Chapter 252

Melanie knew what Nathaniel was about to do. She quickly went forward, helped him lift his blanket, and massaged his calves.

"Look! Your legs weren't amputated! You're fine, so don't worry too much. Trust me!"

"Trust you?" Nathaniel glanced at her sideways and scoffed. "I trusted you too much!"

Melanie didn't know what to say. She sighed, tucked the blanket around him, and stood. "I know you hate me, and you might want to kill me, but I didn't lie to you, Nate. I did what I had to do for our future! I know it hurts, so do whatever you want—punch me, curse me. I'll take it. But you must stay calm and not hurt yourself! Can you do that?"

Her voice was gentle, her remorse and concern evident. Nathaniel remained silent, his expression dark, but he didn't ask her to leave.

"Do you know how painful it was for me when I heard about your accident? I was so scared of losing you! Nate, I never want to lose you. I love you," Melanie said, gently holding his left hand.

Nathaniel withdrew his hand. Undeterred, she continued, "The lab confirmed the new perfume is fine. Our research is a success! No matter how angry you are, please don't take it out on work. I trust this new product will bring miracles to the company!"

After a moment, Nathaniel asked, "He… gave you the formula, didn't he?" He spoke swiftly, as if the word—referring to Frank as "he"—might taint his mouth. He couldn't bring himself to say Frank's name.

Melanie didn't deny it. "Yeah."

"You didn't bring him to the lab solely to improve the formula, did you?" Nathaniel looked intently at her, searching her face for the truth.

"Yeah," she nodded honestly. He let out a mocking laugh, a bitter smile on his face.

"Nate, I was wrong, but I did it for the company and for us," Melanie continued. "You know my standards and the lab's capabilities. Since Lily created that mess, our sales have dropped daily. Our brand's reputation is suffering, and the recent manufacturing problem almost ruined the company." She paused. "If we don't launch a new product soon, we can't raise sales, get nominated, or win an award at the annual perfumery event. The company will be in serious danger!"

Nathaniel remained indifferent.

"I know how much the board is pressuring you! If we don't deliver in two months, what will you do? What will I do? What will happen to the company?"

Finally, Nathaniel reacted. The corner of his lip twitched; he closed his eyes. She saw his chest heaving. He sighed. Reluctantly, he had to admit Melanie was right. On the surface, MN Inc. seemed fine, but it was falling apart. Nathaniel knew the company's true condition.

Without a new product and increased sales, everyone would know the company's glory days were over. The board might even divest! It would be game over, but he wouldn't let that happen.

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