Chapter 31

Dominic Reeves seized the microphone first, his voice smooth and calculated. "Naturally, this isn't considered theft."

He adjusted his tie, his expression carefully composed. "Evelyn has been part of DR Holdings for years. She worked closely with Vanessa Blake, contributing to our fragrance development in significant ways."

His tone softened, feigning magnanimity. "I won't label this as plagiarism—that would be too harsh. In our industry, certain overlaps are inevitable. We're willing to give Evelyn another chance, and we hope DR Holdings continues to innovate."

Dominic had spent years mastering media manipulation. His words struck the perfect balance—firm yet forgiving, condescending yet convincing.

The reporters nodded, some even casting pitying glances at Evelyn. The narrative was clear: an ambitious assistant, desperate for recognition, had stolen company secrets.

Yet, a few sharp-eyed journalists caught inconsistencies.

One stood abruptly. "Evelyn previously stated she was never formally employed by DR Holdings. No contract was signed."

Dominic's smile didn't waver. "An oversight, I admit. But Evelyn and I were university classmates. We trusted each other—perhaps too much."

He gestured magnanimously. "We've since drafted a contract with excellent terms. I believe this misunderstanding will only strengthen DR Holdings' future."

The room erupted in applause.

Dominic exhaled, relief flickering across his face—until another reporter cut in.

"Ms. Carter, shouldn't you apologize publicly? And what about the investors? If they were misled, isn’t this fraud? Will they sue?"

The questions grew sharper, the stares more accusatory.

Dominic opened his mouth—but Evelyn snatched the microphone.

Her grip was steady, her voice cutting through the murmurs. "Excellent questions. Let me address the first."

She paused, letting the silence stretch. "I won't apologize—because I don’t owe one."

Gasps rippled through the crowd.

Whispers erupted. "How shameless!" "She can't be serious!"

Evelyn didn’t flinch. Her gaze swept the room, cool and unyielding.

"Let me clarify. Eternal Bloom is my creation. My assistant and I spent three months perfecting it."

She tilted her chin up. "And let’s not forget—most of DR Holdings’ bestselling perfumes? Those were mine too."