Chapter 77

Vivian Laurent's slender fingers traced the rough surface of the raw jade on display. A slight frown creased her brow at the texture.

"Vivian." Lucas Lefèvre approached in a tailored suit. "Found anything interesting?"

She shook her head. "The quality varies too much, and the prices are inflated. We need to be careful."

Bending closer, she examined a grayish-brown stone, fingertips exploring its coarse edges.

Ethan Roscente stood on the second-floor balcony when a familiar silhouette caught his eye.

His pupils contracted sharply when the woman turned.

Vivian?

What was she doing at this exclusive auction?

His gaze narrowed as Lucas casually draped an arm around Vivian's shoulders.

So that's how it was.

A cold smirk twisted his lips as his fingers tapped the railing.

"Brother!" Victoria Roscente approached in stilettos, followed by an elegant young woman.

Ethan frowned. "Why are you here?"

"Meet Bianca Semona," Victoria announced proudly. "One of the country's top jade appraisers."

Bianca extended her hand with a gracious smile. "An honor to meet you, Mr. Roscente."

Ethan barely acknowledged her, his attention fixed below.

Victoria followed his gaze and stiffened. "Is that Vivian?"

Her lips curled in distaste. "Still looks like she shops at thrift stores after all these years."

Vivian remained focused on the jade, strands of hair framing her face.

"How dare she bring that man here?" Victoria's voice rose sharply. "Aren't you going to do something?"

"Enough." Ethan's tone could freeze molten steel. "Watch your mouth."

Victoria gaped. "I'm defending your honor!"

"Unnecessary." He turned away. "Leave her alone."

Stamping her foot in frustration, Victoria glared while Bianca studied the woman examining stones below.

Vivian suddenly looked up, her gaze locking onto the intense stare from the balcony.

Their eyes met for one charged moment before she calmly looked away, as if he were a stranger.