Chapter 18

Dominic felt completely in the dark about what had transpired between Evelyn and Phoenix Labs.

Evelyn shook her head firmly. "I didn't."

"That's excellent news. Since you haven't signed any contracts with Celestia Group, we can still rectify this situation."

"They're simply manipulating you. I'm being generous by not suing Phoenix for slandering us."

With visible relief, Dominic gave Evelyn's arm a reassuring pat. "Evelyn, you're too innocent to comprehend the cutthroat nature of corporate warfare. We're only trying to protect you from these ugly realities."

"Let Vanessa and I handle this mess. You should focus on what you do best - creating exquisite perfumes. Isn't that your true passion? Wouldn't you rather spend your time developing new fragrances?"

Evelyn studied him carefully. He'd been gaslighting her for years, conditioning her to serve DR Holdings selflessly. Even now, they wanted her to take the fall while pretending it was for her benefit. If she confessed to stealing formulas now, her reputation would be ruined beyond repair.

Dominic's plan was transparent - protect DR Holdings and Vanessa's image while destroying Evelyn's credibility. Once branded a thief, she'd have no choice but to obey his every command. The sheer calculation of it made her stomach turn.

"Will DR Holdings recover if I admit my mistakes? You won't... abandon me, will you?" Evelyn asked with feigned vulnerability.

Dominic's expression softened. This was the compliant Evelyn he knew. She'd always prioritized his feelings above all else - how could she possibly betray him?

"Don't fret. I know someone's been influencing you. You're not to blame - we need to expose those malicious actors," Dominic said soothingly, pulling her into an embrace. "Everything will be fine. Vanessa and I will stand by you during the press conference. You're not alone in this."

Evelyn nodded, suppressing her revulsion. "I'll trust your judgment." Vanessa watched them through narrowed eyes, jealousy simmering beneath her composed facade. For now, she had to play along.

The moment Evelyn exited, Vanessa exploded. "Are you completely bewitched by her? How can you take her at face value? Do you honestly believe Phoenix Labs revealed our affair? Why would they tell her?"

"Whether Phoenix leaked our relationship is irrelevant now," Dominic said coolly, lighting a cigarette. "Damage control is our priority."

Vanessa scoffed. "You think she'll follow your script? Remember how she dominated last night's event. What if she turns the tables during the press conference?" Despite considering Evelyn foolish, Vanessa's instincts screamed something was amiss.

"She wouldn't dare!" Dominic exhaled a smoke ring. "And even if she tries, I have contingencies. Honestly, she's not that clever. Yesterday was likely just a misunderstanding."