Chapter 203

The hum of creativity was always intoxicating. Vanessa longed to immerse herself in the process, but the moment she stepped into the lab, a wave of nausea crashed over her.

Being confined in that space for too long made her stomach churn.

She sighed, rubbing her temples. It was understandable—forgivable, even. Pregnancy had its own set of rules, and her body was no longer just hers. Setting down her sketchpad, she retreated to the lounge outside, opting to supervise from a distance instead.

A steaming cup of coffee sat untouched on the table. She knew the risks—too much caffeine wasn’t ideal for the baby. But then again, was she even keeping it?

The question gnawed at her. Dominic wanted this child desperately. An abortion would fracture their already fragile relationship.

Yet…

What a mess.

Her phone buzzed, snapping her out of her thoughts. She expected Dominic’s name to flash across the screen, but it was Lucien. Her pulse spiked.

Glancing around, she confirmed she was alone before snatching up the phone and slipping into the quiet of the hallway.

"Hello?"

"Ma chérie, did you miss me?" His voice was smooth, laced with playful arrogance.

Vanessa exhaled, slipping into the role effortlessly. "Of course I did. I wish you were here right now. But I know your art comes first, so I’ll just have to suffer in silence." She knew exactly what he wanted to hear.

"Really?" He sounded pleased. "And what are you up to now?"

"I’m in the lab. The formula is crucial, so I’m handling it personally. Wouldn’t dare disappoint you." Flattery first, then the ask. She softened her tone. "I think these two scents could dominate the annual perfumery competition. Speaking of… will you be there?"

Lucien chuckled, sharp as a blade. "Ah, so that’s what this is about. Fishing for insider information, are we?"

She didn’t bother denying it.

"Maybe. Is there a chance to… sway the judges?"

His laugh was low, knowing. "Do you really want this opportunity?"

Her breath hitched. Was he implying—?

"Wait. Are you judging this year?"

The competition was notoriously strict. Judges were handpicked from international experts, their identities kept secret until the event. Bribing them in advance was impossible.

But if Lucien was on the panel…

Her mind raced. With his influence, his connections, his vote—winning would be effortless. The gold medal might as well already be in her hands.

A slow, triumphant smile curled her lips.