Chapter 3

Lily looked down at her instep, then calmly raised her head. "What's wrong?"

"Where are the First Love documents? We can't find them in the lab. Do you know what day it is? Instead of staying in the lab, you chose to wander around?!"

Nathaniel followed Lily's gaze to the small cut on her instep. He felt a pang of guilt, but quickly shifted his focus to the upcoming competition, which he considered more important.

"Isn't the new product reveal and competition starting tonight? I thought I still had time, so I bought myself some new clothes."

Before Nathaniel could respond, Melanie, beside him, laughed. "Why? Are you planning to attend?"

"Can't I?" Lily turned to her former friend.

Melanie's smile widened. "It's not that. I'm just worried you'll feel out of place. Besides, didn't you avoid these sorts of events in the past?"

"Yeah, you've never liked these places or pursued fame and fortune. You can stay home and wait for our good news! Now, where are the documents?" Nathaniel approached Lily, reaching out to pat her shoulder, but she deftly moved aside.

Nathaniel froze. A kraft paper bag in Lily's hand caught his attention. "Are the documents complete?" He took the bag, carefully examined its contents, and then handed it to Melanie.

Melanie accepted the bag with practiced ease, glancing casually at the contents. A satisfied smile played on her lips. While she understood the fragrance, she lacked Lily's talent. Moreover, since becoming involved with Nathaniel, Melanie had neglected her own skills. Over the years, she'd likely forgotten much of her knowledge, taking credit for Lily's achievements. Holding the documents, Melanie almost felt the trophy beckoning. "Where are the samples?" she asked sharply.

"You can pick them up at the lab before you leave for the competition," Lily replied.

Lily observed the couple's blatant excitement as they exchanged glances. Disgusted, she asked, "Nate, can't I participate tonight?"

Nathaniel blanked, then frowned. "Lily, what's wrong with you? Didn't I tell you this is for your own good? Did you forget about the new talent competition two years ago? You…"

"Of course, I'm not saying it will fail, but consider this: There's always an 'if.' If something goes wrong, then…"

Nathaniel trailed off, feigning concern. If Lily hadn't heard and seen it firsthand, the couple's performance might have moved her to tears. Their words were considerate and kind, yet Lily found them repulsive.

"Well, then, I wish you both good luck tonight!" Lily said, smiling. She turned. "I'll return to the lab now."

Nathaniel nodded hastily. "That's right, hurry and prepare the samples. Make sure nothing goes wrong, understood?!"

Lily smirked. Oh, of course, she would ensure nothing went wrong.

On her way, she called Olivia. Olivia's voice was concerned. "Lily, are you okay? Mr. Hall has been looking for you for almost a day."

"I know," Lily said, focusing on the road. "Olivia, did you prepare what I asked for?"

"Yes, but you've adjusted First Love so many times. Are you sure about adding to it now?" Olivia asked worriedly. She trusted Lily's skill and judgment implicitly, but Lily had been tweaking First Love's formula for months and had only recently finalized it. Tonight was a crucial night for First Love, so Olivia questioned the late addition.

"Do you trust me?"

"Of course! I trust you, but are you sure you won't compete in person?" Olivia couldn't help asking, despite knowing the answer. She knew the dedication Lily poured into each perfume. Melanie had stolen the spotlight from Lily, even though Lily had researched countless best-selling perfumes. Olivia felt indignant thinking about it.

Lily smiled, sensing Olivia's support. "What's mine will always be mine," she said meaningfully. "Nate and Mel will collect the samples later. Just do as I said. Thank you, Olivia."

"Don't worry. I'll handle it!"

After hanging up, Lily drove into La Beauté's underground parking lot. The building was enormous, and even the parking lot was extensive. Fortunately, Alexander was well-prepared. Lily followed his instructions to a designated space. Edward was waiting.

"Ms. Christian, please come with me." Edward quickly briefed Lily as they ascended in a private elevator. "We've given the documents and samples to the project department. Your perfume will compete alongside La Beauté's other two scents tonight."

"Thank you." Lily nodded.

Alexander's willingness to do this was commendable. MN Inc., for example, began preparations three months prior, from theme selection to planning. Adding a perfume last minute would necessitate a careful risk assessment.

Edward's brief explanation hinted that La Beauté's staff might not readily accept her perfume, possibly even attempting to sabotage it. Lily knew she had to win decisively against MN Inc.

She found Alexander behind his large desk, surrounded by documents. He was reviewing them when she entered.

He looked up, perhaps sensing her presence. Lily felt a pang of nervousness.

"Come here." Alexander put down his pen.

Lily approached. Alexander examined her, narrowing his eyes. "Are you hurt?"

Alexander's question reminded Lily of the cut on her instep. Before she could reassure him, she felt herself lifted off the ground. Alexander had scooped her into his arms.