Chapter 199

Dominic Reeves proved himself a master of crisis management, skillfully turning the situation to his advantage. After scanning DR Holdings' official statement, Evelyn Carter realized her PR maneuver had unintentionally given the company positive media coverage.

While some skeptics questioned DR Holdings' motives and the authenticity of the leaked formulas, industry insiders speculated this bold move signaled something major was coming. "What's their endgame here?" Victoria Sterling tapped her chin thoughtfully. "This seems like corporate suicide. Why would they expose proprietary formulas unless they're phasing out their entire legacy product line?"

Victoria's observation highlighted DR Holdings' strategic pivot - abandoning outdated perfumes to rebrand. Though forced into this position by Evelyn's leak, both women wondered if the company could develop new products so quickly.

Their silent exchange was interrupted by a knock. "Ms. Sterling, Ms. Thornton is here to see you," announced the assistant.

"Isabella?" Victoria's brow furrowed in confusion.

"I asked her to come," Evelyn clarified. "Let her in."

"But we agreed she'd take time off before transitioning. You know how difficult—"

"I understand we can't officially hire her yet," Evelyn interrupted, "but DR Holdings will void her non-compete soon. My research has reached a critical phase, and I need all hands on deck. We must launch our new line quickly."

Originally planning to give Isabella space, Evelyn realized she couldn't complete this passion project alone. This debut creation for Phoenix Labs had to be perfect. As a newcomer, having a trusted ally like Isabella was invaluable.

"Hello Ms. Sterling, Evelyn," Isabella greeted nervously, still confused by Evelyn's sudden summons.

"You can start assisting immediately," Evelyn assured her. "Don't worry about DR Holdings - Dominic will release you from your contract."

"Seriously?" Isabella's eyes lit up.

Victoria shot Evelyn a skeptical look. "How? We just received their cease-and-desist yesterday. Unless..." Her gaze dropped to Evelyn's computer screen. "That Twitter leak was yours?"

Isabella gasped. "Evelyn! You shouldn't have risked that for me. If they trace the leak to you—"

The industry was still buzzing about yesterday's explosive revelation, which Isabella had suspected might be Evelyn's doing. While touched by Evelyn's loyalty, she feared the potential consequences. Corporate espionage wasn't a minor offense.