Joanna's POV
I composed myself, leaving the meeting room with determined steps as I walked down the familiar street. When I returned to my flower shop, the moment I opened the door, the scent of flowers hit me like a renewed source of strength. I took a deep breath, trying to calm the turmoil within. Despite the weight of life's pressures bearing down on me like a massive boulder, I refused to allow myself to appear weak at any moment. I quickly dialed my brother Alex's number, but it went unanswered, amplifying my anxiety. I muttered a few curses under my breath, my worry for Alex’s situation growing stronger.
I threw myself into my work, meticulously watering the plants, placing the newly arrived flowers into the water to awaken them, and cleaning the work desk. Despite my fatigue, my movements remained skilled and efficient, as though every detail of the shop symbolized my resilience.
After finishing these tasks, I headed upstairs to the study. I urgently needed to find a high-paying job to pay off my debts. I turned on my computer, and the screen was filled with job postings. One advertisement, in particular, caught my eye—a local bar named Rousseau was looking for a special fragrance to replace the omega scent. The ad mentioned that this fragrance could provide a "pseudo-omega" scent for the bar's unique clientele, with high market demand and substantial profits. I read the ad in detail and saw that the position required knowledge of fragrances and communication with the bar’s procurement department to ensure the quality and supply of the fragrance. A glimmer of hope sparked in my eyes, and I decided to visit the bar later that evening to learn more.
As dusk fell and the city lights began to shine, casting a warm glow over the bustling streets, I prepared myself for the visit. I dressed in a way that balanced professionalism with propriety, applied light makeup, and used a spray to prevent any omega scent from spreading. Recalling earlier today when I almost revealed my omega scent in front of Andrew, I took a capsule to mask the omega smell. I selected a few types of fragrances from my workshop, feeling a surge of excitement. I believe this opportunity might be the key to improving my financial situation.
Locking the flower shop door behind me, I set off toward the bar with a mix of anxiety and anticipation. The bar was located on a busy street in the city center, brightly lit and filled with crowds. I quickly found the bar’s entrance—a somewhat old and worn building adorned with dim lights and intricate decorations.
Taking a deep breath, I walked into the bar. The doorman glanced at me but said nothing, allowing me inside. As I entered, the atmosphere was different from my memory of bars—there was a blend of mixed scents and lively music. I noticed a young man behind the bar, busy mixing drinks.
I approached him and introduced myself politely, "Hello, my name is Joanna. I saw your ad online about looking for a fragrance to replace the omega scent. I run a flower shop and also develop fragrances similar to Omega. I was wondering if we could discuss a potential collaboration. "
The young man looked up, eyeing me with a hint of curiosity. " I'm Henry. The boss isn’t here yet. But, are you an omega? Our boss prefers suppliers with an omega identity. "
I frowned slightly. “Why does the supplier need to be an omega?”
Henry explained, "Our fragrances need to have a certain aphrodisiac effect in some settings. Our boss believes only someone with omega experience can provide that effect. "
I paused, contemplating whether to reveal my omega identity in exchange for the job when I noticed a familiar figure entering the bar. Andrew Bennett, impeccably dressed in a tailored suit and exuding authority and elegance, walked in. His presence had a strong allure for me, causing my heart to race. He approached the bar and, after briefly glancing at me, took a seat two spots away from me.
" Henry, a strong drink, please," Andrew said, then casually glanced at me. " Miss Joanna, what a surprise to see you here. Has your flower shop found a buyer yet? If not, you should buy me a drink, and I might recommend a few buyers."
My expression shifted slightly, and I pressed my lips together. " Thank you, Mr. Andrew. I'll give you an answer about whether I need to sell the shop in three days. "
Turning to Henry with a sense of urgency, I added, "Mr. Henry, I’ve brought several types of pure natural essential oils and incense that I’ve created. Please show these samples to your boss and see if they meet your requirements. "
Andrew's eyes flickered with amusement as he spoke, " When did Sarah start considering beta-made fragrances? She usually favors those made by experienced omegas. "
I approached Andrew with a resolute look. "Mr. Andrew, if my products can be sold, it would help me pay off my debts more quickly, wouldn’t it "
Andrew gave me a cold, dismissive look, his gaze tinged with disdain and a hint of amusement. "Miss Joanna, you're right. But the amount you owe me isn't insignificant, and the proceeds from these fragrances might not even cover the interest."
Henry glanced at Andrew, who gave a slight nod, signaling that it was acceptable to take my samples.
Henry responded kindly, "Alright, Miss Joanna. I'll have these samples reviewed by the boss. "