Chapter 435 The Mysterious Man in Black
Edward carefully cradled the music box, treating it like the most precious treasure in the world. With the well-wishes of the guests around us, we slowly stood up, ready to leave the auction.
As we stepped outside, the cool night breeze gently brushed against us, easing some of the heat from the auction hall.
Edward furrowed his brow slightly, a hint of regret flashing across his face. He said softly, "I was hoping to run into Mr. Grant tonight to discuss a potential project, but he was nowhere to be seen."
I patted his arm gently, trying to comfort him. "It's okay, there will be other opportunities. Besides, today wasn't a total loss. You did make some new business connections."
Edward's lips curled into a smile. "You're right. I had some great conversations and made some valuable contacts. And most importantly, I got this amazing birthday gift for Skylar."
He glanced at the music box in his hands, his eyes filled with tenderness.
Turning to me, Edward said, "Diana, let's go find some beautiful wrapping paper for Skylar's gift. I want to make it a real surprise."
Seeing the anticipation in his eyes warmed my heart. I nodded, "Sure, Skylar is going to be thrilled."
We found a gift shop that was still open, and the array of wrapping paper left us spoiled for choice.
Edward picked up a sheet with pink teddy bears on it, holding it up to the music box. He asked me earnestly, "Diana, don't you think this bear looks just like Skylar? All chubby and cute."
I laughed, "It looks just like her. She'll love it."
After choosing the wrapping paper, the store clerk enthusiastically helped us wrap the gift. Edward's eyes never left the music box, as if he were imagining Skylar's joy when she received it.
We left the gift shop, Edward carefully carrying the beautifully wrapped music box, his face full of anticipation for Skylar's reaction.
The cold moonlight bathed the street in a silvery glow.
Suddenly, a man in black darted out from a dark alley, heading straight for Edward. Before I could even see his face, the man snatched the music box from Edward's hands. Edward's face turned red with anger, veins bulging on his forehead.
"Stop!" Edward shouted, immediately giving chase. I followed, but my fitted evening gown made running difficult.
After a few steps, Edward turned back, shouting urgently, "Diana, stay here! Your dress isn't made for running. Don't push yourself!"
But I couldn't just stand by and watch him chase the thief alone. I hurried after him, though my dress made each step a struggle.
Edward glanced back at me, seeing my faltering steps. "Diana, call the cops! Don't worry about me, just stay safe!"
I quickly pulled out my phone and dialed 911, giving them our location and a brief rundown of the situation. By then, Edward was already far ahead, his figure fading into the night.
The man in black's actions were strange. He didn't just run; he kept looking back at Edward, almost as if he were making sure Edward was still following. Each time he looked back, a chilling smile played on his lips. His route seemed random, yet it led through dark, deserted alleys, as if he were leading Edward to a specific, mysterious place.
Edward, focused on retrieving the music box, didn't notice the man's odd behavior. Sweat poured down his face as he pushed himself to catch up, eyes locked on the precious gift for his daughter.
Ahead, a crosswalk appeared, the light flashing green. Cars began to move, engines roaring. The man in black didn't slow down, charging across the street.
Edward, desperate, followed without hesitation.
"Edward, watch out!" I screamed in terror.
A car screeched to a halt, narrowly missing Edward. The sharp sound of brakes pierced the night, echoing down the street. Edward barely avoided the car, but didn't stop, continuing his pursuit.
As the man in black turned into another alley, Edward seized the moment, lunging forward and grabbing the man's coat. The man twisted free, but the music box fell to the ground in the struggle.
The man hesitated, then bent to pick up the music box. Edward took the chance, tackling him to the ground. They wrestled in the dirt, neither willing to give up. I arrived, breathless, and quickly grabbed the music box, holding it tightly.
The man in black broke free again, running towards a dimly lit area. Edward, ignoring his injuries, chased after him. The surroundings grew more desolate, the streetlights fewer.
Soon, an abandoned freight yard loomed ahead, filled with containers and complex pathways. The air smelled of decay, and eerie sounds echoed from the containers.
The man in black plunged into the yard without hesitation. Edward hesitated, then followed. He scanned the area, trying to spot the man, who seemed to know the terrain well, using the containers as cover to lure Edward deeper into the maze.
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