Hmmm, the sense of smell is very strong, but I do not think that it would work, unless you used a LOT of vanilla candles. I know senses can be powerful triggers for memories so if perhaps this person has a strong memory from the smell of vanilla it will override the taste he/she is actually experiencing. Other than your question, the poem was delightful and quite humorous. Great job and keep writing!

Placebo is powerful.

''and a smile in my eyes
that illuminated the room''

Feel the trick was in the smiling eyes ,the sense of smell got lost .

Loved going through it ;)

A smile is enough to trick, though I have to agree with Jad you would need a lot of vanilla scented candles! All in all a delightful and playful read :)

"The greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist." -The Usual Suspects. It's not the candles alone but the smile illuminating his heart that masked the smell of the cinnamon-apple. But, now, isn't the devil in the details! Why the deception? Is he deathly allergic to one or the other? Or perhaps the combination will put him into a stupor from which only love's true kiss will awaken him. Ah, but then, you will surely withhold that release and keep him in your spell forever. Let every poor lad beware the aroma of vanilla henceforth!

Judging Comment:

This piece is phenomenal. It has detail and beauty in so few words. IT truly captures the attention of the audience and it is extraordinarily penned. There is a tone of sadness or maybe its just disappointment in the character's self for deceiving someone they care about, but that tone is covered up by the triumph of having successfully fooled them. Granted there are many ways to take this piece on a much deeper level. It's beautiful how honest the author was with us as readers. The word choice is stunning. The flow is beautiful and really, this piece is absolutely wonderful all together. Everything about it is just so perfect.