She looked sharp, but he thought it was too formal for a date.

As Melissa sat down, the waiter started bringing out the dishes.

Jaime had ordered up big time-all specialties of the house. Melissa seemed to be enjoying them all.

As Melissa dug into her meal, Jaime refilled her glass of water. “I didn't expect you were into spicy food," he remarked.

“These dishes remind me of home. I grew up having lots of spicy food,"

Melissa replied with a faint smile.

Jaime cautiously asked, "What about the Smith family..."

Jaime had a crush on Melissa but he also had his own concerns. If Melissa could take over the Smith family, then marrying her would be an even better deal for him.

As soon as Jaime mentioned the Smith family, Melissa felt disgusted.

But she kept her cool. "I have nothing to do with them," she said calmly.

Jaime was taken aback, unsure how to respond.

Seizing the moment, Melissa made it clear. "I appreciate your interest, Mr. Scott. But I'm not looking to tie the knot or get involved romantically right now. So, aside from business, there's not much else for us to discuss."

Hearing that, Jaime felt awkward.

Taking a sip of his water, he tried another angle. “Aren't you worried that rejecting me will affect Waston Group's financing?"

"I work for Waston Group. I do my best and they pay me for it. It is that simple," Melissa replied firmly.

Jaime nodded with a tight smile.

Not ready to give up, he pushed, “What about Marcus? Are you still into him?"

Melissa kept it brief. “That's my personal business, not yours." Her expression was stern.

Throughout the encounter, Melissa maintained a balance between confidence and restraint.

Jaime realized there was no room to negotiate. Disappointed but still fond of Melissa, he sighed. “I guess we're just not meant to be."