Chapter 292

Evelyn let out a soft sigh, tilting her head slightly. "Why are you even entertaining his nonsense?"

"There's some validity to it," Sophia countered, her fingers tightening around her purse strap. "Local perfumers and brands are gaining traction, but the majority still swear by international labels. As if they're inherently superior." Her voice carried a hint of frustration.

Evelyn shrugged, her gaze drifting to the city lights beyond the window. "To a certain extent, he's not wrong. Right now, the overall craftsmanship here hasn't caught up to the legacy of those global giants."

"Maybe not yet," Sophia said firmly, lifting her chin. "But we will. Mark my words."

Evelyn could see the fire in her friend's eyes—a determination that had always defined Sophia. One day, Veridia would stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the titans of the industry. The world would recognize their brilliance.

"Sophia, since you're home, I should head out," Evelyn said, turning toward the door.

Sophia grabbed her wrist, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. "Hold on! You're already here—why rush off? Last time, I was too drunk to be a proper host. Let me make it up to you tonight."

Evelyn hesitated, glancing at her watch. "It's getting late. I might not find a cab."

Sophia waved off the concern. "No worries. Worst-case scenario, I'll have Harrison drop you off."

At the mention of his name, a faint blush crept up Evelyn's neck. "I don't want to inconvenience anyone."

"Please," Sophia scoffed, looping her arm through Evelyn's. "Alexander will pay him triple overtime."

With that, she tugged Evelyn toward the gated entrance of Crestview Heights. This time, Evelyn had her access card, so they breezed past security without a hitch.

For Evelyn, stepping into this opulent neighborhood for the second time was surreal. The first had been in Alexander's sleek car, the memory still vivid. Now, walking through the manicured pathways, she couldn't help but marvel at the sheer luxury surrounding her.

The residences were nothing short of breathtaking—sprawling estates with grand architectural details, each home meticulously distanced for privacy. The air smelled of jasmine and freshly trimmed grass, the landscape illuminated by soft golden lights. Even at night, the beauty was undeniable.

Sophia's home, when they finally reached it, left Evelyn momentarily speechless.

"Make yourself comfortable," Sophia said, kicking off her heels by the door. "What's your poison?"

"Uh—anything's fine," Evelyn murmured, sinking into the plush sofa. The sheer scale of the place made her feel oddly out of place, despite having visited before.

Sophia returned with two glasses of chilled lemonade, handing one over. Evelyn took it gratefully, her eyes still scanning the lavish interior.

"So... it's just you and Alexander living here?" she asked, curiosity getting the better of her. "No staff?"

On TV, mansions like this were always teeming with maids, butlers, and gardeners.

Sophia chuckled. "Alexander values his privacy. So do I. We have a cleaning service and a gardener who comes by, but no live-in staff. It’s quieter this way."

Evelyn exhaled, leaning back. "That’s rich people logic for you. If it were me? I’d hire an army of maids—someone to clean, someone to cook, someone to give me massages, someone to gossip with..."

Sophia burst out laughing. "Are you sure you wouldn’t be creeped out by a hundred strangers lurking in your house?"

Evelyn grinned. "Worth it."