Chapter 35: I Lost My Memory

Downstairs, even before Cecilia arrived, she had noticed the most luxurious private room, ideal for viewing the upstairs auction. The room's design incorporated one-way glass; those inside could see out, but not vice versa. She strategically chose a seat visible from the private room, then briefly, and without emotion, glanced upwards.

Inside, Nathaniel's assistant, Mason, was stunned. "Ms. Smith!"

Nathaniel, suppressing his impulse to descend, instructed Mason, "Forfeit the bidding."

"Understood."

The secretary abandoned the bid. Everyone expected a lavish display of wealth; instead, Nathaniel withdrew, leaving them shocked and wondering about the woman who dared compete with him. Crucially, he had relinquished the item to her.

Post-auction, as per the rules, the winner was required to make payment before collecting their item. Backstage, the room was empty save for Nathaniel, sitting alone on a couch, his lean figure in a black suit radiating an air of nobility. His cold, handsome face and dark eyes had been fixed on her since she entered.

"Cecilia!" he said, his thin lips parting slightly, his gaze intense. He awaited her explanation, curious about her four-year absence and the circumstances of her faked death.

Four years had passed, and her transformation was remarkable. The woman who once showed no interest in dressing up now wore meticulous makeup and a vibrant gown, replacing her former preference for dark clothing. Nathaniel saw a side of his wife he'd never known. He watched as she approached, his Adam's apple bobbing subtly.

Stopping half a meter away, Cecilia greeted, "Hello, sir! Excuse me, but are you in charge of this auction? I'm here to make a payment and collect my item."

Nathaniel's face hardened. He rose, his height partially obscuring Cecilia, and looked down at her. "Who do you say I am?" His voice was deep, husky.

"Who are you? Do I know you?" Cecilia asked calmly.

Nathaniel's throat tightened. A chilling aura emanated from him. "You don't know me? Well, let me introduce myself!"

Cecilia's pupils narrowed. Before she could react, he kissed her, a passionate, intense kiss. She struggled, her breathing muffled, but he held her securely, his hand on her back, his actions growing bolder. Initially, she tried to ignore it, but failed. Tears welled in her eyes, and she slapped him.

"Please, respect yourself! Four years ago, I fell seriously ill and lost my memory."

Nathaniel stiffened, staring in disbelief. Cecilia broke free, stepping back cautiously.

Seeing this, Nathaniel's emotions were thrown into turmoil. "You say you've lost your memory? Then how do you recognize this necklace?" He produced a Trapiche emerald necklace and tossed it before her.

Cecilia responded calmly, "This is a keepsake from my father; of course, I remember it."

So, she remembers the necklace, but not me, he thought, exasperated to the point of near laughter.