Chapter 150

The revelation sent shockwaves through the room.

There were two identical "Peacock's Pride" necklaces.

This was unprecedented in Summerton's history.

"Would an international designer stoop to copying?"

"With their reputation? Impossible. It must be that newcomer, Vivian Vanderbilt, who plagiarized."

The murmurs grew louder, buzzing like angry bees.

Lillian de Arma signaled a bodyguard, whispering urgent instructions. He strode off, and moments later, an announcement crackled through the speakers.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we regret to inform you of a technical delay. A potential case of plagiarism has been identified, and an investigation will commence immediately."

Gasps rippled through the crowd.

"Plagiarism? At an auction like this?"

The two necklaces were placed side by side on the stage, an appraiser stepping forward to scrutinize them. If proven, this scandal would be catastrophic.

Adrian Boucher leaned toward Evelyn, studying her serene expression. "Aren’t you worried?"

Evelyn’s lips curved. "Truth is on my side."

The appraiser conferred with the crew, then turned to the audience. "Both pieces are genuine jewels."

A stunned silence followed.

But how?

Then, a voice cut through the tension—clear, confident.

"Sir."

All eyes lifted to the first-floor balcony, where a woman in a white gown and a masquerade mask stood. "Perhaps you could examine the gemstones more closely?"

Vivian’s nails dug into her palms. What was Evelyn playing at?

The appraiser adjusted his loupe, then stiffened. "They’re different. The first uses sapphire, but this one—" His voice trembled. "This is tanzanite!"

In the Peach Room, Madam Nora’s teacup clattered against its saucer. She exchanged a glance with her bodyguard, who stepped forward.

"Madam requests both pieces displayed on the screen."

No one dared refuse.

The twin peacock necklaces magnified on the giant screen, their differences now undeniable.

The second piece shimmered with a regal violet-blue hue, its gradient aquamarine diamonds enhancing the tanzanite’s depth. The craftsmanship was exquisite—each feather alive with light.

The crowd erupted. Bidding numbers skyrocketed.

Vivian’s breath hitched. Sapphire was supposed to work!

Her gaze darted to Lucas Laurent, whose confusion had hardened into suspicion.

She opened her mouth, but he spoke first.

"Frankly, if you claimed Zara copied you, I wouldn’t believe it."

Something in his tone made her blood run cold.