Chapter 359

The sudden appearance of police officers sent Vanessa's heart racing.

She had heard about Evelyn's kidnapping, of course—who hadn't? But the authorities had been tight-lipped about the perpetrators.

After scouring every news outlet and article, all she learned was that three internationally wanted criminals had taken Evelyn.

The motive? Still a mystery.

Vanessa had been bitterly disappointed when Evelyn wasn't killed during the abduction.

Even if she survived, Vanessa had hoped the rescue would come too late—just enough to keep Evelyn from competing in the finals.

But luck had favored Evelyn. She was found unharmed.

The news had infuriated Vanessa.

And now, with Lucien Dubois suddenly unreachable, her unease grew. A gnawing suspicion told her he might have been involved.

Not that she cared.

Lately, she had realized Lucien was becoming less useful. The benefits he offered were dwindling.

She had once believed that aligning with him would fast-track her to international recognition, connecting her with elite perfumers.

But after arriving in Laurentia, she quickly saw the truth—Lucien's reputation here was in tatters. He struggled just to stay relevant.

No wonder he preyed on people in other countries.

With that realization, Vanessa knew he was no longer her golden ticket. It was time to cut ties and find a new patron.

Her sights were set on Harrison Whitaker.

He was older, yes, but he had the prestige and influence she craved.

A true master perfumer.

If she could secure his favor, her future would be limitless.

So she had spent extra time perfecting her appearance before leaving for the competition, hoping to catch Harrison's eye.

If she succeeded, losing the competition wouldn’t matter. She’d still come out on top.

But now, the police stood in her way.

"Are you Ms. Vanessa Blake?"

One officer flashed his badge.

"You’re a suspect in a kidnapping case. You’ll need to come with us for questioning. You have the right to remain silent, but anything you say can be used against you in court."

Vanessa’s mind went blank.

"No! I have a competition to attend! This is crucial for me! You must be mistaken—I’ve been in my hotel this whole time! How could I be involved in a kidnapping? Who even—Evelyn? Did she accuse me?"

She took frantic steps back, words tumbling out.

"Listen, she hates me! She’s framing me! I didn’t do anything! Please, just let me go—I need to compete! You can question me after, I swear!"

The mention of kidnapping could only mean Evelyn’s case.

But why were they coming for her?

Sure, she had dropped hints to Lucien, maybe even planted ideas—but she hadn’t orchestrated anything concrete.

This wasn’t her doing!

"Sorry, but you’re coming with us now."

Handcuffs snapped around her wrists. Her protests fell on deaf ears.

"No! No—!"