Aurora pushed open the laboratory door and froze in astonishment. The space stretched over 500 square meters, filled with neatly arranged essential oils, raw materials, test tubes, and instruments.
“After you left, Mr. Barnet had this place renovated,” Mona explained. “He even ensured it was ventilated for two months. All the equipment was moved in just a few days ago.”
Mona had come to understand Julian better after witnessing the lengths he went to for Aurora. She regretted her earlier assumptions, mistaking him for one of those frivolous playboys who would discard Aurora after losing interest. Back then, she had even risked herself to expose Julian, hoping to push Aurora toward Asher.
But Julian proved her wrong. He treated Aurora with care and devotion, no less than Asher ever did. His grand effort to celebrate Aurora’s last birthday had moved Mona deeply. It was then she fully accepted him. She now believed Aurora would find happiness with Julian.
“He’s really thoughtful,” Aurora said softly. She had just returned, and Julian had already surprised her multiple times.
“Mr. Barnet said he only cares that you like it,” Mona added with a smile. “He even brought in a perfumery team from New York to help you with future creations. They’ll arrive tomorrow.”
“Really? That’s good news. Where are the perfume samples I brought back?” Aurora asked.
“Mr. Barnet already had them delivered. Here.” Mona handed her a finely crafted bottle-Aurora and Denis Vukic’s painstaking creation.
“Mona, this is the new perfume I developed. Take a whiff,” Aurora said, opening the bottle. So far, only she and Denis had experienced the scent. Not even Asher had smelled it.
Mona inhaled deeply. The fragrance was captivating. It wasn’t overly sweet or cloying-fresh and elegant, with an indescribable quality that lingered.
“How is it?” Aurora asked, reading Mona’s expression.
“I love it,” Mona said, her eyes shining. “It’s sweet but with a hint of tartness, like the freshness of soil after a rainstorm. It’s magical. How did you create this?”
Aurora smiled knowingly. She understood Mona’s tastes. Mona rarely used perfume, and when necessary, she only opted for the faintest scents. Winning her approval confirmed the perfume’s appeal. Aurora had been confident from the start-no woman would resist this fragrance.
“This scent,” Aurora began, “is like the feeling of first love-sweet with a hint of sourness. Most first loves are bittersweet, but when you look back, they’re beautiful memories. Everyone has a first love, and this perfume will take people back to those youthful, tender years.”
Mona furrowed her brow. “Won’t that limit the audience to younger girls? If that’s the case, the pricing will need to be mid-range. But our company’s goal is to create mid-to-high-end products, aiming for international standards. This perfume is our first launch, and it sets the tone for our brand. It’s crucial.
“Also, I’ve heard that Marcos is launching a perfume called First Love around the same time. The concept seems similar. Marcos already has a strong reputation and loyal customers, while we’re a new, unknown company. The market isn’t open to us yet. If the two perfumes are similar, we’ll lose in terms of credibility and branding.”
Mona’s analysis was sharp and on point. Her experience showed.
Aurora, however, smiled faintly. “That’s exactly why I created this scent. If the styles are similar, and I win, the satisfaction will be even greater.”
Mona was momentarily speechless. She had forgotten about Aurora’s relentless determination. Back in New York, Aurora had been known for her daring ambitions, always setting bold goals and achieving them no matter the cost.
“Fine,” Mona sighed. “Marcos has really provoked you this time. You’re planning to beat him at his own game.”
“If I lose, so what?” Aurora shrugged. “Life goes on. With this experience, I’ll be better prepared next time.”
“Of course you’d say that,” Mona said, shaking her head. “You’ve always been confident. Fine, I’ll wish you victory in advance.”
“Naturally,” Aurora replied with a smirk. “I’ve already arranged for the packaging design back in New York. The scent is finalized. Once the team arrives, we can begin mass production. We’ll launch a limited edition of 1, 000 bottles on Christmas Day to gauge the market.
“Oh, and you’re wrong about the target audience. This perfume isn’t just for young girls. Everyone has a first love, even an 80-year-old grandmother. And this scent isn’t too strong or light-it’s versatile. Perfect for students, professionals, or grand events. The audience is broad. As long as people like the scent, I won’t lose.”
Her confidence shone through her smile.
“Alright,” Mona said, nodding. “With just two weeks until the launch, time is tight. I’ll handle the paperwork, venue rental, and other logistics.”
“Thank you, Mona,” Aurora said, patting her shoulder.
“This is my job,” Mona replied. “The skincare line is almost ready too. Hopefully, the perfume’s success will boost sales.”
Aurora nodded. The pressure was mounting. If the perfume failed, the rest of the product line would suffer. But if it succeeded, the company’s future would be bright. She steeled herself, determined to succeed.
The perfume launch consumed Aurora’s time, leaving her in a whirlwind of work. Julian, too, found himself working late.
Rocky, his assistant, couldn’t help but ask, “Sir, aren’t you going home to Miss Montgomery?”
Julian’s face darkened. “She’s working late too.”
It had been a long time since Julian had stayed late at the office. But now, driven by Aurora’s relentless energy, he had little choice.