"Jesus!" I jump back, my hand flying to my chest as I face Vandiver
"I apologize, miss."
"Mr. Van... I am just going into the next store to buy raw formulation materials," I say, pointing aggressively at the glass storefront. Honestly, sometimes he acts like I’m an escaped convict.
He nods sharply and steps back toward the car while I walk into the fragrant interior of the shop.
The air is an intoxicating mix of absolute jasmine, rich amber, and distilled alcohol.
"Good morning, miss," a voice calls out.
"Good morning." My throat tightens, my heart gaining a frantic new beat as I take in the rows of premium imported perfumes on the right and the massive shelves of raw chemical bases, essential oils, and amber glass bottles on the left.
"How can I assist you today?"
"I need the fo
