Chapter 69

The laboratories were generally located farther from the city center for several reasons. First, they required a large area, making suburban locations more affordable and readily available. Second, this minimized distractions for employees conducting experiments. Third, sourcing spices and raw materials was easier in the suburbs.

During her time at MN Inc., Lily’s laboratory was also on the city’s outskirts. However, Nathaniel’s limited capital meant he only rented half of an old factory building. He frequently complained about the cost of raw materials.

Nathaniel, despite these challenges, always expressed enthusiasm for the finished product, often discussing future plans with Lily—plans that, ultimately, remained just talk. Although the location Jenny provided was remote, Lily could reach it by taxi. However, instead of the expected factory, she found a towering building. While seemingly unremarkable in architecture, its presence in that area was unexpected. "Ms. Gray, I'm here," Lily called to Jenny, standing at the locked building entrance, which featured security guards and access control.

"Give me five minutes," Jenny replied curtly, quickly ending the call. Lily waited at the deserted, sparsely populated area, surprised by Rebirth's lab’s location.

The wealth of La Beauté Group, Rebirth's backers, explained the stark contrast to Lily's previous experience in the old factory; an unfamiliar observer might easily mistake it for a mechanical parts factory.

Five minutes later, Jenny emerged. Unlike their previous encounter, she wore a white coat and cap, her hair pulled back, presenting a completely professional appearance. After swiping an access card, she said coldly, "Come in. Remember, ask few questions, speak little, and listen carefully. Understand?"

Lily nodded. "Okay."

The elevator ascended to the seventh floor. Upon exiting, someone handed Lily a white coat, cap, and shoe covers. Familiar with the procedure, she quickly donned them and completed the necessary disinfection.

Lily wondered if Jenny was letting her participate in an experiment, but, heeding Jenny's instructions, remained silent, following her lead. The disinfectant soap, as expected for perfumers, was unscented to avoid affecting their olfactory judgment, although thorough disinfection wasn't strictly necessary. However, upon entering the lab, Lily found it unlike any she'd known. A strange, overpowering stench filled the room, nearly causing her to vomit. She fought back nausea while glancing at Jenny, who showed no reaction to the odor, her expression grim.

"Ms. Gray, is this my second test?" Lily ventured. "Why? Are you afraid?" Jenny countered.