Chapter 148

Evelyn and Gregory rose from their seats, following the hostess toward the private viewing area.

Vivian's face darkened as she watched them ascend to the first floor.

Rumors said the first floor was reserved for Bassburgh's elite. Could it mean...?

Nathan?

Vivian bit her lip until it nearly bled. She would humiliate Evelyn publicly tonight!

The hostess led them to the Swan Room, where four imposing bodyguards stood sentry.

Evelyn's pulse quickened. Was Nathan waiting inside? But the shadow behind the frosted glass didn't match his silhouette.

Her breath caught when the figure turned.

No mask obscured his striking features. His warm smile crinkled the corners of mesmerizing eyes. "My instincts never fail me."

Evelyn's lips curved. Adrian Boucher in the flesh!

She moved to the panoramic window overlooking the auction floor. "I never took you for a jewelry enthusiast."

The reclusive superstar rarely appeared at public events beyond film premieres. His presence at Summerton Auction House sent shockwaves through high society.

Adrian leaned against the railing. "Research for a new role. When I heard Bassburgh's rising star designer would be here, I couldn't resist." His gaze held hers. "Call me Adrian."

Evelyn maintained her professional smile. Up close, his charisma was almost overwhelming - that rare magnetism shared only by Nathan Goldmann in this city.

She'd studied his filmography. Whether portraying heroes or villains, he disappeared into every role with breathtaking authenticity.

Not a single scandal had tarnished his decade-long career - only glowing reviews of his craft.

"Are you bidding tonight?" Adrian's voice pulled her from her thoughts.

"Actually, I'm the seller." Evelyn gestured toward the display cases being wheeled onto the stage.

Adrian's eyebrows lifted. "Then I'll be watching with particular interest."

Evelyn's cheeks warmed. They'd shared one dance at the gala - hardly enough to warrant this attention. His devoted fans would riot if they knew.

A chime signaled the auction's commencement.

The first lot: Taylor Jewelry's pigeon blood ruby fan earrings.

Bids flashed across the digital display as attendees competed via handheld devices.

True pigeon blood rubies were rarer than diamonds, their crimson depths unmatched in the gemstone world.

The numbers climbed rapidly - $70 million... $85 million... finally settling at $97 million.

The auctioneer's gavel fell. "Sold to our distinguished guest in the Marble Room!"