Chapter 261: Who Isn't Intrigued by Mysteries

Jacob initially believed Vivienne was there for the mysterious tiara. Effortlessly, Vivienne tossed a grape into her mouth, her movements exuding a natural grace. Her eyes, bright and full of resolve, shimmered. “I absolutely need to have it!”

“Do you like it?” Derek asked.

Turning toward him, Vivienne asked, “It’s a tiara of mysterious origin featured at a Forreal auction—don’t you wonder about its story? Moreover, if it were not valuable, why would Forreal feature it as the highlight of the event?”

It seemed that the tiara might conceal some hidden mysteries. Uncovering such secrets would require someone driven by a deep-seated curiosity.

“I’ll start the preparations,” Jacob said.

Vivienne gave a nod of acknowledgment.

As Jacob left, Derek closed the catalog he had been flipping through. “Do you enjoy solving mysteries?”

“Who isn’t intrigued by mysteries?” A playful spark danced in Vivienne’s eyes.

Derek’s gaze softened as he looked at her, his eyes showing a warmth and affection previously unseen by others. He said, “I’m open to sharing everything you want to know.”

“I’d rather discover it on my own,” Vivienne responded, her chin resting on her hand as she watched the screen displaying the event. The screen offered a sweeping view of the hall. Distinguished men in suits and women in graceful gowns mingled, the room filled with Lyhaton’s influential figures, giving it the air of a grand social gathering. The hall radiated extravagant luxury. Suddenly, Vivienne’s attention was drawn to a few familiar faces among the attendees.

Natalie and Warren entered, with Diana trailing closely behind. Warren had become a prominent figure in Lyhaton since the Mitchell family’s impressive resurgence, regarded as a burgeoning star with vast potential. His newfound status made him a sought-after partner among the daughters of wealthy families. Yet, his involvement in a scandal with Natalie, the heiress of the Chambers family, during Mitchell Group’s anniversary had tarnished his reputation somewhat.

Onlookers scrutinized Natalie as she stood beside Warren, taking in every detail of her appearance. Today, Natalie chose a champagne-colored strapless mermaid dress that clung to her body, enhancing her elegant silhouette. Her hair flowed down her shoulders in soft waves, subtly revealing her collarbone. Her beauty drew many admiring glances, particularly from the gentlemen present. Quietly, she averted her eyes, masking her true feelings. The spotlight thrilled her, and she had quickly become the event’s focal point.

“Natalie, this venue is breathtaking!” Diana couldn’t help but marvel at the lavish sculptures and the immense crystal chandelier above. Without Natalie, Diana might never have experienced such opulence. She had looked into the Forreal auction, knowing it was an event for the wealthy and influential. Her eyes gleamed with excitement as she looked around the room, hopeful to meet her ideal suitor that evening. The event was decorated in a Renaissance theme, filled with golden adornments and fresh blooms, adding a regal touch that hinted at aristocracy. It felt like stepping into a royal banquet from the previous century.

“Who would have thought an auction could be this elaborate?” Diana said.

Natalie, at her first auction, was slightly better than Diana at hiding her surprise and unfamiliarity with such grandeur.