Chapter 333

Sebastian Orlando's lips curved slightly, his eyes brimming with affection. Seeing her reluctance to sit beside Adrian Valentine, his mood lifted further. "Alright."

Adrian's expression darkened, his fingers tightening imperceptibly on his knees.

Sebastian switched seats with Evelyn Roland.

Scarlett Orlando, however, beamed as she shifted to ensure Evelyn remained next to her brother.

"Evelyn, I heard they're auctioning the Stellar Dream diamond series tonight. Let my brother get it for you. And the Ocean's Heart too."

Evelyn smiled faintly. "There's no need for such extravagance. I'm just here to enjoy the atmosphere."

"Nonsense!" Scarlett insisted. "I brought you here to have fun. Choose between the Ocean's Heart and the Stellar Dream. If you won't accept a gift from him, then let me give it to you."

Touched by her persistence, Evelyn felt warmth bloom in her chest.

"Scarlett, don't worry about me. I'm content with my life as it is."

"No!" Scarlett lowered her voice. "You deserve to pamper yourself. That bitch Isabella Langley isn't worth your concern. Let her scavenge through the trash you discarded."

Evelyn: "..."

She'd nearly forgotten how sharp Scarlett's tongue could be—just like her own.

A faint smile tugged at her lips. "Fine. If I see something I like, I'll bid."

She'd find a way to repay Scarlett with an even better gift later.

Their conversation, neither too loud nor too soft, carried clearly to Adrian and Isabella's ears.

Adrian's gaze turned icy.

Trash?

Scarlett's mouth needed to be taught a lesson.

Isabella trembled with rage, jealousy gnawing at her over Evelyn's good fortune.

The first round of bidding commenced.

The auction hall was packed.

The first item was the Stellar Dream diamond necklace.

Its central gemstone dazzled, surrounded by shimmering smaller diamonds, but the angular design didn't appeal to Evelyn.

She signaled for Scarlett and Sebastian to refrain from bidding.

It was ultimately claimed by a socialite in the back row for thirty million.

The second item was the Ocean's Heart.

The diamond ring boasted exquisite craftsmanship and a unique design.

Scarlett brightened. "Evelyn, your birthday is coming up. Let me win this Ocean's Heart for you!"

Evelyn blinked in surprise.

November 4th—her birthday.

Adrian's head snapped toward Evelyn.

Only now did he realize how neglectful he'd been as a husband, failing to even remember his wife's birthday.

His father's death anniversary coincided with his own birthday.

He never celebrated it.

The concept of "birthday" felt foreign to him.

Yet as his own approached, she hadn't mentioned it once.

Did she not care, or was she avoiding the subject?

Adrian's eyes darkened like stormy seas.

Isabella glanced sideways, catching the moment his gaze lingered on Evelyn.

He still cared for her.

Murderous intent flickered in Isabella's eyes.

Julian Roscente's plan had failed, but she could still use Christian Lefèvre's death to ruin Evelyn.

Did Adrian want to protect her?

She'd make sure the truth went public, dragging Evelyn into irreversible ruin.

"Ladies and gentlemen, next we have the Ocean's Heart. This piece features fluid lines and a striking diamond pendant that enhances facial contours and elongates the neckline. A masterpiece of refined elegance, starting bid at ten million."

Evelyn did admire the pendant.

As a designer herself, she recognized the hand of a true master.

The diamond's quality was exceptional.

Scarlett gasped. "Evelyn, this is Master Peachbloom's work!"

Evelyn frowned.

So it was her design.

That woman was practically her nemesis.