Chapter 368

Evelyn's expression darkened at his words. She couldn't agree with his assessment.

"You're mistaken," she countered firmly. "It's not that Veridia lacks exceptional perfumers. The truth is, other nations have poached them away."

She squared her shoulders. "I'm living proof. Right now, I could choose to leave or stay. That's exactly why I want to remain and build my career here—to prove that Veridia can cultivate world-class perfumers whose creations will dominate the global market."

Harrison exhaled heavily.

"Very well, I respect your choice. But if you ever reconsider, my offer stands."

"Thank you."

He chuckled. "Now I understand why Serena adores you so much."

Evelyn smirked. "Maybe it's because I don't sugarcoat the truth."

With a booming laugh, Harrison escorted her out, his smile unwavering.

When Evelyn spotted the sleek black sedan idling at the curb, she immediately knew.

Alexander.

After exchanging final pleasantries with Harrison, she slid into the car and confirmed her suspicion.

But Adrienne was nowhere in sight.

"Where's Adrienne?" Evelyn asked, brows knitting together.

"I reassigned her."

"Just like that?"

Evelyn couldn't hide her disbelief.

Adrienne was fiercely loyal—stubborn to a fault, especially after the kidnapping. There was no way she'd leave without a fight.

"I am her employer," Alexander drawled, his tone laced with arrogant amusement. The air around him practically crackled with authority.

Evelyn rolled her eyes. "Nice try. She might be cautious, but she's no pushover. Don't tell me you strong-armed her."

A smirk tugged at Alexander's lips. "Gregory redirected her to handle urgent matters at The Chateau Royale. I simply... expedited the process."

Evelyn groaned. Power abuse.

"And she bought that?"

"You know Adrienne. She follows orders, but she’s thorough. She only left after verifying this was a company vehicle." He gestured to the plush interior.

Evelyn checked her silenced phone. Sure enough, Adrienne had bombarded her with messages:

Confirm the driver's ID. Call headquarters to verify. Wait in the lobby until security clears the vehicle.

Warmth bloomed in Evelyn's chest.

She was lucky to be surrounded by people who cared so deeply.