The weeks following the meeting were nothing short of a whirlwind for Jeslyne. She had returned to her department with a renewed focus, determined to bring everything into order. With deadlines approaching and various new designs being prepped for upcoming events, the fashion department was busier than ever. Jeslyne worked late hours, overseeing new creations and managing fittings for the models. She barely had time to catch her breath as she ensured every detail was up to her standards.
The department buzzed with the rhythm of sewing machines and the soft rustle of fabrics being tailored. Jeslyne found herself constantly on her feet, reviewing sketches, inspecting materials, and coordinating with designers. Despite the long hours, she felt a sense of accomplishment with every dress that took shape and every design completed. But with the increased workload, three weeks flew by in a blur, leaving her drained but satisfied with the progress.
On the evening of the 25th, Jeslyne finally arrived home on time. As she entered the cozy little apartment, the familiar warmth of home welcomed her. The scent of her grandmother's cooking wafted through the air, and she smiled, feeling her stress dissolve in the comfort of family. Her younger brother was already at the table, and her grandmother was finishing up in the kitchen, humming softly in Italian.
"Smells amazing, Nonna," Jeslyne said, setting her bag down and joining them at the dining table.
Her grandmother beamed, placing a steaming bowl of pasta in front of her. "I made your favorite. You work too hard; you need something hearty to keep your energy up."
Her brother, Luca, grinned. "Yeah, Jeslyne, you've been a ghost lately. Do you even remember what it's like to have fun?"
Jeslyne laughed, reaching over to ruffle his hair. "Trust me, Luca, I haven't forgotten. It's just been a busy month. Soon enough, things will slow down, and I'll take you out somewhere."
Her grandmother smiled, shaking her head. "You've always been dedicated, cara mia, but remember, life is about more than work."
Jeslyne nodded, feeling the truth in her grandmother's words. The simple comfort of family and food lifted her spirits, and for the first time in weeks, she felt like she could unwind.
Meanwhile, Rolland had returned from Italy on the 22nd, hoping the trip would be a chance to reset, to find a reprieve from the chaotic thoughts he'd been having. But the moment he set foot back in his office, he realized nothing had changed. His mind kept drifting back to that scent—the intoxicating aroma of jasmine. In his dreams, he was haunted by a faceless woman whose mere presence seemed to stir something deep within him. And each time he tried to recall her face, it was Jeslyne's that appeared, unbidden yet vivid.
Confused by his own thoughts, Rolland buried himself in work, hoping the relentless schedule would dull his memory of her. But it seemed every corridor and every faint fragrance only reminded him of that elevator ride and the mystery that lingered in his mind. He found himself wandering down to her department on the 25th, uncharacteristically eager to see her again, only to be informed by her assistant that she had left early.
"What time does she usually finish?" he asked, maintaining his usual professional demeanor.
The assistant glanced at her watch, hesitant but polite. "She typically stays quite late, but today was a rare early day for her."
Rolland nodded, pretending to be indifferent. "No need to inform her I was here. It was simply routine," he added, almost to himself, before walking away, leaving the assistant with a puzzled expression.
That evening, Rolland joined his friends at an upscale club, hoping a night out would distract him. Dressed in all black, with a leather jacket thrown over his broad shoulders and his hair swept over his forehead, he blended effortlessly into the crowd. The darker look was an attempt to disguise himself, a rare departure from his usual polished appearance.
As he sat in the VIP section, nursing a drink and gazing down at the crowd, a sudden flash of recognition caught his eye. Jeslyne was there, laughing with a group of friends. She looked different out of her work attire, her hair loose, her outfit relaxed yet elegant. Rolland felt a strange pull in his chest, his heartbeat quickening as he watched her from afar.
Not wanting to let the moment slip, he excused himself from his friends and made his way down, weaving through the crowded club. Jeslyne stood near the bar, clearly enjoying herself, oblivious to his presence. She moved with ease, her laughter mixing with the music, her scent—the unmistakable jasmine—drifting through the air and reaching him even from a distance.
Rolland approached carefully, staying behind her just close enough to catch that familiar fragrance. The scent was almost intoxicating, stirring a strange longing he couldn't explain. Aware of the absurdity of his own actions, he kept a respectful distance, unwilling to startle her. But as he watched, he felt as though he was being drawn toward her, the jasmine pulling him into a memory he couldn't shake.
Jeslyne turned slightly, sensing someone close by, but Rolland quickly shifted his gaze, pretending to be just another patron as she turned back toward the bar. He stood still, conflicted yet intrigued, wondering how long he could keep this quiet pursuit going.