Elias only gave a relaxed, almost flashy smile. Then he pulled Sophia a little closer to his side, his hand resting lightly at her waist.
“That’s alright,” he replied calmly. “Sophia is very particular about the things she chooses.”
His gaze flickered toward her for a brief moment before returning to Magnus.
“I’m sure she’ll pick the best piece for herself,” he added smoothly. “And besides…”
His smile deepened slightly.
“I have plenty of time to make sure she gets exactly what she wants.”
Isabel, who was standing beside Magnus, quietly watched the exchange. Her eyes moved back and forth between the two men. A small crease formed between her brows.
‘Why does it feel like they’re not talking about diamonds at all…?’ she wondered silently.
“All right,” Elias finally said. “We’re going to take our seats now.”
He gave Magnus a smug look before guiding Sophia toward the front of the auction hall. They took seats in the first row.
Magnus watched them sit down side by side. His expression darkened before he started walking toward the front as well.
He headed straight toward the seats next to Sophia.
Isabel rushed to his side and grabbed his arm.
“Let’s sit over there, Magnus,” she said, trying to pull him toward the opposite side of the seating area—farther away from Sophia and Elias.
But Magnus ignored her.
Without even looking at her, he walked straight to the chair beside Sophia and sat down.
Isabel stood there for a moment, staring at him in disbelief. Anger and frustration flashed across her face. But she quickly walked after him and sat down beside him, clearly annoyed.
Soon after, the auction began.
One by one, the items were presented, and the bidding started. Guests raised their paddles as the prices climbed higher and higher.
As the bidding progressed, the items became more expensive and rare.
Then a particular diamond appeared on the stage.
Elias studied it carefully.
He leaned slightly toward Sophia and spoke quietly.
“What do you think of this one?” he asked. “Isn’t it one of the rarest?”
Sophia looked at the diamond and nodded thoughtfully.
“It’s a good one,” she said calmly. “It will probably sell for a very high price.”
Elias lifted the bidding paddle slightly.
“Do you want it?” he asked. “I can bid and get it for you.”
He started to lift the paddle, but Sophia quickly placed her hand over his and pushed it back down.
“No,” she said at once. “That’s not necessary. I don’t want it.”
