Chapter 47

Across the table, Christopher was engrossed in his phone, reviewing tonight's auction items. So absorbed was he that he didn't notice Cynthia's twisted, envious expression.

After dinner, he drove her to the auction. Inside the car, she already envisioned him buying something for her. As for Melody's gift, she'd simply take it from… well, that detail was secondary. With that thought, she grinned, clenching her fists, a cold laugh rising in her chest.

At the auction, Christopher asked, "Cynthia, what do you think of this ruby necklace?"

Cynthia smiled expectantly, certain he wouldn't forget her.

"The color is beautiful—vibrant yet elegant," she said shyly, her eyes filled with anticipation.

He stroked his chin. "It's too vibrant. It doesn't suit Melody. A simpler, lighter color would be better."

Her expression crumbled. She bit her lip, her nails digging into her palms. Since he was buying it for Melody, why ask her opinion? Was she merely providing input?

Cynthia was on the verge of exploding.

The auction continued. Christopher kept soliciting her opinion. She offered forced smiles, complimenting pieces before declaring they wouldn't suit Melody. If she couldn't have something, neither would Melody.

What reassured her, however, was his attentiveness to her suggestions. After over an hour, he hadn't purchased anything. And, of course, he hadn't considered buying her anything.

"Now, ladies and gentlemen, our final item—the Crown of Roses!" the auctioneer announced.

The necklace's image commanded everyone's attention. Exquisite and regal, it was designed like a crown and set with natural pink diamonds. Its understated red hues exuded a princess-like air.

Cynthia instantly fell in love with it. But she knew the starting bid would be high, and Christopher hadn't hinted at buying her anything.

"Let the bidding begin! The starting price is eight million!" the auctioneer called out.

Cynthia looked at Christopher, still hoping he might consider her. She refused to believe he wouldn't think of her at all.

He raised his bidding paddle just as she was about to drop a hint. Her eyes lit up. Christopher would never buy such an expensive necklace for Melody.

"I think this one is perfect. Melody will love it." He turned to her, smiling.

She was speechless.

The bidding intensified, and Cynthia gritted her teeth, wishing to skin Melody alive. But she didn't try to stop Christopher. He could bid as much as he liked; in the end, it would be hers.

Eventually, Christopher won the bid with a final price of ninety million dollars. He made the payment and took the necklace.

On the drive home, the air felt sweet to him. He chattered excitedly, oblivious to his own happiness.

"Now, Melody won't throw a tantrum anymore. You don't know how she's been giving me the cold shoulder. She won't answer calls or messages. She's never acted like this before."

"I believe she's still upset about how I pushed her and caused her injury. But now that I'm giving her a gift, she should calm down."

Each word, though laced with complaints and disdain, held an undeniable undercurrent of affection. It was so strong that Cynthia felt she might scream in jealousy. A consuming darkness enveloped her.

Christopher had truly fallen for Melody. And he loved her even more than she had imagined. "Christopher," Cynthia forced a smile, "you and Melody have a wonderful relationship. You're so attentive, spending ninety million to make her happy. I'm truly envious."