Chapter 496

Evelyn was baffled. "Ask me about what? Would you like me to attend your performance?"

She said it half-jokingly, unsure how else to assist Serena. But the way Serena stared at her was odd—intense, almost pleading. "If you're free, of course! But that's not why I'm here. It's something else entirely."

"What is it?"

"I need your help creating a perfume," Serena leaned in, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "It's right up your alley!"

Evelyn blinked in disbelief. "You're joking, right? Your father is a legend in this field. Why come to me?"

"I knew you'd say that," Serena huffed, frustration flickering across her face. "But it's not that simple. Yes, my father is a master perfumer, but he doesn’t get what I want."

Evelyn nearly laughed. Her own father didn’t understand her?

"Don’t look at me like that! I’m serious!" Serena pouted, her usually poised demeanor slipping into something more childish. Despite her striking beauty, she had an endearing, almost naive charm.

Evelyn bit back a smile. "No, no, I’m not laughing. Explain it to me. Why doesn’t he understand?"

"Everything he makes for me is sweet, innocent—like I’m still a little girl. But I’m not! I could just buy from luxury brands, but we are the luxury brand. Wearing something mass-produced? That’s as embarrassing as showing up to a gala in the same dress as someone else!"

She clasped her hands together, resting her chin on them, her gaze locking onto Evelyn’s with desperate hope. "Please. I need something me—bold, sophisticated, unforgettable."

Evelyn arched a brow. "So, you’re saying your standards are… high?"

She was teasing, but the request wasn’t unheard of. Celebrities, socialites, even heiresses often commissioned bespoke scents from elite perfumers.

For them, money was irrelevant. The real currency was distinction—a way to stand out without saying a word. Once, it was designer labels and rare jewels. Now? Perfume had become the ultimate status symbol.

A signature scent wasn’t just fragrance—it was identity.

And yet, those clients always sought established names. Not someone like Evelyn, still carving her place in the industry.

"Of course my standards are high!" Serena scoffed. "Why else would I come to you? I think you get me. I want to be fierce. Unapologetic."

She blinked, suddenly earnest. "I’m not a child anymore."