When the time finally came, she presented the antique plates to Alan.

"This is very kind of you," he said, chuckling in delight. "But we've only just met; how can I accept such a valuable gift?"

But they both knew the unspoken rules that governed these social circles. If Alan had the intention to do business with her, he would accept her gift regardless of the norms. And so, they exchanged a few more pleasantries, and then Alan accept the gift. He leaned closer and whispered, “I am actually very impressed with that project proposal, you know! My company shall respond once the preliminary assessment is done."

Melissa smiled and raised her wineglass in a toast. "Thank you, Mr. Scott."

Alan stared at her for a moment as an idea formed in his mind.

He happened to have a son.

This aforementioned son was in his thirties, and was of excellent character and commendable intelligence. The young man had lost his wife in an accident two years go, and he had been single ever since.

As it was, none of the ladies of the upper society would ever waste their time on a man who had been married, not to mention that he was now a widower.

And Alan himself would rather not have a divorced woman for a future daughter-in-law.

But as he studied Melissa now, he found that he was quite satisfied with her. Not only was she shrewd and capable, but she was very good-looking as well. She knew how to carry herself in the vicious world of business, all while maintaining her grace and gentility. She would make someone a very good wife, indeed.

Alan made up his mind there and then. He was going to make her his son's wife.

With his plan in place, he began to let his guard down around her, and proceeded to steer their conversations from business to some personal matters, like their hobbies and interesting family trivia.

Melissa's brows furrowed slightly. She was confused by Alan's sudden and unexpected zeal.

Even so, she was glad to have secured a solution to the financing problem.

Eventually, Alan said his farewells and left. Melissa finished her glass of champagne and thought she should freshen up before taking her leave as well. She was in the bathroom when Marcus suddenly barged in and locked the door behind him.

Melissa froze. She hadn't even seen him the entire time she was in the auction hall.

Marcus looked at her through the mirror as he walked over and turned off the tap. "Are you going to get Alan Scott to invest in your project? Why didn't you consider my proposal?"

Melissa broke eye contact and turned the tap on again.

“Do you really think that's appropriate?" she asked through the sound of running water.

Marcus turned to face her, his expression serious. "Why the hell would it be inappropriate? There are no permanent allies or enemies in the business world, Melissa, only endless opportunities that you need to seize."