Lily was completely bewildered.

"I'm sure Ms. Gray hasn't told you yet," George explained, pushing a purple invitation across the desk. "The company has received an invitation to the biannual perfumery competition, and they've decided to send you as our representative."

Lily was shocked. "The biannual perfumery competition?" She knew the competition well—held every two years to select the industry's best perfumers. Established perfumeries were excluded, focusing instead on promising newcomers. Rookies could participate, but only with a referral; most entrants were junior or intermediate perfumers seeking recognition.

"Why me?" Lily asked, incredulous. She was new to the company; surely others were more deserving.

"Because you're the most suitable candidate," George replied with a smile.

Lily found this unconvincing. Her silent contemplation puzzled Jenny. "What's wrong? Don't you want to go? It's a fantastic opportunity to make a name for yourself! The competition is in Westwood—a great chance to expand your knowledge. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

"So, I'm the only one going?" Lily asked.

She had never doubted her abilities. Years of research and development, coupled with her experience, had even led her to question past failures. Still, she knew the world was full of talented people, and she lacked a clear measure of her own skill.

"The company will arrange an assistant," George said.

"Won't Ms. Gray be going with me?" Lily asked, looking at Jenny.

Jenny shook her head. "I have pressing deadlines."

"Then I'll ask Olivia to come," Lily suggested.

Jenny immediately rejected this. "Westwood requires someone familiar with the area to handle logistics—accommodations, meals, contacting organizers. Olivia lacks that experience." This seemed reasonable, so Lily didn't press the issue. "When do I leave?"

"Next week."

Lily was stunned. It was Friday. "But our plans…"

"Unfortunately, they'll have to be postponed," Jenny said, shrugging. "The schedules conflict. We'll plan another trip later. This is for the benefit of both you and the company."

George added, "Exactly! I'll be waiting for your triumphant return. Afterward, we'll give you both a long holiday!"

Lily was speechless. Triumphant return? It sounds like I'm going to war!

After finalizing the arrangements, Jenny patted Lily's shoulder. "This reflects the company's confidence in you. Few are qualified for this competition, and not every company even receives an invitation. MN Inc., for instance, didn't qualify." She whispered the last part conspiratorially.

Lily barely registered this. She felt a mixture of apprehension and excitement. This was a chance to prove herself, to gauge her true skill.

"Okay, I'll start preparing," Lily said, nodding.