Chapter 138: You Can Leave Now
Translator: _Min_
The content of the box completely stunned Song Ling when he examined them closer. He had seen all these items before; they were gifts Gu Dai had given him over the years.
The watch was for their first wedding anniversary, the suit for their second. The other items were gifts Gu Dai had prepared for various holidays and occasions. Each time he received a gift from her, he would dismiss it with icy scorn, tossing it carelessly into the trash.
He had never expected that after discarding these gifts, Gu Dai would retrieve them, one by one, carefully storing them in this box as if they were treasures.
But where was the gift for their third anniversary?
His eyes fell on the trash can. When he saw what was inside, he froze. He walked over, bent down, and picked up the tie.
This was the gift Gu Dai had given him for their third anniversary, the very day she mentioned divorce.
Using a towel, he gently wiped the dust off the necktie and placed it alongside the other gifts in the box. Just as he was about to close the box, he noticed something at the bottom—a picture frame. Curious, he reached in and pulled it out.
The frame held a painting of him and Gu Dai in their wedding attire, smiling at each other.
A look of bewilderment flashed in Song Ling’s eyes when he saw the painting. He had never shared such a moment with Gu Dai.
Gu Dai had never shown him this painting before, and he clearly remembered that she had stayed home for the past three years, never mingling with others. It was impossible for her to commission such a painting.
Suddenly, a possibility flashed through Song Ling’s mind.
Could Gu Dai have painted this herself?
As he focused on the painting more closely, Song Ling, who had seen many works of art over the years, recognized the skill and meticulous detail in this one. It was even better than what some masters could produce.
For a moment, he felt disoriented, unable to distinguish between reality and illusion. He even began to believe that he and Gu Dai had once shared such a moment.
Could Gu Dai also be skilled in painting?
As this thought crossed his mind, his phone suddenly rang.
Fragrance Master texted, “Mr. Song, I’ve arrived at the villa.”
Carrying the amulet, Song Ling descended the stairs to meet the Fragrance Master.
Song Ling said, “Take a look at this.”
The Fragrance Master took the amulet and casually sniffed it. Then he froze, his eyes widening in astonishment. He took another whiff, a look of fascination appearing in his eyes.
Just as he was about to smell it again, Song Ling swiftly snatched the amulet away. “Did you figure it out?” he asked, his voice tinged with coldness.
The Fragrance Master stared intently at Song Ling and shook his head regretfully. “No, I haven’t. I’ve been exposed to all kinds of renowned fragrances and perfumes over the years, and none of them compare to this scent. Even the fragrances I’ve personally crafted don’t come close.”
Song Ling’s gaze on the amulet deepened. “You can’t analyze what this fragrance is made of?”
The Fragrance Master shook his head again, disappointment lining his features. But then his eyes lit up, staring fervently at the amulet. “I think the reason 1 can’t analyze it is because of the cloth covering it. If we remove the cloth, we might be able to identify the ingredients. Mr. Song, should we open the amulet…?”
Before he could finish his sentence, Song Ling cut him off. “No!”
After uttering these words, Song Ling quickly tucked the amulet into his suit pocket, casting a wary glance at the Fragrance Master as if guarding against a thief.
The corners of the Fragrance Master’s mouth twitched. Not willing to give up so easily, he ventured another suggestion. “How about you introduce me to the person who crafted this fragrance? This is the first time I’ve encountered such a scent. They must be incredibly talented—probably even more skilled than I am. 1 wonder if they’re considering taking on an apprentice. If I’m lucky enough to become their pupil, my skills in fragrance crafting would surely improve!”
By now, Song Ling was no longer refuting the Fragrance Master. Instead, he ushered him out. “You can leave now.”
The Fragrance Master felt speechless at the moment.
Although he was reluctant, he had many collaborations with the Song Corporation and wanted to maintain that relationship. With no other choice, he turned around and left the villa..