"If we announce a public engagement, Morgan Fragrance triples its valuation before relaunch," he explained during a late-night financial triage session where Serena served glittering forecasts like dessert.
"And after?" Lila asked suspiciously.
He walked toward her holding a sample strip dipped with her scent, and for a moment his voice softened without permission.
"After," he said, "you design a new formula that makes me believe storms don't punish the brave."
Lila stared.
"You don't need fake engagement," she said. "You need therapy and an umbrella."
He almost smiled. Almost. Which emotionally counted like 0.8 smiles.
She continued:"I'm agreeing for my mother's name. Not my heart."
Dorian nodded once, extremely slowly.
"Lila Morgan, we begin with your mother's legacy. Then we see who files the emotional paperwork afterward."