Chapter 7
Ethan stood outside the grand auction house, checking his watch for the third time. He adjusted his cufflinks, his gaze scanning the driveway for any sign of Amara.
“Ethan!”
He turned to see Celeste walking toward him, her figure wrapped in a stunning, ruby-red gown that sparkled under the evening lights. Her smile was coy as she stopped in front of him.
“You’re early,” she said, her voice soft and sweet. “I knew you’d be. Tonight’s a big night for you, after all.”
Ethan offered a small, polite smile. “It’s an important night for both of us. Let’s just hope everything goes as planned.”
Celeste’s laugh was melodic, though there was a glint of mischief in her eyes. She hooked her arm through his without hesitation. “Relax, Ethan. With me by your side, it’ll be a flawless evening.”
Ethan hesitated for a moment but didn’t pull away. Together, they walked into the auction house, their figures exuding confidence and charm.
Amara arrived at that moment, stepping out of her car with the grace of someone who commanded attention even without trying.
Her eyes immediately caught Ethan and Celeste walking arm in arm into the auction house. The sight made her chest tighten, but she refused to let her emotions betray her.
She stood there, unmoving, as another car pulled up beside her.
A sleek black sedan, its polished exterior gleaming under the lights. The back door opened, and a man in a tailored suit stepped out. His presence was striking, his demeanor calm and composed.
He approached Amara and bowed slightly. “It’s here,” he said simply, holding out a sleek black briefcase.
Amara nodded, her face a mask of quiet determination. Without a word, she signaled for him to head inside, and he obeyed. As he disappeared into the building, Amara took a deep breath and followed.
Her entrance was subtle, but heads still turned as she glided through the room in her stunning gown.
She chose a seat at the back, far from where Ethan and Celeste sat at the front. From her vantage point, she could see everything clearly.
Her phone buzzed in her clutch. Pulling it out, she saw Ethan’s name flashing on the screen. She answered, her voice calm.
“Where are you?” Ethan asked, his tone impatient.
“I’m here,” Amara replied smoothly. “Seated at the back. Look around.”
Ethan craned his neck and finally spotted her. Amara offered him a small, knowing smile, but he didn’t move toward her. Instead, he turned back to Celeste, who had leaned closer to whisper something in his ear.
Amara’s fingers tightened around her clutch as she watched the way Celeste effortlessly drew Ethan’s attention, her laughter ringing out as if they were the only two people in the room.
Not for long, Amara thought, her nails digging into the soft leather of her purse.
The auction began, the room buzzing with anticipation. Item after item was bought out, and the bids flew fast and high. Amara stayed quiet, her focus unwavering.
Finally, the auctioneer’s voice boomed through the hall.
“And now, ladies and gentlemen, the piece you’ve all been waiting for—the exquisite antique statue donated by none other than Mr. Ethan Hart!”
A spotlight illuminated the stage as the statue was wheeled out, its intricate design and historical significance drawing murmurs of admiration from the crowd.
Amara’s breath hitched. There it was—the so-called statue her father had gifted her on her wedding day, a piece that held more sentimental value than Ethan could ever understand.
The room suddenly fell silent and Amara adjusted in her seat as she muttered under her breath. “Let the games begin.”
