Chapter 150

"You're awake?" Lucien forced a smirk. "You're about to get exactly what you deserve." His words erased every trace of her humiliation as she stared at him with wide, hopeful eyes. "Really?"

"Of course." He leaned down, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "Shower and get dressed. I'm taking you somewhere special."

"Where?" The moment he spoke, a surge of energy rushed through her.

"You wanted to learn how to become a star perfumer, didn’t you? Then stop asking questions and just do as I say."

Finally, he straightened, withdrawing his arms. When his gaze dropped to Vanessa, the weight of it pressed down on her, leaving her speechless.

He wasn’t wrong—but it made her feel like nothing more than a commodity, something he could price at his whim. The thought unsettled her, but then again, wasn’t this the deal? She’d give him what he wanted in exchange for her dreams. That was how bargains worked.

If she suddenly grew a conscience over pride, he’d probably laugh. To him, she was just a transaction. Once she accepted that, the discomfort faded.

Lucien seemed pleased, a quiet chuckle escaping him. When Vanessa returned to her cramped room this time, everything felt different. Soon, she’d leave this dingy life behind and step into the luxury she’d always craved.

She picked out a sheer, figure-hugging dress and paired it with silver stilettos—sexy, but elegant. Standing before the mirror, she examined herself. Though the events of last night had left her slightly pale, her curves still looked flawless.

After finishing her makeup, she finally remembered her phone. It had died last night, so she’d left it charging in the kitchen. She hadn’t thought she’d need it, but the moment she turned it on, a flood of messages from Dominic lit up the screen.

"Vanessa, answer me. We need to talk."

"Vanessa, are you still upset? I can explain."

"Vanessa, turn your phone on. I’m worried."

"Vanessa, it’s my fault. Forgive me."

"Vanessa, I’ll give you anything. Just don’t be angry."

"You know you’re the only one I love."

Vanessa felt nothing. If she’d seen these before last night, she might have wavered. But now? There was no going back.

I’m not stupid enough to wait around for him. He can keep his empty promises.