Chapter 433 Sapphire
I couldn't help but glance over at Jeffrey. He kept looking our way, too, his eyes filled with a mix of emotions that seemed to get more complicated by the minute.
The chatter among the guests was at its peak when the host, looking stunning in her evening gown, confidently walked onto the stage. Holding a gavel, she announced, "Ladies and gentlemen, the most exciting part of tonight's charity auction is about to begin!"
As soon as she finished, the crowd burst into enthusiastic applause, the energy in the room skyrocketing.
The first item was carefully brought out by the staff—a beautiful painting by a renowned artist. The host gave a detailed background on the painting and its artistic value, and then the bidding began. Wealthy attendees raised their paddles, and the bidding war was on.
After several rounds of intense competition, the painting was finally won by a seasoned collector at a high price. He looked thrilled, and the audience applauded in congratulations.
As the auction continued smoothly, a pair of sapphire earrings was presented to the crowd.
The main stones were two deep blue sapphires, exuding a mysterious and captivating aura. Surrounding the sapphires was a circle of dazzling diamonds, like stars around the moon in the night sky. Under the strong stage lights, the sapphires and diamonds reflected a kaleidoscope of colors, instantly capturing everyone's attention. I was completely drawn to the exquisite earrings, my gaze locked on them, my body leaning forward slightly, eyes filled with undisguised admiration and affection.
Edward had been watching my every move, keenly noticing the subtle changes in my emotions. Seeing my fascination with the earrings, a determined look flashed in his eyes, and he raised his paddle without hesitation.
I was startled and quickly turned to him, whispering, "Edward, those earrings are worth a fortune. Judging by their quality, the price will definitely go way over our budget. Don't be impulsive."
Edward gently shook his head, his eyes fixed on the earrings, and said softly, "Diana, it's rare for you to be so taken with something. Today, no matter what, I want to give them to you."
As he spoke, others continued to bid, and the price kept climbing. Edward didn't hesitate, raising his paddle decisively each time, making my heart grow increasingly tense.
At that moment, I caught a glimpse of Jeffrey standing not far away, wearing a smug smile that made me uncomfortable, his eyes filled with malice. He raised his paddle, too, his actions deliberate, as if to provoke us.
Every time Edward increased the bid, Jeffrey followed almost immediately, with significant increments, clearly bidding maliciously.
The price soared, and the crowd watched in astonishment at the unusually fierce competition. Edward remained undeterred, raising his paddle resolutely each time, tightening the knot in my stomach. Anger surged within me—Jeffrey was clearly trying to ruin our moment.
As the bidding price continued to climb, Edward persisted, but ultimately, Jeffrey won the sapphire earrings at a price far beyond our reach.
When the gavel fell, Edward regretfully lowered his paddle and turned to me, his eyes filled with apology. "Diana, I'm sorry I couldn't get them for you."
I shook my head gently, smiling in understanding. "I know you tried your best. It was way beyond our budget anyway. Your intention means more to me than the earrings."
Jeffrey, full of pride, swaggered over with the sapphire earrings and a large bouquet of glaringly red roses. He approached us with a self-satisfied smile, looking obnoxiously triumphant, as if flaunting his so-called "victory."
"Diana, these earrings are perfect for you, matching your elegance."
Jeffrey thrust the earrings and flowers towards me, his tone sickeningly insincere. "And these roses represent my true feelings for you."
I stepped back in disgust, hiding behind Edward.
Seeing this, Edward immediately stepped forward, his eyes cold as he glared at Jeffrey, demanding, "Jeffrey, what are you trying to pull?"
Jeffrey ignored Edward's question, his eyes fixed on me, continuing his relentless chatter. "Diana, look at these sapphires. Their deep color is just like your eyes, irresistible. I bought them hoping to see them on you."
Edward scoffed, stepping closer, his chest puffed out, matching Jeffrey's intensity. "Jeffrey, cut the crap! Stop bothering Diana!"
Edward's hands clenched into fists, ready for a fight.
Jeffrey's smile remained, though a flicker of annoyance crossed his eyes. He slightly shifted, blocking Edward from me, and provocatively replied, "Edward, don't be so self-righteous. What happens between Diana and me is none of your business. These earrings are for Diana, and there's nothing you can do about it."
I stepped out from behind Edward, facing Jeffrey coldly. "Jeffrey, stop with the fake act. Do you really think a pair of earrings can win me over? Your malicious bidding only exposes your narrow and ugly heart."
Jeffrey's smile froze for a moment, but he quickly regained his shameless demeanor, sneering, "Diana, don't be so heartless. I swear I'm sincere. These expensive earrings show my genuine feelings. Can Edward give you such a valuable gift?"
"Jeffrey, you don't understand what true sincerity is."
I stared into his eyes, unafraid, and retorted, "True sincerity can't be measured by money. You think you can buy everything with material wealth, but with me, that will never work."
Edward held my hand tightly. He stood tall, unwavering, and looked Jeffrey in the eye, declaring, "Jeffrey, you've already lost completely. Stop embarrassing yourself. You'll never win Diana's heart."
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