Chapter 102

Dominic Reeves was taken aback when Genevieve Sinclair called him, but he had no choice but to accept her assistance.

All he wanted was for Lucien Dubois to fix the mess at DR Holdings and get them back on track.

When they went to pick Lucien up that evening, Vanessa Blake’s demeanor toward him had shifted entirely. Earlier, she had doubted whether he was a genuine perfumer or just another fraud, but knowing Genevieve had personally vouched for him eased her suspicions.

Genevieve moved in the elite circles of Montclair Heights, where the wealthy and influential gathered. Vanessa was certain Lucien could help them—after all, he had connections with the best in the industry.

"Mr. Dubois, we're so grateful you agreed to assist us!" Vanessa offered him a glass of wine, her maroon strapless dress nearly matching the rich hue of the bottle.

Lucien remained indifferent to their attempts at flattery. "Ms. Sinclair once did me a favor. Now it’s my turn to return it. I’ll do what I promised."

Dominic nodded eagerly. "Of course! This must be nothing for someone of your caliber, Mr. Dubois. Regardless, we truly appreciate your help."

Lucien took a slow sip of wine before lifting his gaze. His eyes lingered on Vanessa’s face, scrutinizing every feature—from the curve of her forehead to the sharpness of her chin.

Dominic bristled at the blatant appraisal but held his tongue. He couldn’t afford to offend the man who held their company’s fate in his hands.

"You’re a perfumer as well?" Lucien asked, his tone cool.

Vanessa blinked, caught off guard, then nodded quickly. "Yes, I am! Though I’m nowhere near your level, of course. You’re the master—I’m just an amateur in comparison."

She forced a smile, trying to sound as humble as possible.

"Didn’t you win a few awards? Created some popular fragrances?" Lucien swirled his wine, his voice laced with disinterest.

Vanessa hesitated, glancing at Dominic, who looked just as confused as she was. "I suppose I got lucky. There’s still so much I need to learn—especially from someone like you."

"Lucky?" Lucien let out a dry chuckle, his tone edged with mockery. "In this industry, some have talent. Some have relentless drive. Some are given opportunities. But no one gets lucky."

Vanessa’s cheeks burned. "Well…"

"You call yourself experienced, yet you can’t even distinguish the nuances in the formula?"

His words were sharp, his gaze dissecting her every reaction. Vanessa shifted uncomfortably, her fingers tightening around her glass.

Biting her lip, she muttered, "Mr. Dubois, it’s not that I can’t tell the difference—it’s Evelyn Carter. She’s just too cunning!"