Chapter 60

The weekend had finally arrived.

Dozens of journalists clustered outside Crestview Auction House's gilded gates, barred from entering the exclusive venue.

Wealthy patrons valued their anonymity above all else.

Inside, only serious collectors and investment bankers roamed the halls, their minds focused solely on potential profits. Unlike celebrities craving publicity, these elite attendees had no interest in media attention. Their eyes remained fixed on the priceless treasures displayed under glass.

Except for Victoria Sterling, Margaret Sterling, and Penelope Whitmore.

For years, Penelope would arrive draped in her most extravagant gowns and jewels for this annual charity gala. She'd pose dramatically at the entrance like a fading starlet, basking in camera flashes until auction staff gently ushered her aside. It was as if she feared the world might forget she'd clawed her way into high society as a homewrecker two decades prior. Leonard Blackwood hadn't attended these events recently - likely too embarrassed by his wife's antics.

This year proved different. After Victoria's persistent pleading, Penelope reluctantly agreed to let her daughter take center stage. No matter how much she craved the spotlight, she couldn't refuse Victoria's request.

Now Victoria and Margaret stood at the entrance, playing hostesses.

"We're honored to attend tonight's auction," Margaret announced to reporters, her voice dripping with practiced elegance. "Not only to acquire exceptional pieces, but to support such worthy causes."

"Mrs. Sterling," a reporter called out sharply, "is it true Sterling Corporation faces imminent bankruptcy?"

Another shouted, "Has Mr. Sterling's investigation concluded? Will he serve prison time?"

Then came the question that made Victoria's blood run cold: "Rumor has it your daughter's engagement to Blackwood Industries' CEO is in trouble. Any comment?"

"Trouble?" Victoria's grip tightened on her couture gown's hem as she turned on the reporter. "What exactly are you implying?"

The journalist smirked. "No need for defensiveness, Ms. Sterling. It's a fair question. As your fiancé, Mr. Blackwood hasn't lifted a finger during your family's crisis. His silence speaks volumes."

"Nathan and I are perfectly fine!" Victoria's voice rose an octave, betraying her anxiety over Nathan's recent distance.

Margaret smoothly stepped between them. "My daughter's relationship with Mr. Blackwood remains strong. As for business matters between our companies, those are confidential."

Another reporter called out, "Mr. Blackwood arrived thirty minutes ago. Why didn't you attend together?"

Margaret opened her mouth to protest, but the truth left them both speechless.

Meanwhile, inside the glittering auction hall, Nathan Blackwood stood with his assistant Oliver Sinclair when Julian Montgomery approached.

"Nathan!" Julian grinned, wrapping an arm around Nathan's waist. "Someone's been hitting the gym."

He playfully poked Nathan's toned abdomen.

"Hands off," Nathan warned, his icy glare making Julian withdraw.

"So touchy," Julian teased, instead slinging an arm over Nathan's broad shoulders. "Your fiancée and future mother-in-law are making quite the scene outside. Not going to rescue them?"

"Best not to draw attention."

Julian snorted. "At least you're not completely blinded by love to bail out the Sterlings. Their shoddy business practices are legendary."

Nathan's expression darkened. "Watch your tongue."

"Just looking out for you, brother," Julian said, lowering his voice. "Grandfather nearly barred them from tonight's event. Only allowed it to avoid offending you. You know they don't belong here."

"For now," Nathan said quietly. "But Victoria will be my wife. When that happens, I expect your attitude toward her to change. She's not like her family."

Julian sighed. "Fine. But you won't like what I'm about to say."

"Then don't say it."

Ignoring the warning, Julian continued, "Between us? Your stunning, resilient ex-wife was better suited to you. A man made of ice needs fire to warm him up."