Chapter 5

The Grandelle Auction House glittered with lights. Every piece on display tonight was a rare treasure.

Adrian Valentine entered with Isabella Langley on his arm. All eyes turned toward them instantly.

Isabella looked radiant in her crimson Valentino gown. The diamond necklace around her neck sparkled, accentuating her flawless complexion.

Feeling the envious gazes from every direction, she lifted her chin with triumph.

As the only woman Adrian had ever publicly escorted, this privilege filled her with pride.

A flicker of disdain crossed her eyes at the thought of Evelyn Roland—the wife he never acknowledged. She nodded gracefully to the crowd.

Adrian's arrival caused a stir.

He strode toward the VIP section but paused when he noticed the reserved throne-like seat at the front.

"Whose seat is that?" He glanced at his friend Julian Roscente.

Julian lounged lazily in his chair, his tousled chestnut hair making him look like a prince from a fairy tale.

"An honored guest personally arranged by the old man," he said with a meaningful smile. "Even I don't know who it is."

Adrian's gaze turned cold. The battle for the Violette Diamond tonight wouldn’t be simple.

Isabella studied the empty throne with curiosity.

The auction hall filled quickly, yet the seat remained vacant.

The host took the stage as the first item was unveiled under heavy security.

Just as anticipation peaked, the side door opened silently.

A slender figure entered at the last possible moment.

Evelyn wore an onyx gown, her porcelain skin glowing like pearls under the lights.

She walked through the crowd without glancing sideways, drawing awed stares in her wake.

Adrian's head snapped up, his gaze locking onto the familiar yet distant figure.

Isabella dug her nails into her palm. "Why won’t she just disappear?"

Adrian's lips pressed into a thin line, recalling the Rolls-Royce that had taken her away. Dark emotions churned in his eyes.

Evelyn remained oblivious to the stares and headed straight for the throne seat.

Gasps filled the room.

Isabella's face paled in disbelief.

Adrian's pupils contracted, his sharp gaze slicing across Evelyn’s profile.

Julian arched an amused brow.

This ex-wife was nothing like the rumors suggested.

"Evelyn." Adrian's icy voice cut through the silence. "That seat isn’t for you."