Chapter 910
Lily's name was searched incessantly, even more than during her previous lawsuit with Nathaniel. The renewed connection to him annoyed her, though it wasn't anything extreme. People were simply comparing past and present, voicing their opinions. Lily, once branded a plagiarist and liar, accused of stealing others' work, now saw her accusers seemingly slapped with the consequences of their actions.
Nathaniel, meanwhile, had fallen from MN Inc.'s presidency to public pariah, his rumored ascension to chairman of Tanner Corporation ending instead in jail. These momentous events were certainly worth remembering.
The absurdity of it all was striking; even television dramas lacked this level of reality. Their entire relationship was a public spectacle, and Lily now commanded a devoted following. Searches for "Lily and Nathaniel," "Lily and Lawrence," and "Lily and the Perfumers' Society" were incredibly popular, her name alone accounting for over half the top searches.
To escape the frenzy, Lily retreated indoors, silencing her phone. Netizens raged online, some even suggesting she lead the Perfumers' Society—after all, she had exposed its underbelly and shifted public opinion. She had become a legendary figure in the industry, her story growing more mythical with each retelling.
Lily felt helpless. She'd never craved the spotlight, good or bad. It all began because she refused to let a piece of paper define her worth. She wouldn't have gone to such lengths if the Perfumers' Society hadn't harassed, threatened, and forced her out.
Yet, she had no regrets. Lawrence's declining sense of smell with age was expected; perfumer's often overuse their noses, compounded by external factors affecting sensitivity. He should have stepped down responsibly, protecting his reputation. Instead, he clung to power, disregarding the young perfumers whose careers he jeopardized.
Had power and money truly blinded him? Rumor had it he rarely left home, the public criticism perhaps overwhelming for his age. The consequences could be devastating. Lily, having not seen Lawrence, was unaware of his current state. If they ever met again, she would ask if he believed it all worthwhile.
"I'm sorry, but Ms. Christian is currently unavailable. If you're interested in business with us, please leave a message. Thank you." All business calls were rerouted to Olivia, who delivered canned responses.
Helplessly, Lily sipped honey water. "All these calls are drying out my throat! Wouldn't I die of exhaustion if you really became president?" Olivia whined. Lily smiled. "No, because I won't be president of any society!"
"Given the Perfumers' Society's state, you're the only one who can restore public confidence. Otherwise, it might dissolve."