The artwork was finally complete.
Ethan Sullivan handed her a handkerchief.
"You've worked hard, Ms. Sullivan."
Teaching children required patience. Even the smallest progress was worth celebrating.
Sophia Sullivan accepted the handkerchief and dabbed the sweat at her temple. She glanced at the embroidered logo and remarked casually, "A Paris limited edition. Requires connections to acquire. Worth around twenty thousand."
"You have a sharp eye."
"Saw it online by chance. But Mr. Sullivan, you're full of surprises."
"A gift from a business partner. Nothing special."
The subtle probing only deepened Ethan's interest in her.
As the lesson ended, Ethan escorted Sophia to the door. He turned to the elderly butler. "Emma has been working on ceramics for hours. Bring her some snacks. Children burn energy quickly."
On her way downstairs, Sophia discreetly surveyed the villa.
This private residence lay deep within the Sullivan estate, hidden behind bamboo groves. Every detail reflected the owner's tastes—lived-in and personal. A floor-to-ceiling display case caught her eye, filled with an array of perfumes.
Many were rare, discontinued masterpieces. Clearly, the collector had refined expertise.
Sophia arched a brow at Ethan's thoughtful instructions. The media painted him as an unfeeling tyrant, yet he showed such care for a child.
"No need to see me out, Mr. Sullivan." She turned with a polite smile. "I know the way."
Then her gaze froze.
Around Ethan's neck hung a necklace. Perhaps relaxed at home, he'd foregone his usual suit for a white shirt, the top button undone. The pendant peeked through—twin serpents entwined, identical to the snake bracelet her mother once wore.
"Escorting you is only part of it." Unaware of her scrutiny, Ethan spoke slowly. "There's another matter. I suffer from chronic migraines. Countless specialists found no cause."
"Yet strangely, only your perfumes bring relief. Even helps me sleep. I'd been searching for Crimson Serpent. Never imagined it was you."
He recalled their first meeting—Sophia spinning lies without blinking. Amusing, really. He'd caught the scent then, hoping for a lead. Little did he know the perfumer stood before him all along. What a roundabout chase.
"How unique. Others recognize brands—you recognize people."
Sophia's tone turned playful. She hadn't expected this either. If her creations eased his pain, all the better. Though whether it was the formula or technique remained unclear.
"I'd like to formally invite you to join Breeze Perfumes. With you, we could reach new heights. For your personal line, I'm willing to pay separately." Ethan's gaze held sincerity. "Name your price."
The offer tempted. Media exposure and Ethan's reputation had already tripled Breeze's stock. Investors flocked. Sophia's addition would be the crowning touch—though for Ethan, the latter mattered more.
"After so many dealings, we're practically friends, Mr. Sullivan. If my perfumes help your migraines, I'm glad. As a perfumer, that's honor enough." Her lips curved. "How could I profit from a friend?"
Her teasing lilt deepened as she reached out, fingers brushing the air near his collar.
"Actually, no need for complications. That necklace is lovely. Just give it to me."