Chapter 23%
Emma’s POVI
Inside the studio, there were perfume bottles, essential oil test strips, and a variety of professional perfumery equipment spread out everywhere.
“Wow! This is amazing!” I said, feeling both overwhelmed and excited
Chase smiled softly, reaching out to ruffle my hair. “If you like it, that’s all that matters.”
His smile was warm, and his affection for me was clear in his eyes. It gave me a sense of peace I had never known before.
“Your happiness is my happiness,” he added, his voice full of genuine care.
As I looked around the studio, I couldn’t help but think about how different this felt compared to my past with Jason.
During my seven years with him, I never experienced this kind of respect or understanding. Jason had always been distant, and commanding, as if I was simply there to serve him.!!
But Chase?
He saw me as an equal, respecting my dreams and supporting my career.
It was like finding an oasis in the desert, something I’d never imagined but desperately needed. The relief, the sweetness of it all, was intoxicating.X
Perfume had always been more than just an accessory to me. It was a form of expression, an emotional outlet. I had always believed that the right fragrance could capture your essence, your soul.!
So, I threw myself fully into developing my perfume line.X
The first fragrance I created was called “Rebirth.”
The top notes were fresh citrus and green leaves, the heart notes were delicate jasmine and rose, and the base notes were warm sandalwood and musk. It felt like a reflection of where I was in my life: letting go of the past and embracing a brand–new beginning.
When “Rebirth launched, the response was overwhelming
Within days, it was trending across social media. Fashion bloggers recommended it, and even a few celebrities shared photos using “Rebirth” on their platforms.
Seeing that, an overwhelming sense of accomplishment flooded through me. I had created something meaningful, something that people loved.
But, as with everything in life, the joy was short–lived.
Just when I thought i could finally enjoy the fruits of my labor. Jason somehow managed to get my contact information and started bombarding me with messages and calls.
[Emma, why did you leave me? Did Chase tempt you with money?]
Emma, do you know how much I love you? I can’t live without you!!
[Emma, if you dare to be with Chase. I will post all your old photos online!]
I stared at the threatening messages, disgusted. I immediately blocked his number and moved on.!!
Out of sight. Out of mind!
At least, that’s what I thought
But Jason, being Jason, wasn’t one to take no for an answer
He somehow found my studio. Despite the security guards trying to stop him, he barged right in.
Furious, Jason pointed at me, his face twisted in rage. “Emma, you really are something! You slept with me–and other guys–for money?”
I scoffed. “Your so–called love is treating me like your personal servant, coming and going whenever you please? Your love is taking everything I gave you and then complaining that I didn’t bring you anything good. You disgust me!”
His face changed as a flicker of desperation appeared in his eyes. “Please, Emma, listen to me. Ava was sick, I was just looking after her. I swear I won’t do it again, Please, forgive me, okay? Let’s start fresh,
The more he spoke, the more repulsed I felt
Seven years…!!
It might not have been a
The lies…!
The broken trust.
a lifetime, but it was more than enough time for him to bum everything to the ground.
These are the things I could never go back to.!!
I pointed toward the door, my voice sharp and final. “Get out. I don’t ever want to see you again, Jason”
Jason was stunned, clearly not expecting me to be so resolute. His shock quickly turned to fury.!!
He took a step forward, grabbing my wrist with an intensity I hadn’t seen before. His voice was thick with malice.
