Chapter 337

Ethan Winston had just arrived at the venue entrance when Gabrielle's shrill voice pierced his ears.

His brow furrowed slightly as he quickened his pace.

"What's the matter now?"

Tears immediately welled up in Gabrielle's eyes at the sight of her brother.

"Sophia Laurent stole my necklace!"

Her knuckles turned white from gripping her dress too tightly.

"The ruby necklace you told me to bid for!"

Ethan remained impassive.

"It's just a necklace. You can buy another one."

"No!"

Gabrielle screamed hysterically.

"I already bragged about it to all my friends!"

She suddenly clutched Ethan's arm.

"If I don't get that necklace, I'd rather die!"

Ethan's expression darkened instantly.

"Don't be ridiculous!"

After a brief silence, he finally relented.

"I'll go take a look."

Gabrielle's tears vanished instantly.

"You're the best brother ever!"

Ethan shook his head helplessly and entered the auction hall with a waiter's guidance.

"Forty million going once..."

The auctioneer's voice dragged on.

Ethan's gaze swept across the room before he raised his paddle under Isabella's expectant stare.

"Forty-one million."

He took his seat gracefully, coincidentally next to Isabella.

"Ethan!"

Isabella leaned in eagerly.

She shot Sophia a challenging look, only to find the other woman completely unperturbed.

"Fifty million."

Sophia's cool voice rang out.

The crowd erupted in murmurs.

Ethan turned sharply.

Sophia's delicate profile remained impassive, her lashes not even fluttering.

"Mrs. Valdemar bids fifty million!" The auctioneer's voice trembled with excitement.

Isabella tugged at Ethan's sleeve anxiously.

"Gabrielle is still waiting outside!"

Ethan stared at Sophia's silhouette, his Adam's apple bobbing.

Finally, he slowly lowered his bidding paddle.

He decided to discuss this with Sophia after the auction.