Chapter 367

Lily smiled. "To be honest, I didn't need to guess. The personal touches in these two perfumes are obvious. Both have a distinct smell, with a strong orchid note."

She paused, looking intently at Wesley. "It's very similar to your perfume."

"So, your final answer is?"

Wesley remained impassive, giving no indication of whether she was right.

"You made them; they're your products," Lily stated firmly.

Wesley raised an eyebrow and chuckled. "Many people—most, in fact—gave that answer. And I recall from your answer sheet that you noted considerable differences between the two fragrances."

"Yes, I'm sure!" Lily nodded. "While the fragrances are very different, I also noted on the answer sheet that their base notes are the same. The significant differences are likely because one is an older product, and the other is more recent. In other words, you've refined it. As perfumers, we constantly create new fragrances and revisit older ones. No matter how perfect our work, we strive for improvement. And as we age and gain experience, our perspectives change. So, it's not unusual for your creations to evolve."

This finally moved Wesley. "Have you studied my work?"

"A little. You're one of the industry's top perfumers. As aspiring perfumers, we study our predecessors' work."

"Then tell me your favorite and least favorite of my creations," Wesley said, genuinely interested.

Lily readily engaged in the discussion. They chatted for what seemed like only a moment until a knock interrupted them.

"Mr. Parker?"

Wesley frowned. "What is it?"

The man opened the door, glanced inside, and hesitantly said, "Someone's here to pick up Ms. Christian."

Wesley glanced at his watch, unhappy to realize how late it was. Time had flown by. He hadn't had such an engaging conversation in a long time. His doubts and disdain for Lily vanished. He now admired her.

"Lily," he said, dropping formalities, "I appreciate your insights. Would you consider joining my team to further your career?"

Lily was surprised by the offer. It was an honor, the highest affirmation a perfumer could receive. However, she hesitated. She was keen on creating her own line of fragrances, having lost opportunities recently due to Nathaniel selling her work under other names. Although tempting, she shook her head.

"Thank you, but I'd like to continue developing in Hyderland. My current company suits me well, and I still have much to learn. I'm very grateful for your offer!"

Wesley was surprised by her rejection. No one had ever refused him before.

"You know Westwood is the city of perfumes. I'm not disparaging Hyderland, but I've yet to see it produce any top-tier perfumers. You're wasting your talent there," he said, lamenting her decision.