Chapter 90

The entire team at DR Holdings' laboratory was immersed in their work, pouring over complex formulations. Essential oil compositions were notoriously intricate, with dozens of volatile compounds interacting in unpredictable ways. Even the slightest deviation in measurements could drastically alter the final scent profile, making troubleshooting nearly impossible.

Exhaustion weighed heavily on the staff. Dark circles shadowed their eyes, and stiff necks had become the norm—except for one person. Sophia Grant sat slumped in her chair, arms limp at her sides, head lolling back. The hum of machinery lulled her into an accidental doze.

Vanessa Blake chose that exact moment to stride in.

Her fists clenched involuntarily. After a sharp inhale, she forced her expression smooth and reached for a nearby lab coat to drape over Sophia's shoulders.

The movement startled Sophia awake. Blinking blearily, she murmured, "Ms. Blake... you're here?"

"Of course!" Vanessa's smile was saccharine. "You looked exhausted, Sophia. Tough day?" She produced a steaming cup of coffee with a flourish. "I brought you a pick-me-up. Care for a sip?"

Sophia's gaze sharpened instantly. She studied Vanessa like a scientist examining a suspicious specimen. Since when does the Ice Queen play nurse?

Vanessa's smile twitched under the scrutiny. Every muscle in her body screamed to snap, but self-preservation won out. She lifted the cup to her own lips. "Worried it's poisoned? Watch." She took an exaggerated sip. "See? Just caffeine and concern."

"Thanks, but no." Sophia's tone was flatter than a failed fragrance. "Besides, lab protocol prohibits food and beverages. The coffee's aroma could interfere with our olfactory assessments."

A rookie mistake—one no seasoned perfumer would make. The implication hung between them: Vanessa either lacked basic professionalism or willfully ignored it.

Vanessa's manicured nails dug into her palms. "Right! Of course!" Her laugh sounded like shattering glass. "I just wanted to check on you. Maybe you need a break? Let's chat outside."

She herded Sophia to the lounge, bustling about with renewed hospitality—fresh coffee, artisanal macarons, sliced dragon fruit arranged just so.

"Eat something," Vanessa urged. "You must be starving. Later, I'll treat you to—"

"Ms. Blake." Sophia folded her arms like a human shield. "Whatever this is, just say it. Your sudden kindness is terrifying."

Vanessa spun away, shoulders trembling. For three heartbeats, the only sound was her grinding teeth. When she turned back, the smile was back in place.

"Sophia, I know we got off on the wrong foot, but let's move past it." Her voice oozed sincerity. "You're friends with Evelyn without even working for her. Why not give me a chance?"

Sophia didn't blink. "No."

The lounge's air conditioning couldn't compete with the sudden Arctic chill between them.