Chapter 105

The room fell silent. Diana, known for her composure, shocked everyone with her forceful demands. Bringing a fake antique to Everett's birthday was a breach of etiquette, but hardly seemed to justify such a severe reaction. Amid the stillness, Vivienne chuckled softly, her voice cool as she pierced the silence: "What if it's authentic?"

Diana's eyes met Vivienne's, which glinted with unnerving resolve, sending a chill through her. Vivienne calmly repeated, "What if it's authentic?"

Jolted, Diana cleared her throat and defiantly responded, "Should it be real, I will kneel and apologize."

"Diana!" Melissa interjected.

"Don't worry, Mom. It's valued at 9.54 million. Does she even have that amount?" Diana asked, her posture proud as she confidently faced Vivienne. She was certain the pen holder was a fake.

Vivienne's reminder, "Remember what you said," tightened Diana's chest with fear. The words were spoken; there was no retraction. Moreover, the figure was 9.54 million—a sum Diana doubted Vivienne possessed. She anticipated Vivienne's downfall.

Whispers circulated among the guests. "None of us are experts. We shouldn't rush to conclusions. Does anyone here have the expertise?" The question hung in the silence. They were reluctant to stir up trouble for amusement's sake.

Xavier, his expression complex, spoke respectfully to Everett. "I know Steve Smith, a well-known antique collector. I could call him. His expertise might help. Would that work for you?"

Everett replied, "Xavier, please call him."

Meanwhile, at Timeless Treasures, Steve sat cross-legged, lifting a cup as he regarded Mr. Hopkins. "I wonder what brings you, Mr. Hopkins?"

Derek smiled subtly. "I heard you have connections with the Sinclair family in Lyhaton."

Steve's eyes darkened. "Mr. Hopkins, I don't know much about your marriage arrangement with the Sinclairs, but let me be frank: you cannot touch the Sinclair family." His calm tone hinted at barely contained fury.

"There's a misunderstanding," Derek replied calmly. "I plan to visit the Sinclairs in a few days and wanted to know Mr. Benjamin Sinclair's preferences."

Steve scrutinized Derek. An assistant entered, handing him a phone. "Mr. Gilbert, it's a call from Xavier Anderson."

Steve took the phone and stood. His voice returned to its usual amiable tone. "Xavier, what can I do for you?"

Xavier recounted the situation with the Mitchells. Steve's eyes sharpened. "Are you saying… a 19th-century pen holder?" That pen holder was unique to Timeless Treasures; even counterfeits were rare. He'd been told Vivienne purchased it that morning. How could it be at the Mitchells'?

Xavier explained, "The Mitchells insist it's fake. But seeing that woman almost forced to kneel is heart-wrenching. That's why I ask you to mediate."

Steve pondered. "Alright, give me a moment." He hung up and turned to Derek. "Mr. Hopkins, I apologize. A friend needs my help; I must leave."

"Are you going to the Mitchells'?" Derek stood.

Steve nodded. "Yes."

"I'm heading there too. Let me give you a ride."

"Thank you."