Chapter 116

Melanie was speechless. She hadn't expected Frank's reaction. She watched him turn and walk to the refrigerator. He grabbed a cold beer, opened it with a snap, and took a long drink.

He rolled his eyes, seemingly reconsidering his words, then shrugged. "You need to be more open-minded," he said. "I didn't expect you to be so rigid. Remember, we're here to have fun, and I'm happy if you're happy. Why are you overthinking? I can give you everything you want, and you can satisfy me. Isn't that good enough? Why the heavy thoughts?" He looked nonchalant, as if her rejection was insignificant.

Melanie felt embarrassed.

"Don't worry," Frank said, nodding. "I'm just here for fun, and I don't like forcing anyone. It's fine if you don't like it. I'm going to rest now."

His casualness, the lack of anything extreme, made Melanie feel hypocritical and unsure. She felt humiliated by his dismissal. However, she had already rejected him, and it was too late to change her mind. Her flustered thoughts hadn't allowed for clear thinking. "Okay, I understand," she stammered. "Have a good rest, Mr. Moreau. I'll see you in the evening." She lowered her head and hurried toward the door.

Just as she reached for the handle, Frank called, "Melanie!"

She stopped.

"We'll be in Middle Valley for a week," he said, smiling and holding his beer. "So you have plenty of time to think about it."

Melanie murmured an almost inaudible "mhm" and exited the suite, closing the door behind her. Frank smiled resolutely, alone in his suite.

Melanie was flustered, unsure how she'd even made it back to her room. She felt suffocated. Frank's touch, his scent, his words haunted her, leaving her breathless. I have time to think about it. No! I can't betray Nate, not to mention I might be pregnant!

She knew Frank just wanted a casual relationship, but Nathaniel wanted to marry her; their relationship was sincere. She would never make the wrong decision. No!

Suddenly, her phone rang—Nathaniel. She answered immediately. "I miss you so much, Nate!"

Nathaniel was stunned by her enthusiasm. He chuckled. "What's wrong? You just left, and you miss me already?"

Melanie's response was sincere and coy. "I was just thinking about when you'd be able to see me."

"Mel, you know I still have things to do here, but it'll be over soon. I'll come see you when I'm finished, okay, darling?" Nathaniel gently coaxed her. "Oh, have you arrived at the hotel? Is the room alright? I chose the larger suite because the others are less comfortable. You deserve better, of course. Are you satisfied with it?"