Chapter 239

Alexander took a moment to consider his words carefully. "To them, you're still essentially a newcomer," he said, his voice steady.

Evelyn nodded in agreement.

Despite her years in the industry, few had known she was a perfumer. She had always worked in the shadows, her creations stolen and claimed by DR Holdings and Vanessa. They had taken her recognition, her reputation—everything.

Now, she was stepping into the light, crafting fragrances under her own name. Her identity as a newcomer gave her freedom, but it also came with limitations. The elite clientele she sought demanded more than just skill—they wanted prestige, a name they could flaunt.

Luxury perfumes weren’t just about scent. They were about status. And right now, she didn’t have that.

"I know I don’t have the fame," she admitted, her voice firm. "That’s why I’m not just relying on winning the annual competition. I have another plan."

Alexander’s brow lifted in interest. "What kind of plan?"

"I’ve been working on two new fragrances," she said, a spark of determination in her eyes. "Even if I don’t win, I’ll still have something to show for it. A lesson, at the very least."

"It won’t be easy," he warned.

She smiled. "But it’s worth it. I’m doing what I love."

The sincerity in her words softened his expression. Without another word, he scooped her into his arms and carried her toward the stairs.

Evelyn blinked in surprise. "What are you doing?"

His lips curved into a slow, knowing smirk. "If you’re doing what makes you happy, then so should I."

Heat rushed to her cheeks as understanding dawned. The night stretched before them, filled with pleasure and whispered promises.

"You’re late," Vanessa hissed, keeping her voice low as she glanced around nervously. She had spent hours memorizing the security camera placements, ensuring she wouldn’t be seen.

She had scouted the venue earlier under the guise of checking for potential issues. But what she hadn’t expected was for Lucien to be late—again.

He had demanded punctuality from her, yet he couldn’t be bothered to show up on time.

Her jaw tightened in frustration, but she swallowed her irritation. She needed him. And that meant waiting.