Chapter 131: You're Clueless!

A group of people entered the boutique, a store specializing in private designer brands and exuding the designer's distinct personal flair.

Annie favored elegant yet simple jewelry, drawn to designs with a harmonious sense of balance. Maggie quietly observed the store's layout. Despite a few years passing since her last visit, the aesthetic remained remarkably consistent. While designers often revamp their spaces, minimal changes had occurred in recent years, aligning with her memory.

The store featured a black-and-white color palette, with intricate white lines creating a contemporary feel. Three-dimensional origami sculptures, geometric frames, and triangles adorned the space, giving it the ambience of an art exhibition.

"Dear guests, welcome to Annie's personal jewelry boutique. I'm Emily, and I'll be assisting you today," a charming young sales representative greeted them.

"We admire Annie's designs," Joseph said cordially. "We're here to select some jewelry for loved ones."

"I'm so glad you like her work! Let me show you her designs," Emily replied enthusiastically.

While the store wasn't as expansive as major luxury brands, its jewelry selection was diverse, reflecting a range of styles and types.

"These display cases showcase our classic collection, featuring luxurious gemstones and diamonds. For example, we have the Eternal Love and Timeless collections"

Maggie noticed the predominantly classic and understated styles. She was immediately drawn to an emerald necklace. The necklace featured emerald gemstones, with a large oval cabochon emerald as the centerpiece. Smaller emeralds and diamonds surrounded it, creating a radiant effect. She also saw a simpler sapphire necklace: two parallel platinum chains linked by diamonds forming a cross, with a square centerpiece stone. Annie's designs were known for their delicate detail and subtle contemplation, avoiding excessive lavishness.

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"and we also have more contemporary collections. For instance, this heart-shaped piece with dramatic folds and large yellow diamonds embodies a carefree spirit."

"This one looks good too," Vanessa said, pointing to a favorite.

"You have excellent taste! This abstract design features a human face profile with striking red lips; it's sure to be a head-turner," Emily commented, praising Vanessa's choice. Vanessa, pleased with the compliment, glanced at Maggie.

Maggie stood before another display, featuring pieces that seemed disparate. She recognized them as Annie's less successful or stagnant-period works. "Maggie, what has caught your eye?" Vanessa asked, beckoning Joseph over.

"I'm sorry, but these items are not for sale," Emily said regretfully.

Vanessa was surprised. Items not for sale were usually exceptionally valuable or significant. She immediately started formulating a plan.

"May I see this sapphire necklace?" Vanessa asked, pointing to a necklace in the display case.

"Of course," Emily replied, putting on gloves and retrieving the necklace and a matching bracelet. Vanessa tried it on.

"Joseph, what do you think? I love it."

Joseph frowned, confused by her trying on an unavailable piece.

Vanessa tugged his sleeve. He began to understand.

"It's beautiful—dazzling, like a myriad of stars. It suits you perfectly," Joseph said. While experienced in purchasing jewelry, he lacked design expertise.

"I agree. This 'Starry River' necklace features a sapphire centerpiece surrounded by diamonds of varying sizes. The design is both distinctive and elaborate," Vanessa said, attempting a more professional tone. [The sentence mentioning lack of certification and auditing was awkwardly placed and has been removed to improve flow.] However, flattery seemed the best approach.

"Maggie, what are your thoughts?" Vanessa asked.

Maggie calmly examined the necklace. "I think it's missing something. If it's called 'Starry River,' what's the significance of the blue sapphire? Also, the sapphire's refractive index and transparency aren't sufficient. It doesn't feel like a true 'Starry River' to me."

A woman with loose clothing, messy hair, oversized glasses, and high heels appeared clumsily on the second-floor railing.

"Maggie, even if you have issues with me, would you really joke about a designer's work?" Vanessa said icily. "Maggie, now's not the time for personal grudges. If we can't secure Annie this time, how will you explain it at home?" Joseph said firmly.

Maggie's gaze chilled. "Are you saying one should pretend to understand something they don't? Should one praise something they find disagreeable? Joseph, you're completely clueless!"

Joseph's face darkened. He hadn't expected such disrespect.

Vanessa, amused but maintaining composure, suggested, "Let's move on. It's just a difference of opinion, and Jianing might not be knowledgeable about jewelry. There might be some personal feelings involved."

She pointed to a bracelet. "This is exquisite. The sun motif is mysterious and antique, yet bold and contemporary. The yellow gemstone is also excellent. What do you think, Maggie?"

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