Chapter 1046

Was it Skylar's ring? Joe didn't remember her ever wearing anything like it. He picked it up and examined it closely. His sharp features softened as recognition dawned—it was Vera's ring. She must have dropped it last night. The ring didn't seem like a casual trinket. The emerald... Joe found himself lost in thought, gazing at the stone.

At the auction, Skylar waited for Minerva, who was running late due to a traffic accident. "I'm so sorry! There was an accident, causing a huge delay. Have you been waiting long?" Minerva apologized, flustered. She'd been anxiously checking the time, worried about being late for their appointment. Missing the auction wouldn't have been a problem—Jipsburg hosted many—but being late to something she'd arranged with Skylar felt rude.

"I just arrived. The auction starts in five minutes. Let's head in," Skylar said with a smile.

Once seated, they chatted casually. Despite their short acquaintance, they quickly found common ground, feeling like friends of years. "What do you think of this emerald set?" Minerva asked, displaying a stunning collection: bracelet, earrings, and necklace.

Skylar examined it carefully. "It's perfect for gifting to an elder. I see no issues."

"Then I'll bid on it," Minerva said confidently, raising her paddle. Items from such auctions came with certificates and clear provenance, ensuring authenticity and eliminating any gifting embarrassment. With Skylar's input, Minerva bid on two items and felt quite satisfied by the time they left.

On the way out, Minerva asked, "Was it just me, or was there no cursed item at this auction?" Skylar seemed to have given Minerva free rein to bid. Minerva had been outbid a few times, but didn't seem to mind.

Skylar laughed. "No cursed items this time. Honestly, they're not usually on the market, but lately, they've appeared more frequently. Someone is deliberately circulating them. Whenever you're considering adding antiques or artifacts to your collection, just ask me to take a look first."

"Thank goodness for you," Minerva sighed with relief. Without Skylar, Minerva might still be burdened by a previously purchased cursed item, or worse, might have unknowingly passed something dangerous to friends or family.

Minerva checked her watch and smiled. "It's still early. Fancy catching a movie? There's a new comedy with great reviews. What do you say?"

Skylar considered it. She had little to do at home, her bags were packed for her countryside trip, and a comedy sounded relaxing. A theater was nearby. They headed there immediately. With half an hour until showtime, Minerva bought large popcorn and two sodas. Each carried a bucket as they entered the theater.

Chapter 1047