turning to Lily, his expression relaxed, he added, "But we won't tolerate such slander!"

Lily watched, eyebrow raised, as he helped Melanie leave.

Tsk tsk tsk. Mel knows she's wrong and can't defend herself, so she faked a faint.

Melanie's theatrics, though predictable, were effective. MN Inc.'s departure ended the farce. The organizing committee continued the awards ceremony, but First Love's award was withheld due to the controversy.

Lily, though prepared, was immediately surrounded by reporters.

"Ms. Christian, was this controversy planned?"

"You disappeared from the perfume industry two years ago. Was it because of the slander you faced in that previous competition?"

"Ms. Christian, why did you join Rebirth? Mr. Hall said you were an MN Inc. employee—are you quitting or breaching your contract?"

"There were rumors of a relationship between you and Mr. Hall. Is this revenge?"

Each question was more pointed than the last. Lily smiled faintly, unfazed by their malice. "You'll get your answers in due time." She entered a waiting Rebirth limousine.

The car door closed, silencing the flashing lights and clamor. The cool air made her shiver. A warm jacket settled on her shoulders. "You haven't left yet?" she asked, surprised to see Alexander.

"Such a captivating performance; I couldn't miss it," he sighed, gently withdrawing his hand. "A somewhat unsatisfactory conclusion, though."

Lily shook her head. "It's not the end; it's the beginning."

"Oh?" He raised an eyebrow.

"I won't let others steal what's rightfully mine," she declared.

She had been foolish, sacrificing everything for love, even rebelling against her family, only to receive nothing in return. Before today, she still held hope. Nathaniel's actions, however, had shattered the last vestiges of tenderness in her heart. He knew First Love was her life's work, that she'd sacrificed awards and honors for it, yet he still called her a thief—all for Melanie.

Her phone vibrated. It was Olivia. "Olivia," she answered.

A triumphant laugh erupted. "I'm so happy! It was incredibly satisfying! You did great, Lily!"

Olivia's laughter was breathless. Lily moved aside, glancing at Alexander. "Olivia, must you laugh so maniacally?" she asked awkwardly.

"Of course!" Olivia exclaimed. "I thought you'd be with Nathaniel forever! But you told me to add those ingredients to their formula! You should have seen Melanie's face on the livestream! It was amazing!" Olivia's rapid-fire questions overwhelmed Lily.

"B-But will you leave MN Inc. after this? You joined Rebirth—when? Are they reliable? Have you negotiated your terms?"

Lily blushed. Alexander, though looking out the window, clearly heard everything.

"This is fate, Lily!" Olivia exclaimed.

Lily remembered meeting Alexander, his willingness to help, his marriage proposal.

"O-Olivia, let's not discuss that. Nathaniel will likely confront you; deny everything and blame me, understand?"

Olivia protested. "Don't worry, Lily. I'm not afraid of him; I'll quit if necessary." She was used to Nathaniel's behavior and would remain silent if questioned.

"But what about you, Lily? You slandered Nathaniel publicly. He'll be looking for you. Stay at my place tonight; I can protect you."

Lily saw Alexander looking at her, his gaze sharp, and hurried to reply. "N-No, that's okay. I have other arrangements. I'll call you tomorrow." She ended the call.

Olivia's reminder made her remember—tonight was her wedding night with Alexander.