Chapter 82

The crowd's anticipation turned to disappointment as murmurs spread through the gathering.

"This stone is worthless."

"Quality jade should be pure and translucent. This one's full of impurities. No need to keep cutting."

Amateur connoisseurs shook their heads, dismissing it as scrap material.

Bianca Semona finally relaxed, her lips curling in disdain.

She mocked herself for feeling nervous earlier. Having grown up in this world, how could she lose to an amateur?

Vivian Laurent's eyes flickered with concealed frustration.

She had expected premium jade, not this once-in-a-millennium variegated stone.

Further cutting would reveal its true splendor.

"Mr. Roscente, my mistake," Vivian feigned regret. "Shall I repurchase this stone at cost?"

Buying at thirty million to sell for three hundred million—she wouldn't let this profit slip away.

Ethan Roscente cared little for the stone's value, but Vivian's unusual interest raised his suspicion.

Examining the cross-section, he noticed hidden patterns beneath the surface irregularities.

"A gift from you deserves preservation." Ethan instructed his men to secure the stone.

Whispers circulated: "Mr. Roscente spoils his wife excessively, treasuring even worthless rocks."

"More like money can't buy taste."

Ethan leaned close to Vivian's ear. "This stone isn't ordinary, is it?"

Vivian's pupils contracted. She hadn't expected him to discern its true nature.

Only they recognized its worth—not even self-proclaimed prodigy Bianca understood.

Bianca seized the moment. "Mr. Roscente, I'd be happy to help you select better materials."

"Unnecessary." His refusal was ice-cold.

"My consultation would be complimentary," Bianca persisted.

"She knows nothing about jade. I can help you recoup your investment."

Ethan's gaze turned glacial. "Do I strike you as someone who cares about money? As Victoria's friend, you should know your place."

Bianca's nails dug into her palms, jealousy burning in her eyes.