Chapter 70 She Suddenly Became the Center of Attention
The tense atmosphere relaxed as the host and the audience burst into laughter.
"Ms. Taylor, you're quite humorous! Indeed, as a senior, Clombert is the example we juniors can learn from, but not everyone can grasp the essence of his work. Ms. Taylor, how much do you think you could grasp?" The question carried a hint of challenge. The host aimed to ignite conversation and inject enthusiasm into the event.
Due to the earlier banter, everyone was now eagerly awaiting Evelyn's response.
The question seemed simple, but the answer required a delicate balance. Being too assertive would come off as arrogant while being too modest might imply a lack of confidence.
Evelyn smiled at the host and replied, "I dare not claim to comprehend a master's creativity fully. As perfumers, we all know that each creation is a unique expression of inspiration and insight. The creative process itself often brings new ideas and feelings. Our individuality ensures that we can never fully understand what goes on in another's mind."
She added, "I can't comprehend a master's creativity. I only share my thoughts and feelings about this new fragrance." Evelyn's confident demeanor captivated the audience. Their gaze was drawn to her, and they found themselves nodding in agreement with her words.
On the second floor of the venue, a man in a private room observed the scene with a faint smile. The presence of several new perfumers had added a lively atmosphere to the event. It was a place for learning, networking, and discovering talent.
Meanwhile, Vivian's mood grew increasingly melancholic and restless.
Everyone seemed exceptional and received attention, while she felt forgotten and overlooked. Despite her numerous awards and hard work, it seemed no one truly knew her.
Vivian's eyes darkened, and a sense of frustration enveloped her. She regretted coming. She felt she had only brought humiliation upon herself.
As she stood up, ready to leave, the host suddenly called out, "Excuse me, the lady in the red dress, would you please come forward?"
It felt all the spotlights were on her, making it impossible for her to deny. Vivian stiffened her back and turned around. She held onto a glimmer of hope that it might be a mistake.
However, the host smiled, "Please come up on stage."
Vivian was lost for words.
Although she was reluctant to walk to the stage, she had to do that because she didn't want to lose face in front of so many people, especially Evelyn. With slow steps, she made her way to the stage and avoided any gaze that might make her feel ashamed.
Once on stage, the host asked, "What is your name, miss?"
Vivian remained silent for a moment, her mind in a daze.
"Miss?" the host called out again, bringing her back to reality.
Vivian looked at him and finally managed to say, "I."
Her voice sounded hoarse, and she quickly cleared her throat, trying to compose herself.
"I'm Vivian Reed, a perfumer from Liavian Perfumes in Lindwood City," she replied and forced a smile.
The host quickly responded, "Ms. Reed, a beautiful name for a talented individual. Ms. Taylor, who was here earlier, is also from Lindwood City. It seems Lindwood City not only produces perfumers but also beauties!"
The people below laughed. Some looked at Vivian, while others glanced at Evelyn.
Vivian's gaze naturally shifted toward Evelyn and she said, "Yes, Ms. Taylor and I are classmates."
After the pleasantries, the host redirected the conversation, and said, "Ms. Taylor's performance was outstanding. I'm sure Ms. Reed won't disappoint us."
"A talented young perfumer creates the next fragrance to be evaluated. Despite her young age, she has already won two international awards, and she is here with us today!" the host added.
Vivian, who had just started to relax, immediately tensed up again. She had thought she could make up a few things, relying on her foundation in perfumery.
Even if she was wrong, she could still praise the fragrance in general terms, and no one would scrutinize her too much.
But now, she couldn't pretend when she heard that. Being exposed on the spot would be unbearable for her. In that instant, she wished she could escape. However, it seemed her feet were rooted to the ground, and she couldn't move.
Her sweat was already uncontrollable.
"Ms. Reed, don't be nervous. Our master is very approachable. How about we present the work first for your evaluation, and then we'll invite the master herself?" the host suggested.
Vivian tried to speak, but not even a 'good could come out. She stared blankly as the staff brought the work up and placed it on the table in front of her.
The host said, "Ms. Reed, you can start."
She took hesitant steps as if the object in front of her was not a perfume but a bomb. She could almost foresee the ridicule and mockery she would face later. She felt a chill run down her spine, but there was nowhere to escape.
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