Chapter 2
Evelyn knew she had to be bold when facing someone like Alexander Kensington. Without wasting time, she cut straight to the chase. "I understand Celestia Group is participating in this season's perfumery competition. I have a new formula and would like to join your team."
Alexander regarded her with cool detachment. "We've already selected our participant."
Evelyn wasn't deterred. "But you can submit multiple entries. I'm not here to replace anyone—just to add value."
His gaze sharpened. "Why should I trust you?"
Without hesitation, Evelyn reached into her bag and pulled out a thick folder. "This is the research and data for Eternal Bloom. Consider it proof of my sincerity. Three years ago, you offered me a position, so I assume Celestia Group already recognizes my capabilities." She paused, then added, "I even brought a sample."
His eyebrow lifted slightly. "A sample?"
For the first time since their conversation began, his expression shifted. Intrigued.
Evelyn nodded and extended her hand toward him. A delicate, sweet fragrance drifted through the air—subtle yet intoxicating.
Alexander's gaze dropped to her slender fingers, her fair skin. The scent lingered, teasing his senses.
"I'm confident Eternal Bloom will place in the Top Three," Evelyn said. "It would be the perfect complement to Celestia Group's portfolio."
As she withdrew her hand, Alexander unexpectedly caught her wrist. His grip was firm but not painful. She couldn't pull away, but she didn’t feel trapped either.
"Do you really think Celestia Group needs this?" he asked, voice low.
Evelyn held his gaze. "Consider it a gesture of goodwill. If that’s not enough, I have another offer—Celestia can own the trademarks for all my formulas over the next two years."
She had anticipated resistance. But as long as they were still talking, there was room to negotiate. Time was running out, and Alexander was her best option.
"Still not enough," Alexander murmured, finally releasing her. The ghost of her perfume clung to his fingertips. He lowered his lashes, masking the calculating gleam in his eyes. "Unless… you’re part of the deal."
Evelyn blinked. "M-Me?"
"Did you bring what I asked for earlier?" he said abruptly.
Confused but compliant, she nodded. "Y-Yes, I have it."
"Marry me," Alexander stated, tone indifferent. "And I’ll solve all your problems."
Her breath hitched. Marry him?
Only then did Evelyn notice the limousine was parked directly across from the clerk’s office. He had planned this.
"You can leave if you refuse," Alexander said, opening the door.
Panicked, Evelyn grabbed the handle. "I-I didn’t say no!"
"Then it’s settled." He stepped out, smirking. "Let’s make it quick. I have a meeting at 10:30."
Evelyn stared, stunned. Who rushes into marriage like this?
"Why?" she managed, voice barely above a whisper. "Why me?"
Alexander tilted his head. "Business, Evelyn. You need revenge against DR Holdings. I need a wife. Fair trade."
His casual tone contrasted with the intensity in his gaze—something familiar she couldn’t place.
Evelyn clenched her fists. There was no future with Dominic Reeves anymore. Marrying Alexander, regardless of his motives, wouldn’t hurt her.
"Deal," she said firmly.
She wanted karma to strike that backstabbing couple like lightning.
The paperwork was swift. After leaving the clerk’s office, Alexander tucked away their marriage certificate, slipping on sunglasses to hide his satisfaction. Evelyn hurried after him. "Mr. Kensington, about our collaboration—"
He stopped abruptly, turning to face her. Even through the shades, she felt the sudden chill in his stare.
"From today onward," he said smoothly, "you’ll need to adjust to your new title. Mrs. Kensington."
His arm circled her waist, his breath warm against her cheek. Evelyn’s pulse stuttered.
"Give the formula and sample to Harrison. He’ll handle it."
Then, just as suddenly, he released her and climbed into the limousine, leaving her standing outside.
"Mrs. Kensington," he said, glancing at his buzzing phone, "is there a problem?"
Evelyn swallowed. "C-Can we keep this marriage quiet for now? I have… unfinished business."
His expression was unreadable behind the sunglasses.
"Be at Celestia Group by five," he said before answering the call.
Evelyn closed the door, watching the limousine disappear. But her battle was far from over.
After a quick lunch and a wardrobe change, she drove to DR Holdings. Dominic had called multiple times—she ignored every one.
The moment her car stopped, Lucas Bennett rushed over. "Evelyn! Mr. Reeves has been losing his mind looking for you!"
Three years of hard work, and she was still just a lab technician.
Evelyn strode inside. "What’s wrong?"
Lucas shook his head. "No idea, but it’s urgent."
Only Dominic, Vanessa Blake, and her assistant knew Evelyn was the real force behind DR Holdings’ success. To everyone else, Vanessa was the star.
Evelyn didn’t care about credit before. She cared even less now.
Outside the CEO’s office, Dominic’s furious voice boomed. "You’re with her every damn day, and you’re telling me you don’t know where she is?! Do you think I won’t fire you, Isabella?!"
A phone slammed against the desk.
Evelyn’s jaw tightened. Taking it out on my assistant because you can’t find me?
She knocked and entered. Lucas wisely shut the door behind her.
Crash!
A cup shattered at her feet, ceramic shards grazing her skin.
Dominic’s glare burned into her. "Where the hell have you been all morning?!"