Chapter 279

Evelyn stood frozen, utterly bewildered.

"I'm certain Ms. Sterling hasn't informed you yet," Gregory explained, sliding a violet-embossed invitation across the desk. "Celestia Group received an invitation to the prestigious Laurentia Perfumery Championship. The board has unanimously selected you as our representative."

Evelyn's breath caught. "The biennial Laurentia competition?"

She knew this event well. Held every two years in the perfume capital of Veridia, it sought to identify the most promising new talents in fragrance creation. Established master perfumers were barred from participating to give rising stars their moment in the spotlight.

Naturally, any aspiring perfumer could enter - provided they secured a sponsorship from an industry insider. Most participants were junior or mid-level perfumers hoping to catch the attention of fragrance elites and make their mark.

"Why me?" Evelyn questioned. She was the newest member at Phoenix Labs. Surely more experienced colleagues deserved this chance. The selection felt... politically charged.

Gregory's smile didn't waver. "Because you're our most qualified candidate."

Evelyn studied the gilded invitation, her fingers tracing the raised lettering. Something about this felt orchestrated.

Victoria noticed her hesitation. "What's troubling you? This is a career-making opportunity. The event takes place in Laurentia's perfume district - think of the connections you'll make! When will you get another chance like this?"

"Am I going alone?" Evelyn pressed. She'd never lacked confidence in her abilities. Years of intensive research and countless formula experiments had honed her skills to razor sharpness. The incident from her past... she'd long since proven that wasn't her failure.

Still, the world brimmed with extraordinary talent. While certain of her capabilities, Evelyn remained curious where she truly stood among her peers.

"An assistant will accompany you," Gregory assured.

Evelyn glanced at Victoria. "You're not coming?"

Victoria shook her head. "My schedule's packed with product launches. I can't abandon my responsibilities now."

"Then let me bring Bella," Evelyn suggested, referring to her former lab assistant.

"Absolutely not," Victoria cut in sharply. "Laurentia requires someone experienced with international logistics - accommodations, transportation, coordinating with event staff. Bella lacks those skills."

The explanation made sense. And since this was company policy, Evelyn didn't push further. "When do we depart?"

"Next Wednesday."

"Wednesday?" Evelyn's eyes widened. Today was Friday. That gave her barely four days to prepare.

"But our vacation plans-"

"Will have to wait," Victoria said with an apologetic shrug. "The dates overlap. Consider this an investment in your future. We'll reschedule your holiday for after you return victorious."

Gregory clapped his hands. "Exactly! I expect you'll make us proud. When you come back with that trophy, I'll authorize an extended leave for both of you."

Evelyn nearly rolled her eyes. Victorious? Trophy? He made it sound like she was heading into battle.

As they exited the office, Victoria squeezed Evelyn's shoulder. "This shows how much faith the company has in you. Very few perfumers receive invitations, and even fewer companies qualify to send representatives." Leaning closer, she added in a conspiratorial whisper, "DR Holdings didn't make the cut this year."

Evelyn arched an eyebrow but said nothing. Truthfully, her pulse had quickened with anticipation. This was the proving ground she'd secretly longed for - a chance to measure her skills against the best.

"I'll start preparing immediately," Evelyn said, already mentally reviewing her fragrance formulas. The game was on.