As Kevin's words hung in the air, Alana wasted no time joining the conversation, eager to add her own barbs to the mix. "Frankly, I'm surprised to see you here, Calvin," she remarked, her tone dripping with thinly veiled contempt. Her gaze swept over Calvin, from his meticulously tailored suit to his polished shoes, with a disdainful flick of her eyes."That suit you're wearing," she continued, her voice laced with skepticism, "it's far too expensive for someone like you. Where did you get the money for it? Borrowing, perhaps?" Her words were like icy daggers, cutting through the already tense atmosphere, eliciting murmurs of agreement from the surrounding guests.Calvin, however, remained composed in the face of her accusations. He met Alana's gaze squarely, his expression unwavering. "Alana, that is none of your concern," he stated firmly, his voice tinged with defiance. "You claim to be from high society, but your attitude doesn't reflect it. It's true that money can't buy you clas
Christina's expression softened as she leaned in closer to Calvin, her voice barely above a whisper amidst the hum of the bustling ballroom. "I'm truly sorry about how they treated you," she murmured, her tone laced with regret. "They can be insufferable at times, but please don't let it ruin your evening."Calvin met her gaze with a grateful smile, his eyes reflecting warmth. "Thank you, Christina," he replied softly, his voice carrying a note of appreciation. "Honestly, I've dealt with worse. Their opinions don't matter to me."Christina breathed a sigh of relief, her features softening with genuine concern. "I'm glad to hear that," she said, her eyes conveying gratitude. "You deserve better than their judgmental attitudes."Their exchange was brief but meaningful, a silent understanding passing between them amidst the anticipation that filled the room. As the charity ball was on the brink of commencing, the master of ceremonies stepped onto the stage, his presence commanding the at
Calvin and Christina glanced in Nancy's direction, noticing her intense glare directed at them. Nancy's voice, edged with anger. Her voice was full of anger, “I will ask again. Are you talking about me?”Christina responded nonchalantly, "Well, if we were, would it be a problem?" Her casual demeanor seemed to irk Nancy even more, who let out an exasperated growl.Turning her attention back to the fashion show, Christina maintained her composed stance, refusing to be drawn into further confrontation with Nancy. Calvin just smiled, knowing that Christina and Nancy were like fire and ice. As the show progressed, showcasing one exquisite ensemble after another, the atmosphere in the room was electric with anticipation.As the MC's voice reverberated through the grand ballroom, guests turned their attention to the sleek tablets stationed at their tables. The devices glowed softly in the dim light, displaying a dazzling array of haute couture and ready-to-wear ensembles showcased in the fir
Calvin turned to face Louis squarely, his expression unwavering as he addressed the barb thrown his way. "I simply wasn't interested in the showcased collections," he stated calmly, refusing to let Louis's comment ruffle his feathers.Kevin Lang, seated not far from Louis, chuckled at Calvin's response, his amusement evident. "Oh, come on, Calvin," he interjected, his tone mocking. "Let's be honest here. We all know your financial situation. You just don't want to admit it." His words were punctuated by the laughter of those within earshot, the air thick with mockery.Alana joined in with a smirk, her amusement mirroring Kevin's. "Looks like you've been caught, Calvin," she teased, her tone dripping with condescension. The laughter around the table swelled, fueled by the derision directed at Calvin.Kevin, seizing the opportunity to further belittle Calvin, leaned forward with a smirk. "Christina only invited you for entertainment, Calvin," he declared, his words cutting. "While the r
Christina intervened once again, her voice cutting through the tension like a blade as she addressed Kevin Lang, her words laced with authority. "Dr. Lang, please maintain your composure and refrain from disrupting the proceedings," she admonished, her gaze unwavering.Alana, however, wasted no time in leaping to Kevin's defense, her features twisted with disdain as she hurled accusations towards Calvin. "Calvin has no place gracing the halls of such esteemed gatherings. His presence here is nothing short of discomfort for everyone," she argued vehemently, shooting a venomous glare in Calvin's direction.Calvin swallowed hard, a bitter taste rising in his throat as he felt the sting of Alana's words. How had he once found solace in her presence, he wondered, now feeling only a sense of betrayal.But Christina refused to let Alana's accusations go unchallenged. "Calvin has earned his place here. He's a respected individual," she declared emphatically, her voice ringing with conviction.
After the brief intermission, the MC's voice resonated through the grand hall, its timbre commanding attention as it reverberated off the ornate walls, signaling the resumption of the auction proceedings. With a flourish, he gestured towards the draped pedestal at the center of the stage, where the next item awaited—a gleaming, intricately carved chest adorned with gilded accents, purported to hold within it a health-enhancing antique of unparalleled rarity: a pearl from the Eastern Sea.As the spotlight illuminated the chest, casting a radiant glow upon its surface, a hushed murmur swept through the assembled crowd, each whispered word tinged with anticipation and awe. The mere mention of such a coveted treasure sent a ripple of excitement coursing through the room, igniting a fervor of whispered conversations and eager glances exchanged between guests.With a practiced flair for dramatic effect, the MC continued, his voice rich with gravitas as he regaled the audience with tales of
Terrance's footsteps were cautious as he approached Calvin, his expression a mixture of concern and apprehension. Leaning in close, he spoke in a hushed tone, his words a gentle plea. "Calvin, perhaps you shouldn't do this. I can help you save face and leave the charity event early if you'd like," he offered, his voice laced with genuine concern for Calvin's well-being.Calvin met Terrance's gaze with a grateful nod, acknowledging his friend's genuine concern. "Thank you for your offer, Terrance, but I've made up my mind," he replied softly, his tone resolute.Terrance sighed softly, his shoulders sagging with resignation. "Very well, Calvin. If you're certain," he conceded reluctantly, realizing the futility of dissuading Calvin from his decision.Despite Terrance's concerns, Calvin remained steadfast in his resolve. He saw the auction not just as an opportunity to acquire valuable items, but also as an investment in his medical and cultivation skills. With the knowledge he gained fr
Daniel leaned in towards Calvin, his voice filled with certainty. "You're going to be interested in this one, Calvin," he whispered, his words carrying a sense of anticipation. Calvin's pulse quickened at Daniel's words, his expectations soaring. The mention of the artifact's significance to his homeland only heightened his intrigue. Christina, sensing Calvin's excitement, offered him a supportive nod and whispered "good luck" as the tension in the room mounted. Meanwhile, Brian, ever eager to assert his dominance, was already poised with his tablet, ready to make the highest bid even before the item was revealed. However, the MC intervened, his authoritative voice cutting through the eager murmurs of the crowd. "Please, ladies and gentlemen, hold your bids. The bidding system has not yet been activated. Let's maintain the decorum of the auction," he reminded them firmly, ensuring fair play for all. With the atmosphere thick with anticipation, the models were prompted to unveil the