Chapter 100

“Oh, he’s just going through a breakup,” Sheldon answered casually, looking up from his computer. Then, he realized the inaccuracy. Melody and Christopher weren’t dating; they were married. It should have been… a divorce. Alas, it was inevitable that a freshly divorced man might become decadent and devastated. Besides, it was Christopher's own fault. Sheldon could only shake his head and sigh.

The other assistants were dumbfounded. The manager, visibly flustered, stammered, “Please try to comfort him; it’ll affect our work’s progress.” Sheldon smiled and nodded, though he knew there was little he could do. That day, the company’s group chat exploded with gossip about their president’s “breakup with the unpopular model.”

Noon arrived, and it was lunchtime. After several morning exchanges, Melody had already befriended a few colleagues and arranged a lunch date with them in the company cafeteria. “Melody, let’s have lunch together,” Anthony called out conspicuously as he reached the Design Department entrance.

Instantly, every team in the department focused on Christopher and the new hire. Eyes scrutinized them, sparking speculation. Feeling the weight of their stares, Melody turned to her colleagues. “I’m sorry, I’ll have to do lunch tomorrow,” she said, then quickly followed Anthony out.

“Her name’s Melody Smith, right? What’s her relationship with Mr. Zeller?”

“Mr. Zeller personally fetched her for lunch. Do you think they’re dating?”

“Hey! I saw her this morning waiting for the elevator downstairs. Anthony escorted her. I thought she was a business…”

The employees’ speculation swelled into a full-blown gossip fest. Meanwhile, Melody and Anthony were inside the elevator.

“Anthony, why didn’t you text me?” Melody asked.

“Because I knew you’d reject me, so I had to ask in person,” Anthony replied with a smile.

Melody met his gaze, sensing his intentions. She wasn’t a fool. Understanding immediately, she sighed slightly. “I’m sorry, Anthony. I…”

Anthony, seemingly aware of her unspoken refusal, interrupted. “I have no other intention. You’re a junior colleague, recently returned to the country, and instrumental in securing investment when this company was established. It’s reasonable for me to treat you to a meal.”

“But you already did, a couple of days ago,” Melody pointed out.

“That was the reception banquet; it’s not the same,” Anthony countered.

Melody fell silent, running out of ways to refuse. Anthony, quick-witted, anticipated her objections. “You don’t have to feel pressured. The employees wouldn’t dare gossip about you. You can rest assured,” he added.

Melody pursed her lips. “This will be the only time you treat me. After this, I’m only having lunch in the cafeteria.” Anthony looked at her, pausing before softly humming in response.