As they crossed the crowded hall toward the seating area, many eyes turned toward them. The moment people recognized Magnus, quiet whispers began spreading through the crowd.
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen Mr. Graves with a partner at these events before,” someone murmured.
“Who is she? Is she his girlfriend?” another man whispered.
“It could be,” someone replied. “I doubt he would bring a random woman with him to an event as big as this one.”
Just as Magnus and Isabel were approaching their seats, a man stood up and stepped in front of him. He extended his hand.
He extended his hand for a handshake.
“How are you doing, Magnus?”
Magnus shook his hand and gave him a courteous smile.
“I’m doing fine, Boyd. How are you?”
Boyd nodded before glancing at Isabel curiously. “Your wife?”
Isabel’s eyes immediately lit up with excitement, and she smiled brightly at the question.
But Magnus responded without hesitation.
“No. She’s the younger sister of my best friend. I practically see her as my own sister.”
Isabel’s expression instantly fell. Disappointment and anger flashed across her face, but she remained silent.
The people nearby exchanged surprised looks before quietly turning back to their conversations.
Suddenly, another ripple of commotion spread through the hall. Conversations faltered as many guests turned toward the entrance, curious about the source of the sudden attention.
Magnus glanced in the same direction.
That was when he saw them.
Sophia and Elias had just walked through the doors together, their arms linked as they stepped into the hall. Elias wore a perfectly tailored black suit, the sharp cut of the jacketemphasizing his broad shoulders, paired with a crisp white shirt and a dark silk tie.
Beside him, Sophia looked effortlessly elegant in a fitted black evening gown that draped gracefully over her figure, the fabric catching the light with every step.
Together they looked like a striking couple, drawing attention the moment they stepped inside.
People immediately began whispering again.
“They look amazing together.”
“I don’t think I’ve seen a more attractive couple tonight.”
“Isn’t that Sylvia? I saw her at another auction a few days ago.”
“And that’s Mr. Elias Creed! He rarely attends auctions. I’m surprised he came tonight.”
Another woman whispered softly, “Look at them… they look perfect together.”
While the crowd continued gossiping and admiring the pair, Magnus stood frozen.
His expression darkened as he watched them.
“Sylvia came with Elias…?”
