Chapter 479

“Don’t turn me down yet, Ms. Sullivan. I’ll add another million to my offer, totaling three million. I hope you can restore my porcelain. With your capabilities, I’m confident you can fix it.”

Although three million was a huge sum, Annabelle believed it worthwhile if she achieved her goals. She recalled being on the verge of success when Jeremy, upon learning of her pregnancy in Yley City, forced her return to Jipsburg. He then subjected her to a detailed examination to confirm her due date before ordering an abortion. While not overtly cruel, Annabelle knew Jeremy only wanted Natalie’s child, not hers. Time was running out; she needed to restore the porcelain vase as soon as possible.

She thought Skylar would be swayed by the three million, but Skylar coldly refused. “I won’t change my answer for ten million,” she stated.

Annabelle’s disbelief was palpable. “Give me a reason!” she demanded, bewildered by Skylar’s rejection of such a substantial sum.

Chapter 479 (continued)

Skylar, in Caleb’s opinion, was simply overestimating her worth. The offered price far exceeded the market value. “Why do we need a reason? She just doesn’t want to help. End of story,” Caleb scoffed, rolling his eyes. He couldn’t believe Annabelle’s audacity given the vase’s dubious nature.

Before leaving, however, Skylar changed her mind. “Perhaps I can help if you tell me where you purchased it.” Recent negative occurrences led her to suspect this wasn't a coincidence; these objects seemed to bring misfortune. Many people unknowingly owned dangerous or deadly antiques.

Annabelle’s gaze flickered as she avoided Skylar’s eyes. “Why are you asking? Whether you accept my case has nothing to do with the porcelain’s origin, right?”

Alexander, anticipating Skylar’s strategy, remained silent, subtly signaling Caleb to refrain from comment.

“I also want to buy one. Is that reason enough? If you don’t want to tell me, that’s fine. I’m too busy to restore your porcelain,” Skylar said flatly.

Annabelle frowned. “It’s not that I don’t want to tell you. I bought it on a whim abroad. The seller—I don’t even know his name—claimed it was my destiny to own it. He warned me never to reveal anything about him; otherwise, I'd be in trouble.” Given her recent experiences, she wouldn't risk it.

Skylar considered Annabelle thoughtfully. “Alright. Since you won’t tell me, I won’t force you.” She left immediately.

Annabelle’s reluctance suggested a threat to her silence. Skylar suspected she owned more than one cursed item. Caleb followed Skylar out.

Annabelle turned to Alexander. “Can’t you help me, Mr. Gardner Senior? This vase is extremely important. If Skylar won’t, is there someone else on your team?”