Chapter 250/251: Body Search

Translator: 549690339

The venue fell silent. All eyes turned curiously to the two women present: a top-tier diva, perched at the pinnacle of stardom, and a rapidly rising young actress who also happened to be the mistress of the Shengyuan Group. Countless industry rumors swirled around them, all centered on one man: Gu Qichen, president of the Shengyuan Group.

Previous rumors linked Gu Qichen romantically with Shen Manbing, the diva; some even claimed she had proposed to him. However, Gu Qichen's marriage to Xia Yangyang was later revealed. The two women were known to be at odds—unlikely allies in any scheme. Yet, with a valuable gem missing, suspicion inevitably fell on them.

Shen Manbing, fiercely proud, would never stoop to petty theft. Similarly, Xia Yangyang, from a prestigious family and mistress of the Shengyuan Group, had no reason to risk her considerable wealth and position for a single gem.

Their shock was palpable when the security manager directly accused them. Xia Yangyang felt a growing sense of foreboding. Shen Manbing, known for her fiery temper, stormed toward the manager, yelling, "Who do you think you are, slandering me? Call your supervisor!"

Aware of Shen Manbing's reputation, the emcee intervened, apologizing, "Miss Shen, we're not accusing you, but the gem is missing, and we must investigate. Could you explain your presence on the second floor? The 'No Entry' sign was clearly visible."

Shen Manbing retorted, "I followed Miss Xia." She neatly shifted suspicion onto Xia Yangyang.

Xia Yangyang's unease intensified. The emcee approached her. "Miss Xia, why were you on the second floor?"

"I was tired and looking for a restroom," Xia Yangyang replied truthfully, adding to her apparent guilt by her unawareness of the 'No Entry' sign.

The emcee was unsure how to proceed; neither woman was easily intimidated. The security manager stated, "To prove your innocence, please cooperate with a search." The euphemism was thinly veiled.

Shen Manbing exploded. "Who gave you that authority? I refuse! Attempt to touch me, and I'll sue your auction house into bankruptcy!"

Her defiance hampered the staff; the emcee frantically tried to persuade her. The crowd buzzed with speculation.

"Is the diva guilty?"

"You don't know Shen Manbing; even if innocent, a public search would be humiliating."

The drama intensified. Finally, Shen Manbing, losing control, emptied her handbag. "Look! Is there a ruby in there?!"