Chapter 600

Noah, a professional perfumer, admitted the perfume's exquisite quality, though his outward calm masked his shock. Since entering the industry, he'd experimented with countless scents and studied renowned perfumers. Never had he encountered someone who could craft such sophisticated fragrances from such humble materials.

This revelation drastically shifted his perspective. He, along with his instructors and peers, had always believed high-quality ingredients were essential for fine perfume—akin to the belief that exceptional individuals produce exceptional offspring. His understanding of perfumery was radically altered.

"Why don't we discuss the price of the water hyssop?" Lily's disinterest in a pointless competition was evident. However, her desire for the herbs remained. "Since you deem these water hyssops substandard, why waste your time and money—and mine—to antagonize me?"

Initially, Noah had merely sought to challenge her, but his genuine curiosity piqued. Studying her intently, he asked, "If they're unimportant, why acquire them? You've said they're not the finest spices; why the insistence?" Honestly, he cared little for the water hyssop, but her eagerness, even willingness to demonstrate its use in her perfume, made him reluctant to sell. Knowing her preferences felt like uncovering a weakness—a key to setting his terms.

"That's for me to know, and for you to find out," Lily retorted coldly. "My intentions are none of your concern."

"Then I'll stay and discover their secrets myself. Perhaps these water hyssops are rare herbs or spices," he countered, intending to provoke her.

Noah anticipated her capitulation, even pleading. He was wrong. He underestimated Lily's character. Despite her intense desire for the herbs, her principles remained unshaken. His attempts at coercion would fail; blackmail was utterly repugnant to her. A polite request might have yielded a different result, but his threats were a grave miscalculation.

She sneered, gathered her luggage, and declared, "Mr. Richards, you may research water hyssop at your leisure. I'm leaving!"

Stunned, Noah followed her to the entrance, shocked by her resolve. He rushed after her, grasping her wrist. "You don't want the herbs anymore? I thought you valued them?"

Lily, irritated by his grasp, demanded, "Let go!"

"How can you leave? Your water hyssops will be gone! I'll—" he paused, then threatened, "—burn them to ashes!"