Chapter 238: A Tiara

After Vivienne ended the call, she considered the perfect birthday gift for her aunt. Her aunt, Chelsea Sinclair, was the eldest Hoffman daughter before marrying Cameron. Her father, William Hoffman, lavished his daughters with the best, while teaching his sons thrift. Consequently, Chelsea enjoyed the finest life had to offer, from her lifestyle to her education. This upbringing didn't spoil her; instead, it shaped her into a generous woman who abhorred injustice.

Since joining the Sinclair family, Chelsea had exercised restraint, prioritizing her family and supporting her husband. She held a particular affection for Vivienne, treating her more like a daughter than a niece, even more warmly than her own son, Owen. When Vivienne considered severing ties with the Sinclairs for Warren, Chelsea was her only supporter, encouraging her to follow her heart. During Vivienne's absence, Chelsea regularly invited her to dinner and offered financial help from her personal savings. Ultimately, worried about the potential repercussions for Chelsea from Benjamin and Cameron, Vivienne reluctantly refused the assistance.

Reflecting on those decisions, Vivienne realized the mistake of abandoning those who genuinely cared for someone undeserving of her devotion. She quietly exhaled, retrieved her phone, and made a call.

A composed voice answered, “Miss Hayes.”

“Jacob, could you check upcoming auctions for exceptional items?” Vivienne asked. Jacob Moore, her longtime asset manager and expert antique scout, was ready with his update.

Jacob promptly replied, “I’ve scanned the upcoming auction lists; nothing particularly outstanding is currently available. Most pieces appear to be replicas with limited investment value.”

Vivienne chuckled softly, realizing a misunderstanding. “I’m looking for a gift, not an addition to my collection.”

Jacob hesitated. “The recent catalog features mostly jewelry. Perhaps you should review it yourself, Miss Hayes.”

Sensing something in his tone, Vivienne's curiosity was piqued. “Is there a particular piece you find noteworthy?”

Jacob replied, a hint of intrigue in his voice, “Actually, one item might interest you, Miss Hayes.”

“And what might that be?”

“It’s a tiara,” Jacob explained smoothly. “It’s appeared at several auctions over the past few months, remaining unsold due to its high opening bid. Instead of decreasing, the price has actually risen from 20 million to 60 million.”

Vivienne's interest was immediately captivated. Any item repeatedly auctioned had to be exceptional. The tiara's failure to sell, coupled with its price increase, intrigued her even more.

She pondered, “When is this tiara next up for auction?”

“In two days,” Jacob answered, “at a Renaissance-themed auction hosted by Forreal, where the tiara will be showcased.”

“Please secure an invitation for me,” Vivienne instructed, then ended the call.