Chapter 128

The realization struck Vanessa like lightning. She stopped searching for Lucien in the crowded venue.

Even if she found him, would he care? Unless...

Her pulse quickened at the memory of his earlier words.

"No," she reminded herself sharply. "Lucien only wants one thing. Dominic is who truly matters."

On stage, the presenter showcased each fragrance's creator, detailing their inspiration and creative process.

He dissected scent profiles, suggesting which personalities each perfume would complement best.

Occasionally, audience members were invited to share their impressions.

Vanessa shrank in her seat. Not from shyness, but strategy.

The room brimmed with industry elites. One wrong word would make her a laughingstock. Silence was safest.

As she tried blending into the crowd, her gaze locked onto Evelyn instead.

The host had selected Evelyn, unaware of her identity.

"Ms. Carter, you'll be sampling Marcel Beaumont's latest creation," the host announced, referring to the legendary perfumer from Laurentia.

A collective gasp rippled through the crowd.

Everyone coveted this opportunity yet feared the scrutiny that came with critiquing a master's work.

Whispers spread like wildfire. "She's from Phoenix Labs," someone murmured.

Though Phoenix Labs held prestige as a Celestia Group subsidiary, most assumed they'd sent a novice for experience.

"Are you nervous, facing Marcel's masterpiece?" The host's tone was playful.

Evelyn's lips curved. "I believe Master Beaumont bears the greater burden."

The audience erupted in shocked murmurs.

Vanessa's jealous glare transformed into a smirk. 'Fool! Insulting Marcel and every expert here? Who does this nobody think she is?'

The host blinked. "I... beg your pardon?"

Victoria Sterling, Evelyn's manager, shot warning glances from the front row.

Unfazed, Evelyn continued, "Legends like Marcel must patiently endure our amateur analyses. Maintaining composure when hearing nonsensical critiques from juniors like us - that's true pressure."

Her calm delivery contrasted sharply with the growing buzz in the room.