When Love Becomes a Cage (Melanie)

Vinson didn't sugarcoat his words, and Clyde's eyes locked onto him. Then, out of nowhere, Clyde cracked a smile. "Ah, so Ms. Crawford's talent caught your eye. Mr. Russell, you have a knack for spotting the good ones."

"Well then, Melanie, let's make this collaboration work. Let's keep all communications within the office, shall we? It would be easier to manage any issues that way."

Clyde's last sentence carried a hidden meaning, but I pretended not to catch it. "Mr. Patterson's right. Let's get down to business and not waste any more time. After all, we've kept Aspire World waiting far too long due to some people's blunders."

Kayla tugged gently at Clyde's sleeve. "Mr. Patterson, didn't we agree that I'd be involved in this project, too?"

I knew she was eager to join the project. Not just for the commission, but the bragging rights of having worked with Aspire World were too good to pass up.

But I wasn't about to give her that chance. "Sorry, this project doesn't need direct supervision from the Administrative Department, right? Besides, you are not even a regular employee yet, are you?"

Kayla was still just an intern, not even a full-time employee yet. So naturally, she didn't have the right to be part of such an important project.

She glared at me with frustration evident in her eyes. "This project was initially my responsibility, and Mr. Jenkins had said..."

"You mean Bill? Sorry, but Mr. Jenkins is currently under internal investigation and won't be managing this project." Vinson glanced at Kayla. "This financial case could have widespread implications. Ms. Osborne, you're close with him?"

At the mention of potential criminal involvement, Kayla almost freaked out and turned to Clyde. "Clyde..."

"Mr. Patterson, we're about to start the meeting. Are you sure you want your assistant to sit in? Or are you planning to force someone on me?" Vinson had settled back into his seat, his team members pulling out laptops to take notes.

Clyde's throat bobbed as he struggled, finally managing a strained smile. "You go ahead with the meeting. I've got work to do. Ms. Crawford, come to my office once the meeting is over."

I nodded slightly, signaling my understanding, then took my seat. I knew what was on Clyde's mind. He was worried I might go out for lunch with Vinson. But I wasn't about to go along with everything he wanted.

Without further interruptions, the meeting progressed much more smoothly. Vinson's expertise in design had grown over the years, quickly offering constructive suggestions.

I watched him excitedly. "You're not doing design work anymore?"

He shook his head, then glanced at his team. "The company needs me elsewhere. I can't focus on design work, but I can offer some ideas."

His assistant interrupted, "Mr. Russell is the future of Aspire World. Where would he find the time for design work?"

I stared at Vinson, and he cleared his throat awkwardly. "Today's discussion went so well. Let's all go out for dinner on me."

His proposal was met with cheers.

"Hooray! That's why you're the boss, the one and only Mr. Russell! I'm craving a steak buffet!"

"Agreed. How about Golden Spoon? Let's give our boss a feast he won't forget!"

"I'll make the reservation right now."

Vinson's assistant looked at me eagerly. "Ms. Crawford, you should come, too!"

Her colleagues nodded in agreement.

"Bring your assistant as well. The more, the merrier."

"Exactly, Mr. Russell can afford it. He won't miss out because of two more people."

Turning to Lina, her eyes sparkled with anticipation, and I eventually gave in When we all arrived at the restaurant, everyone went to grab their food, leaving me and Vinson watching the bags.

"I feel bad for making you pay for this."

I was genuinely embarrassed. The Golden Spoon wasn't cheap, and its buffet cost a fair bit per person.

He shook his head. "They wouldn't have saved money even if you hadn't come."

"You seem to get along well with the team. That girl mentioned you're the heir?" I was curious about Vinson.

I didn't know much about Vinson, just vague references to his family's significant influence.NôvelDrama.Org: text © owner.

He smiled meaningfully at me. "Why else would Aspire World insist on partnering with the Patterson Group? Clyde's not exactly top-tier."

The confidence in his eyes was the

same as it had been back in college.

He had always claimed he was better than Clyde and that I would see his worth eventually. Finally, I could see it, but it didn't change where we stood.

Suddenly, a group of reporters with cameras charged at us. Vinson instinctively moved to sit beside me, shielding me.

"Mrs. Patterson, dining here with this young man, does this confirm the rumors? Are you and Mr. Patterson leading separate lives?" "Are you supporting this young man, or is this true love?"

"Melanie, we heard you stuck with the rich kid back then, pestering Clyde upon your return. So, have you found a new target now?"

The gossip buzzed around us, but one of the reporters cut to the heart of the matter, calling me by name.

I turned to face her, and she

hesitated but raised her voice even

louder. Melanie, they say you won't divorce for the money. Accused of infidelity, do you still have the right to demand anything?"