“So, the ‘birth of a star’ scent you mentioned for the main dome,” he prompted, “how are you approaching that? What does a nascent star smell like?”

Cheryl found herself relaxing, her earlier social anxieties melting away. She described her research into the molecular compounds found in nebulae, the metallic tang of cosmic dust, the faint sweetness of interstellar sugars, the ozone-like freshness of nascent energy. 

She spoke of translating these abstract concepts into tangible olfactory notes, of building a scent that would evoke both the raw power and the delicate beauty of creation.

Dennis listened, occasionally interjecting with a thoughtful question or an appreciative hum. “It’s fascinating,” he said finally. 

“You’re not just making pretty smells; you’re telling stories. You’re giving people an experience they’ve never had before. That’s what we strive for here at the observatory – to broaden horizons, to spark wonder.”

They continued to talk for another half-hour, discussing everything from the gala’s theme to the best local coffee shops. Dennis shared anecdotes about past events, his easy humor making her laugh. 

He was effortlessly charming, attentive, and incredibly helpful. He offered his direct line, urging her to call him with any questions or concerns, no matter how small.

As the event began to wind down, Dennis walked her towards the exit. “It was truly great catching up, Cheryl,” he said, his hand briefly touching her arm in a friendly, reassuring gesture. 

“And please, don’t hesitate to lean on me for anything. I’m here to make this project a resounding success for you.”

Cheryl walked out into the cool night air, a sense of lightness replacing her earlier mild disappointment. Louis hadn’t been there, and the cosmic mystery he embodied remained intact. 

But she had found something else, something equally valuable: a tangible, grounded connection. Dennis was a breath of fresh air, a practical star in his own right, offering not just support, but a genuine interest that made her feel seen and valued. 

He represented a clear, uncomplicated path, a steady hand in the often-turbulent world of artistic creation. And for the first time, Cheryl allowed herself to consider that perhaps, a little less mystery and a little more reliability might not be such a bad thing after all. 

The thought, however fleeting, was a new and intriguing scent in her own personal narrative.