Chapter 357

Alexander had suppressed news of Lily’s kidnapping as much as possible. The domestic media hadn't reported it, but word had spread in Westwood. Industry insiders, especially those who attended the perfume sampling conference, knew what had happened.

Lisa was distraught. She wanted to rush to Lily, but it was late, and her father stopped her.

Giselle was the most bewildered. She had been kidnapped but slept through the entire ordeal. She learned about it only after a doctor examined her and confirmed it upon watching the news. She repeatedly asked Lily, “Is the news true? Did we really get kidnapped?” Seeing Lily nod, she gasped, her mouth hanging open in astonishment.

“How did I miss all of that?!”

“You were heavily drugged and unconscious,” Lily explained. “The dosage was very high.”

After a moment, Giselle asked, “You said we were exposed to the drug in the car. Was it in the air freshener?”

Lily nodded. “They only wanted me, but you insisted on coming, so they took you too. I’m so sorry for involving you.” Lily felt terrible that Giselle had become a victim because of her.

“That’s not the issue,” Giselle replied. “How are you okay?” She wasn’t concerned about why she’d been kidnapped; she was baffled that she’d experienced nothing. It felt like she’d simply slept for a long time.

“I…” Lily began, then coughed. Alexander had asked her the same question yesterday. “I’m a perfumer, so I’m sensitive to scents,” she explained. “I held my breath when I noticed something was wrong. I still got drugged, but I probably had some immunity because I’m used to certain smells. That’s why I woke up faster than you. Don’t worry. The important thing is we’re both fine.”

Giselle thought for a moment. “Why did they kidnap you?”

“Maybe they didn’t want me in the final round,” Lily said. “Or maybe it was something else. I’m not sure. We’ll have to wait for the investigation.” She subtly changed the subject, wanting to avoid further discussion. “Anyway, the police caught them, and we’re safe. We should be grateful for that. The final round is coming up, but we still don't know the theme. Aren’t you nervous?”

Lily feigned nervousness to distract Giselle. It worked. Seeing Lily agitated, Giselle offered comfort. “Don’t be too nervous; it’s the last round. I have complete confidence in you.” She continued, “Besides, the kidnapping proves your skill—they targeted you to keep you out! The company doesn't have strict final-round requirements. We're already doing well just by being here. Relax.”

Giselle paused, then said, “If they wanted to keep you out of the finals, it was probably another finalist, or someone connected to one. That’s a key point. Did you tell the police to investigate?”