They sought to leverage her relationship with the Fowler family.

Melissa lowered her gaze, a small smile playing on her lips. "You're mistaken. I've ended things with Marcus. I'm afraid I can't meet your expectations. Moreover, I have no desire to bear the Smith name.

Would my father even acknowledge my place in the Smith household? And what about Vanessa?"

Thomas was taken aback.

He had assumed Melissa would be easily swayed by the allure of benefits and compliance with the Smith family's wishes. However, her was actually smarter than he expected.

Melissa, though often seeming fragile, was bolstered by her lack of attachments.

Fearless in her current state, she stated softly yet firmly, "Please, don't seek me out again. Or I won't hesitate to reveal Mr. Smith's affair and the tragic fate of his mistress."

Her words were accompanied by a slight, enigmatic smile.

This left Thomas even more astonished.

As Melissa prepared to leave, Thomas attempted to persuade her to stay. "Your father is overseas. He sent me to look after you. You should at least meet him."

"There's no need.

He neither birthed nor raised me. I see no reason for a meeting."

With that, Melissa departed without a backward glance.

Thomas reflected on her strength and the hardships she must have endured.

Pulling out his phone, he dialed a number. Soon, a commanding voice inquired, "Thomas, how did your discussion with her go? The Smith family is relying on her cooperation."

Thomas replied with a bitter smile, "She refused."

Frustration colored the other end of the line. "Incredible. She's choosing to reject a better life, just as ungrateful as her mother," the man spat out harshly.

Thomas, unable to contain his dismay, countered, “Isn't the fault yours? If you hadn't deceived Melissa's mother about your marital status, none of this would have happened. Melissa is innocent. She looked unwell. Can't you show any compassion towards her instead of just wanting to use her? She is your daughter, after all."

The man on the phone remained silent, digesting Thomas’ words.

After leaving, Thomas stopped by a pastry shop. He purchased some items and had them delivered to Melissa at her hotel, thinking it might be a kind gesture. Perhaps, he mused, he should have brought his wife with him and she could have helped pick out some other things suitable for girls as gifts.