The room fell into a tense silence as the auctioneer's anger reverberated, casting a shadow over Maxwell 's failed attempt to follow through with the purchase. All eyes were fixed on the disgruntled bidder, awaiting his response, while whispers continued to circulate, casting doubts."Did you hear that? Maxwell couldn't make the payment!""Seems like he was all talk and no substance.""I knew it! He was just trying to show off.""He's embarrassed now, isn't he?""I can't believe he wasted everyone's time!""Maybe he was bluffing from the beginning.""Looks like his wallet couldn't match his ego."Everyone kept saying what they thought. Maxwell was embarrassed every second as the people kept blurting out words.Elora looked at Maxwell with a mischievous glint in her eyes and couldn't resist mocking him in his moment of embarrassment. She stepped closer, her voice dripping with sarcasm."Well, well, Maxwell ," She taunted, her tone filled with amusement. "You were acting like the god of
Ethan smiled triumphantly as he turned back and made his way back to his seat. "You've made the right choice," he stated calmly.The auctioneer, still harboring a hint of anger, replied, "Why not make it $400,000, and we can settle everything?"The auctioneer, still harboring a hint of anger, replied, "Why not make it $400,000, and we can settle everything?"The smile on Ethan's face faded, and he stared at the man coldly, his eyes piercing with determination.The auctioneer gulped nervously and quickly retracted his statement. "I was just joking, never mind. Just pay the $300,000 and take it. Leave."Ethan's smile returned, and he pulled out his phone to initiate the transfer. "I'm done. My girlfriend's bracelet is now officially mine," he declared confidently.The auctioneer stared at him, a mix of frustration and resignation in his eyes. He carefully packaged the bracelet and handed it to Ethan.With the bracelet in his possession, Ethan smiled and walked towards the door. However,
The cab smoothly navigated through the bustling streets of the city, carrying Ethan and Sophia towards the highly recommended Australian restaurant. Along the way, they enjoyed glimpses of the vibrant cityscape, adorned with towering buildings and a lively atmosphere.As they arrived at their destination, the cab pulled up in front of a charming, modern establishment. The restaurant's exterior boasted a sleek design, with large glass windows that allowed natural light to filter into the dining area. A tastefully crafted sign adorned the entrance, displaying the name of the restaurant in elegant lettering.Upon entering, Ethan and Sophia were greeted by an inviting ambiance that exuded a sophisticated yet welcoming vibe. Soft lighting casts a warm glow over the space, accentuating the tasteful décor and carefully selected furnishings. The interior was a blend of contemporary aesthetics and subtle Australian influences, with nods to the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage.A f
"Thank you, Sophie." Ethan said with a smile.Sophia's gaze shifted towards the package beside her, her curiosity reignited. She couldn't help but wonder about the enigmatic bracelet that had caused such a stir. Her voice tinged with intrigue, she turned her attention back to Ethan and asked, "Ethan, can you tell me about the bracelet? How did you manage to acquire it? The price was $30 million due to the bid."Ethan's eyes flickered towards the package before meeting Sophia's gaze. He contemplated for a moment, his expression thoughtful, before finally deciding to say something."Well, Sophia, it's a bit of a long story," he began, his voice carrying a hint of mystery. "You see, I have connections in unexpected places. Sophia leaned forward, her curiosity growing stronger by the second. "Connections? What kind of connections?" she inquired, her voice filled with anticipation.Ethan leaned back in his chair, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Let's just say I've had
Ethan's brow furrowed with concern. He leaned forward, giving her his full attention. "Please, Sophia, tell me what's been bothering you. I'm here to listen and support you."Sophia took a deep breath, her voice filled with sincerity. "Ethan, I've developed deep…Ring!" Just then, as Ethan and Sophia were engrossed in their conversation, Ethan's phone abruptly started ringing, interrupting their chat. He reached for his phone and noticed that it was a call from Lily, his ex-wife, on his secret number. His brows furrowed with surprise and a hint of apprehension.Ethan cleared his throat, feeling a mixture of curiosity and concern. He looked at Sophia apologetically and said, "I'm sorry, Sophia. I need to take this call. It's from someone I know."Sophia's expression softened, understanding the gravity of the situation. She nodded and replied, "Of course, take your time. I'll be right here." Even though her tone sounded normal she was a little bit disappointed.Ethan excused himself fr
Sophia's brows furrowed as she found herself taken aback by Leo's sudden approach. She mustered a heavy frown and couldn't help but inquire with a hint of skepticism, "Who are you?"Leo, undeterred by her initial reaction, maintained his charming smile and replied, "I'm Leo Wood, the owner of this establishment."Sophia repeated his words, her voice laced with surprise: "The owner here?" She crossed her arms, still uncertain about Leo's intentions. When he extended his hand for a handshake, she hesitated, refraining from reciprocating the gesture. With a touch of aloofness, she introduced herself,"I'm Sophia Madison."Leo, undeterred by her reserved demeanor, couldn't help but offer his sincere admiration, his voice filled with genuine compliments."You're truly exquisite, Sophia. I must say, I've never encountered someone as stunning as you."Sophia, maintaining her composure despite the flattering words, graciously acknowledged his compliment. "Thank you for your kind words, Mr. Wo
Ethan, who didn't quite understand Sophia's intentions, furrowed his brow and responded, "We are friends, but you want us to become more than friends? Hmm, you mean best friends?"Sophia was taken aback, realizing that Ethan hadn't grasped what she was trying to convey. She hesitated for a moment, contemplating whether to explain further, but ultimately forced a smile and replied, "Yes, best friends, Ethan. That's what I meant."Sensing that something was amiss, Ethan reached out and took Sophia's hand. He chuckled softly and said, "Are you sighing because of this, Sophia? Don't worry, I'll always be there for you."Sophia felt a surge of emotions welling up inside her, and a tear escaped from her eye. She was taken aback by her own reaction.Concerned, Ethan looked at her with surprise and asked, "What's wrong, Sophie? Did I do something wrong? Say something wrong?"Sophia shook her head and managed to compose herself. She replied, "No, Ethan, you didn't do anything wrong. Your wor
Elora was taken aback, her eyes widening in surprise as she saw Ethan by the door. She stammered, "Brother-in-law, you're here? How long have you been standing there?"Ethan replied, "I've been here for a while, and I heard everything you guys were talking about."Elora lowered her head and asked, "You mean you heard even the discussion about Aureus?"Ethan let out a sigh and responded, "Yes, I did."Elora nodded and said, "Sister didn't want you to know, but since you do, I'm going to plead on her behalf."Thud!"Suddenly, Elora fell to her knees, surprising Ethan. He quickly reached out and lifted her back to her feet, saying,"Why are you kneeling for such a matter? I hate it."Elora nodded, her eyes filled with sincerity. "I'm sorry, brother-in-law. I just wanted to help."Ethan reassured her, "It's okay. Now that I know, I'll make a call and get everything fixed."Elora couldn't contain her relief and gratitude. "Really? You'll do it?"Ethan smiled and said, "Why not? I love Soph