Chapter 32
Massimo
M r. Dev’s stride is confident, measured exactly what you’d expect from the richest man in the world. He doesn’t waste movement, doesn’t indulge in idle chatter. But his eyes? Sharp. Taking in everything.
Xavier flanks him on the right, stoic as ever, while Cole handles most of the talking. I bring up the rear, letting my department speak for itself as we lead our guest onto the second floor of House of Aphrodite. The floor is dedicated to Omega-specific design, innovation, and sensory technology.
“This is where comfort meets chemistry,” I say when Mr. Dev pauses just inside the doors. “Everything here is built around the unique needs of Omegas. Products, textiles, nesting supplies. It’s both a science and an art.”
We pass sleek displays of seasonal collections: everything from scent-neutralizing sleepwear to therapeutic weighted blankets laced with scent-retaining thread. High ceilings, soft lighting, a gentle temperature gradient... it’s a sensory-safe haven.
“Every item here is tested against real Omega preferences and stress responses,” I continue. “We don’t just guess what comforts them. We study it. Design it. Craft it to be instinctive.”
Mr. Dev nods once, silently impressed.
Next stop: Sébastien’s domain. The newly built Fragrance Innovation Lab is a masterpiece with glass walls, temperature- and scent-controlled chambers, and endless rows of rare ingredients lining matte black shelving. It’s modern alchemy. Clinical and creative all at once.
“We’ve recently brought on a new master perfumer,” I say. “Sébastien Chevalier. Formerly of Chevalier Aromatique in Grasse, France. His work’s been internationally recognized.”
Mr. Dev’s eyes flick to a signature bottle on display: Coeur de Minuit , a Sébastien original. He actually smiles.
“I’ve gifted that one before,” he says. “It lingers well.”
“Better than expected,” Cole replies smoothly. “We’re building an exclusive line with him: House of Aphrodite's signature scents, customized per dynamic.”
With the tour complete, we guide him to one of the executive boardrooms. Papers are reviewed. Details discussed. Contracts signed. It’s only as we’re winding down, final signatures in place, that the door opens behind us, and Rowan enters. She’s followed by Anaya, glowing with excitement, and Sébastien, who gives me the barest nod before stepping back to let the princess shine.
Anaya crosses to her father, bubbling over. “Baba, she’s perfect . Rowan is everything I told you she would be and more.”
Mr. Dev rises slightly from his chair when Rowan enters, a pleased expression settling over his face.
“Ah, Ms. Hart,” he says warmly. “Wonderful to see you again. My daughter hasn’t stopped talking about you.”
Anaya beams beside her father, her hand wrapped tightly around Rowan’s wrist. “Because she’s brilliant.”
Massimo stands, offering Rowan and Sébastien a nod of welcome. “We’re just wrapping up,” he says smoothly, then gestures toward the remaining open seats. “Perfect timing.”
Anaya practically vibrates with excitement, still holding onto Rowan’s wrist as if she might float away otherwise. “Baba, Sébastien is going to design a signature fragrance just for the ceremony! Something completely unique for our pack. It’ll only ever belong to us.”
Mr. Dev raises his brows, clearly impressed. “Is that so?” His eyes flick to Sébastien, who inclines his head with quiet confidence.
“I’d be honored,” Sébastien replies smoothly, his French accent curling around the words like silk. “It will be tailored to your bond, your energy. Something eternal.”
Anaya lets out a soft squeal. “And Rowan’s already talking about using gems and jewels in the nest design. Real ones, Baba. She knows what everything means. The symbolism, the energy, the emotion behind every detail. I want emeralds for grounding, moonstones for clarity, and rubies because, well, they’re red and dramatic and perfect for the passion of a bond.”
Mr. Dev chuckles, his gaze fond. “You always did have expensive taste.”
“And impeccable instincts,” she adds with a grin, squeezing Rowan’s arm affectionately. “I told you she was the one.”