Chapter 20

Seraphina thought, ‘I heard that Dashiell is cruel and ruthless. I never expected him to be so gentle and considerate in private.’

The water temperature was just right. Seraphina took a refreshing shower and changed into clean clothes. There were also comfortable products that greatly relieved her menstrual discomfort and made her feel relaxed.

Seraphina thought, ‘Dashiell was right. No need to rush. I should rest well first.’

Dashiell embraced Seraphina, and they took a nap. Seraphina felt incredibly safe. They simply held each other and slept without doing anything else, but Seraphina felt immensely relieved and happy.

Seraphina only slept for about an hour. When she woke up, she noticed numerous missed calls on her phone.

Seraphina thought, Julian is really worried. The more anxious he is, the calmer I feel.’

Seraphina leisurely changed into a plain white dress, without any special decoration or design. It was simple, but it suited her figure beautifully, giving her an elegant and lovely look.

Before Seraphina left, Dashiell wrapped his arms around her waist and k*ssed her neck. “I wish I could hold on to you forever.”

“Whether you let go of me or not, I’m all yours.”

Seraphina wrapped her arms around Dashiell’s neck, stood on her tiptoes, and gently k*ssed his cheek.

However, Dashiell seized the opportunity and k*ssed her passionately.

It was an intimate and affectionate k*ss. Seraphina hesitantly protested, “Um… My lipstick is smudged…”

Dashiell slowly released his grip and looked at her rosy lips. The wonderful feeling made him want to do it again.

Dashiell tenderly k*ssed Seraphina twice and then let her go. “I’ll ask Brayan to wait outside. Come back as soon as it’s over.”

“Sure.” Seraphina nodded and left.

When Seraphina arrived at the venue, Julian, who had been waiting for a long time, immediately scolded her, “What the hell were you doing? I’ve been calling you |||

O -5 countless times. Did you get in touch with people from Aroma Delight again? Haven’t I made it clear enough to you? Do you understand the importance of this? You…”

Seraphina lifted her gaze and gave Julian a cold glance. Julian paused and suddenly fell. silent.

“Let’s go,” Julian said.

Instead of entering the venue directly, Julian quickly reiterated to Seraphina in the aisle, “I’ve already told you before, so you know what to say. After today, Prosperian Company will reach new heights.

Just do as I instructed, Seraphina. I know you’ve always been sensible. Today… we’re counting on you!”

Seraphina listened attentively and maintained a calm and composed smile.

She didn’t say anything, which made Julian a little anxious. He wanted to say more but felt that he had nothing else to add.

Finally, Julian raised his hand and placed it on Seraphina’s shoulder. He leaned close to her ear and whispered, “I trust you, but you better not deceive me. Otherwise, don’t blame me for being ruthless.”

After saying that, Julian slowly withdrew his hand and gazed at Seraphina affectionately.

Those who didn’t know the truth might think that he had just whispered sweet words to her.

Seraphina’s smile vanished as she approached the venue, her eyes cold and determined.

As she entered, the bright flashes of cameras overwhelmed her. Reporters hastily lifted their cameras, eager to capture the moment. Seraphina paused briefly, composed herself, and confidently made her way towards the stage.

A row of tables stood before her. Executives from Prosperian Company occupied the seats on each side, while the three center seats were reserved for Julian, Vivian, and Seraphina.

Seraphina thought to herself, ‘Perfect. The middle seat suits me just fine!’

She walked directly to her seat and took her place.

Vivian had already arrived and glanced at Julian, who nodded in affirmation, giving her some reassurance.

The press conference commenced, with Julian getting straight to the point.

“I’m sure everyone is already aware of the events that took place during last night’s Debut Scent Competition in our city. There has been some misunderstanding. Today, |||

O through this press conference, we aim to provide a clear explanation to all those who are concerned about this matter through various media outlets.

“Last night, the fragrance entry titled ‘First Love’ garnered widespread acclaim. However, it appears that another company has submitted similar work, raising concerns of possible plagiarism. The individuals involved in this incident are all present here today. Let’s address the matter directly. Please give us a thorough explanation.”

Julian then handed the microphone to Vivian.

Donning a black off-neck dress that exuded authority, Vivian presented an interesting contrast to Seraphina, who stood beside her dressed in white.

Accustomed to such situations, Vivian smiled composedly and spoke, “Hello, everyone. I’m Vivian Garcia, the chief perfumer of Prosperian Company.”

This statement elicited a smile from Seraphina, the actual chief perfumer of Prosperian Company.

Vivian continued, “I believe everyone is well-informed about the incident that occurred yesterday. Mr.

Brown has also provided a summary earlier, so there is no need for me to repeat it. I have learned since entering this industry that effort holds greater significance than talent. Only through conscientious and continuous practice and testing can we achieve satisfactory results.

“Integrity should always take precedence over everything else. While deceitful tricks may bring temporary glory, they are short-lived. Isn’t that right, Seraphina?”

Vivian even posed a question to Seraphina, diverting the attention of everyone to her.

As expected, all eyes turned toward Seraphina. Cameras clicked incessantly, awaiting her response.

Even without directly accusing anyone, Vivian made her intentions clear. She portrayed herself as the victim while implying that Seraphina, the supposed thief, had stolen her work and ideas.

With the microphone in front of her, Seraphina remained silent initially. She calmly surveyed the entire venue.

Just as Julian grew anxious, about to offer a reminder, Seraphina finally spoke, “Yes, I agree with Ms.

Garcia. Acting with integrity holds greater importance than anything else. While talent certainly matters, it is eclipsed by the significance of effort.”

Reporters continued to/capture her image, yet Seraphina did not flinch. She stared back at the dazzling flashes with unwavering composure.

III t Julian and Vivian maintained polite smiles, but their confusion was evident.

Seraphina had merely echoed Vivian’s words verbatim, without altering a single word, yet their delivery felt peculiar coming from her.

“Ms. Jones, are you admitting to stealing Ms. Garcia’s ideas and work?” a reporter asked directly.

Facing such a pointed question, Seraphina smiled and replied, “I… didn’t say that.”

The crowd was stunned by her response. Cameras resumed clicking, while more individuals felt compelled to ask questions.

Julian’s expression shifted. He turned to look at Seraphina, wondering, ‘Is she really planning to play some sort of trick?’