Chapter 2

Lily, needing to be direct with someone like Alexander Russell, got straight to the point. "I understand La Beauté Group is also participating in tonight's perfumery competition. I have a new formulation and wish to join your team."

"We've already chosen our participant," Alexander replied slowly.

Lily knew this. "But you can have multiple entries. I want to be an addition, not a replacement."

Alexander bluntly interrupted. "Why should I trust you?"

Lily quickly opened her bag, removing a stack of documents. "This is the research and data for 'First Love.' I hope this proves my sincerity. You offered me a role three years ago, so I assume your company understands my capabilities. I've even brought a sample."

"What sample?"

After some discussion, Alexander's expression changed. His brow rose, indicating interest.

Lily nodded and extended her hand. A sweet, subtle fragrance wafted from it.

Alexander stared silently at her fair skin and slender fingers, the scent alluring him.

"I'm confident 'First Love' will be a top-three contender, a significant win for La Beauté Group."

Lily retracted her hand, but Alexander grabbed her wrist, holding it firmly but not painfully. "Do you think La Beauté Group needs this?" he asked.

"This is a welcoming gift. If it's insufficient, I suggest this: I'll assign my perfume trademarks to your company for the next two years," Lily negotiated.

She expected apprehension, but knew negotiation was possible as long as they were talking. Time was running out, and Alexander was her best option.

"Indeed, it's insufficient." Alexander released her wrist; a faint fragrance lingered on his fingertips. He lowered his gaze, concealing a calculating look. "Unless… you're included in the offer."

"M-Me?" Lily was confused.

"Did you bring what I asked for earlier?" Alexander asked abruptly.

Despite her uncertainty, Lily produced it. "Y-Yes, I brought it."

"Marry me, and I'll help you settle your problems," Alexander said indifferently.

Lily was stunned. He wants me to marry him? Only then did she realize the limousine was parked opposite the registrar's office—Alexander's deliberate choice. He'd asked for her passport, intending to marry her.

"You can leave if you're unwilling," Alexander opened the door, urging a decision.

"I-I didn't say that," Lily stammered, clutching the door handle, fearing ejection.

"Then you're willing." Alexander smirked, exiting the limousine. "Let's get this done. I have a meeting at 10:30 AM."

Lily was speechless, incredulous that anyone would want to marry her so quickly. Gasping, she asked, "May I ask why you want to marry me?" Why me? Why now?

"It's business. You need help avenging yourself against MN Inc., I need a wife. A fair trade," Alexander said casually, though the playful glint in his eyes felt familiar, though she couldn't place it.

Lily and Nathaniel were finished. Marrying Alexander, regardless of his motives, wouldn't hurt her. A determined look crossed her face. "Deal!" She wanted revenge on the shameless couple.

The marriage proceedings were simple, with all necessary documents in hand. Afterward, Alexander carefully stowed their marriage certificate, hiding his happiness behind sunglasses. Lily chased after him, breathless. "Mr. Russell, about our collaboration…"

Alexander stopped, turning to his new wife. Through his sunglasses, Lily sensed his gaze growing colder, making her subconsciously loosen her grip on his blazer.

"From today, get used to your new identity, Mrs. Russell," he said, circling his arm around her waist, his breath on her cheek. Lily was momentarily entranced. "Give the perfume information and sample to Edward. He'll handle it."

He released her, entering the limousine, leaving Lily outside.

"Mrs. Russell, a problem?" Alexander asked, his phone buzzing.

"H-Honey? Could we keep our marriage secret for now?" Lily blushed, worried about delaying him. "I have some personal matters to attend to; it won't take long."

Unable to see his eyes, she couldn't gauge his mood.

"Be at La Beauté Group before 5 PM," he said, answering his phone. "What is it?"

Lily nodded, closing the door. She watched the limousine depart, knowing the battle was far from over.

She had lunch, bought new clothes, and then drove to MN Inc. Nathaniel called several times; she didn't answer.

Nathaniel's secretary, Anthony Moore, approached anxiously as she arrived. "Lily, you're here! Mr. Hall's frantic!"

After three years, Lily was still a lab technician.

Lily walked steadily into the building. "What's wrong?"

Anthony shook his head. "I'm not sure, but it's urgent."

Only Nathaniel, Melanie, and Lily's assistant knew about her high sales figures. Everyone else believed Melanie was the company's star.

Lily had never cared about titles; now, she cared even less.

Outside Nathaniel's office, she heard his enraged voice. "You see her daily, and you don't know where she is?! What kind of attitude is that?! Olivia Hart, don't undermine me because you have Lily's backing! I could fire you tomorrow!"

The sound of a slammed phone followed, making Lily frown. He can't find me, so he's taking it out on my assistant.

She knocked and entered. Anthony wisely left, closing the door behind her.

Crash!

A cup shattered at Lily's feet, shards brushing her skin. Nathaniel roared, "Where have you been all morning?!"