Lilah gazed into Gerard's sharp eyes and thought maybe she should create a scent with that kind of coldness to it.

Men's perfumes were a different beast from women's. There were more potential users, but the market was tighter.

Guys were more likely to wear the well-known classic fragrances, because these were safer options.

Occupying this market was a huge challenge for Lilah. Especially since this perfume was inspired by the man sitting before her.

He was nothing short of domineering, cold, and resolute!

Oh, and quite particular!

Lilah's first impression of Gerard had become completely entwined with this perfume.

Gerard had once declared his love for her in a grand, public way.

Likewise, Lilah was unafraid to express herself openly.

There was no point in hiding Windy's identity any longer; she intended to reveal it as a gift.

A grand gift.

"Will you watch my competition?"

"Of course."

"Then you will be as happy as Larry, I promise!"

A month separated Lilah from the perfume-making competition.

It was a tight squeeze, but enough time to formulate her masterpiece.

Inspiration, after all, could be a fickle muse, more crucial than any amount of preparation.

Laura buzzed with excitement during their phone calls, relentlessly updating Lilah about Windy's participation.

The news had even ignited the internet, with netizens christening the competition between Cloudy, Windy, and Karol as the "World War" of the perfume industry.

Lilah, however, simply smiled and dismissed the online hype.

Winning wasn't her sole purpose.

Soon, the deadline arrived. Lilah submitted her creation, her heart heavy with anticipation.

The competition spanned three weeks.

The first two were dedicated to up-and-coming perfumers, a breeding ground for big brands to scout hidden talents and potentially snatch them up on the spot.