Chapter 226

"The sample was technically successful, but our product failed the final testing phase. The outcome was... unacceptable for market competition." Dominic decided honesty was best with Vanessa. Some truths couldn't be sugarcoated.

"Unacceptable? That's impossible!" Her fingers tightened around the formula sheet. "This blueprint can't be wrong. I obtained it from—" She caught herself mid-sentence, biting her lip.

Dominic's gaze sharpened. "From where?"

"From—from my archives. I've had this formula for years, tested it countless times. There's no possible error!" Though her voice held conviction, doubt flickered in her eyes.

Lucien had provided this formula. Vanessa never questioned his expertise—until now. The failed tests shook her confidence, but she couldn't let Dominic suspect anything. She lifted her chin defiantly.

"I agree the formula should be flawless," Dominic ran a hand through his hair, "but we've replicated the process multiple times. Perhaps we should—" He hesitated, struggling with his next words.

Just days ago, he'd forbidden her from entering Phoenix Labs. Now he needed her expertise there. The irony tasted bitter, especially making this request to his fiancée. The words stuck in his throat.

"You want me to inspect the lab?" Vanessa finished for him. After years together, she could read his silences perfectly.

Dominic exhaled sharply, shaking his head. "No, forget it. We have top chemists who can troubleshoot. I only wanted to verify the formula. We'll break through this obstacle."

"Dom, stop pretending." She captured his restless hands. "You said it yourself—this is the crucial phase. As the formula's creator, I should oversee its execution. Even without your request, I'd insist on going."

"It's the chemical exposure I'm worried about." His gaze dropped to her abdomen. "Given your... condition."

Vanessa had been avoiding intimacy lately, citing the baby's delicate state. She needed space to focus on the pregnancy, she'd claimed. Dominic had respected her wishes, channeling his frustration into preparing for fatherhood. Every precaution mattered now.

She laughed, pulling a surgical mask from her pocket. "Relax, I'll wear full protection." Her eyes twinkled as she teased, "Should I borrow a hazmat suit from the fire department?"

"I'll have one specially tailored," he deadpanned.

Vanessa collapsed onto the bed laughing. "You're ridiculous! I'm joking! A quick inspection won't harm the baby. Our child isn't made of glass, you know." She patted her stomach playfully.

"But—"

"No more arguments," she cut him off, feigning annoyance. "Unless you want to deal with a very cranky pregnant woman?"

"...Fine." Dominic surrendered reluctantly.