Chapter 183: He's Back

The auction house manager was momentarily speechless. Despite his years of experience, this situation was unprecedented. Even without Beth's statement, it was clear she no longer wished to sell the item. But what could they do, even knowing her intentions? The item was already damaged, and her reasoning seemed justifiable.

Maggie fixed her gaze on Beth, unwilling to drop the matter. She hadn't stopped Beth from calling in auction experts. However, she could still insist the auction house demand an explanation from the Brays.

"Ms. Bray," Maggie said sharply, "you seem to have forgotten that, although you consigned this manuscript, the auction house experts determine its condition. If everyone used your tactics, what would become of our reputation?"

The manager, snapping out of his reverie, gave Beth a displeased look. "Ms. Bray, Ms. Adam is right. Publicly destroying a sold item violates our rules."

Beth retorted, "To my knowledge, no such rule exists. Besides, I spilled wine accidentally. Ms. Adam, you can keep the manuscript. I was merely trying to compensate you fairly."

Within minutes, Beth changed her stance again. Despite everyone knowing the truth, she insisted it was an accident, leaving the manager speechless.

"Ms. Bray, I will report this truthfully to management," the manager said seriously.

Beth smiled indifferently. "You should. However, my uncle is on the auction house board, so I'm quite familiar with the rules. I admit to accidentally damaging the item. And, if you're unsatisfied, Ms. Adam, I can offer further compensation…"

This made it clear to Maggie that the auction house wouldn't punish Beth. Maggie had to accept it.

The manager was stunned. He knew everyone there had some influence, but he hadn't expected Beth's uncle to be on the board.

"Maggie, I understand your perspective," Beth said with a cold, satisfied smile, "but the manuscript is destroyed. It's bad luck, and there's nothing you can do about me."

Suddenly, a deep voice cut through the tension. "Remove all the Brays from Vangard Auction House, and blacklist Beth from all Harris Group companies."

Everyone froze. Maggie looked up, astonished to see a man she thought was overseas.

Nathael, impeccably dressed in a light blue shirt and navy blue suit, stood before them.

Maggie was stunned. He's back? Since when?

After her initial shock, she assessed him. Is he recovered? Is his arm alright? Recalling photos Lucas had sent and the sight of him in a pool of blood, her heart ached. His complexion was paler, his longer bangs partially concealing a forehead scar. Maggie knew of a small cut there, which he'd always tried to hide during their video calls. She swallowed, her gaze lingering on his injured arm, which hung at his side, showing only two small cuts. Despite his attempt to appear normal, she knew the injury wouldn't heal so quickly.

"W-What? Do you know what you're saying, Nathael?" Beth stammered, surprised by his sudden appearance and words.

Nathael shifted his gaze from Maggie to Beth, his eyes cold and deep. "What do you think the auction house rules are, Ms. Bray? Do you think you can do whatever you want because you have a relative working here?"

Mia, observing from the sidelines, found the scene intriguing. She realized, for the first time, Nathael wasn't bad. Emma felt anxious, unexpected Nathael would disregard their relationship for Maggie.

"Mr. Harris, it was an accident," Emma began, "Beth didn't damage the manuscript intentionally. Blacklisting her seems excessive—"

Nathael's stern voice cut her off. "Your judgment is flawed, as is hers. I'll arrange a medical expert to examine you both later." His eyes were icy as he stared at Emma. His imposing demeanor, cold handsome features, and piercing gaze left Emma pale, realizing he was warning her. Nathael's ruthlessness was well-known, and his authority was undeniable. The Hollands always held him in high regard; a message to her father would undoubtedly cause problems.

"Nathael, are you serious? Are you really going to defend this woman?" Beth's eyes were red with disbelief. Though teary-eyed, she held back her tears, unwilling to lose face. She'd expected an explanation, a noble justification, but he remained silent, his black eyes fixed on her. He finally spoke a single word: "Yes."

Beth felt a crushing blow to her heart. Emma rushed to support her.

"The Brays and Harrises have always been close. Nathael, aren't you worried about the repercussions? Our elders won't easily accept this. And did they bless your relationship with Maggie? Your future doesn't look promising!" Beth's voice trembled, each word like a dagger.

Maggie smiled. Before Nathael could respond, she stepped forward, taking his arm. "When Nathael and I marry, we'll send you a special invitation, Ms. Bray."

Beth's vision blurred. Bitterness filled her mouth. Nathael lowered his gaze to her, his black eyes holding a hint of tenderness and temptation. "I have Torvalan's original manuscript. Do you want to come over and get it tonight?"