Chapter 16

Melanie turned around and tried to leave, but she had barely touched the doorknob when she heard Zachary's deep voice ring out behind her. "I had them close the entire restaurant. You can't leave." Melanie froze, then gradually turned, her gaze steely. "Mr. Fuller, you've gone so far just to trick me into coming here." Zachary felt a pang in his chest when he saw Melanie's gaze, which felt distant and unfamiliar. He strode forward and confessed, his voice hoarse. "I looked into everything and learned that Yasmin framed you. Also, your miscarriage..." Melanie felt her chest tighten when she heard the mention of a miscarriage. It felt as if someone was gripping her firmly by the neck, and she was struggling to catch her breath. She swiftly stepped back, putting some distance between herself and Zachary. "So? What are you trying to say?" she asked. Seeing how Melanie reflexively resisted him, Zachary felt a jolt of sharp pain, and his breath caught in his throat. "Mel, I was