Chapter 293

"Why should I be afraid? They're all employees I hired myself."

After a moment's consideration, Evelyn realized there was nothing to fear. In fact, it was a good thing.

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Vanessa shook her head and settled cross-legged in front of her, sipping her juice.

"What exactly are you mixing, Vanessa? The scent is... complicated. Don't tell me you're experimenting with something new." She wrinkled her nose. "This one is... certainly memorable."

Ever since she'd stepped into the cab, Evelyn had been trying to identify the layers of the fragrance.

The blend was too intricate—too many notes clashing and melding, making it impossible to distinguish any single element.

"I haven't decided yet. It's just a test."

Vanessa tilted her head, lost in thought.

At first, she had simply been playing around with spices and essential oils on a whim, with no clear goal in mind.

But Evelyn’s and Victoria’s remarks had sparked an idea. Maybe there was potential in this chaotic concoction.

Every scent in the world was unique—perfumes, oils, even the rawest of natural aromas.

Nature had blessed them with an endless palette of fragrances.

And if combined just right, they could create something entirely new—light or heavy, crisp or intoxicating.

Who was to say this wouldn’t captivate someone?

"Actually... I think you should shower first."

Washing off the lingering scents seemed far more urgent.

The sound of a car pulling up interrupted their conversation.

Evelyn stood from the couch.

"Since Mr. Kensington is back, I should get going."

"Why so nervous? He doesn’t bite."

Vanessa waved for her to stay, setting down her juice before heading to the door to greet him.

"You're early today."

Dominic had barely spoken when he paused, his nose twitching.

"Achoo—ah—"

Behind him, Harrison sneezed violently, barely managing to stifle the third one behind his hand.

Vanessa’s eye twitched.

Was it that overpowering? Had she just grown immune to it?

"Did you..."

Dominic gave her a slow once-over. "Visit the lab again? New experiment?"

"Just playing around." She shrugged.

"And?" He nodded.

"It’s... unforgettable."

Evelyn, standing off to the side, nearly choked on her own breath.

Dominic Kensington truly lived up to his reputation—diplomatic to a fault.

The man could spin even this into a compliment.

His gaze shifted to Evelyn, and he offered a polite nod.

"Good to see you, Ms. Thornton."

The moment his attention landed on her, Evelyn stiffened, standing ramrod straight. Vanessa barely suppressed a laugh.

"We're not at the office. No need for formalities."

"Force of habit."

Even with Vanessa’s reassurances, facing Dominic still made Evelyn’s nerves spike.

He wasn’t cruel, but his presence alone commanded respect—an unspoken authority that made people straighten without realizing it.

Every time, Evelyn found herself in awe of Vanessa.

Not just anyone could stand beside a man like that without flinching.

"I should get going, Vanessa. It's getting late."

She grabbed her bag and made for the door.

"It is late. Why don’t you—"

"Harrison," Dominic cut in smoothly before Vanessa could finish.

Harrison immediately understood.

"Allow me to drive you home, Ms. Thornton."