From Terrorist Cell to Diamond Prison

Chapter 19

Fiona flashed her diamond ring in front of Rosalie, who frowned slightly before looking away.

"Well, since you're practically begging me to come," Rosalie said coolly, "I'll make sure to find time to attend your wedding." Her expression was calm, entirely unbothered by Fiona's attempt to provoke her.

"If you really want me there, you'd better send an invitation, don't you think, Miss Fang? And you too, Mr. Williams," she added, glancing toward Luke.

Fiona's composure faltered, and she quickly turned, realizing Luke had been standing nearby, overhearing everything. But Luke's gaze was fixed entirely on Rosalie, oblivious to Fiona's presence.

As Rosalie moved past him, he reached out and gently grasped her arm, a hint of concern in his eyes. They stood in silence, locked in each other's gaze, while Fiona simmered with irritation nearby.

Rosalie glanced pointedly at his hand. "You're hurting me."

He immediately released her, but she was already walking away before he could say a word. She paused briefly at the corner, glancing back, her hair catching in the soft breeze.

"Don't forget the invitation," she said, as casually as if they were talking about a dinner party.

Luke had imagined their reunion countless times, but he hadn't expected her to be so calm, so resolute. It felt as though the month they'd been apart had stretched into a lifetime. It was as if they now belonged to two entirely different worlds.

When Rosalie returned to her seat, the next round of the auction was about to begin.

Mr. Fitzgerald leaned over and whispered, "The ruby necklace is up next."

Rosalie picked up her paddle, her confidence returning. "I'm ready."

Mr. Fitzgerald watched her with quiet pride, sensing a newfound strength in her that he hadn't seen before.

The auctioneer stepped forward and introduced the next item: a rare white jade necklace with a ruby centerpiece.

"This unique piece was once part of a complete set," he announced. "Had it remained intact, its value would be priceless. But after years of wear, only one half remains. Let's see who will take it home tonight."

"The starting bid is $500,000. May I have your bids?"

"$600,000!" someone called out almost immediately.

"$700,000!" another voice chimed in.

Surprised by the rapid pace, Mr. Fitzgerald leaned in and urged, "Go higher."

Rosalie raised her paddle confidently. "$1 million."

The crowd shifted, curious about the unfamiliar face and intrigued by her bold bid. Seeing the amount hit seven figures, most other bidders withdrew, nodding respectfully to Mr. Fitzgerald seated beside her.

"Miss Mitchell has bid $1 million," the auctioneer announced. "Any further bids?"

Though the necklace was valuable, it wasn't worth much more to most of the attendees. Just as it seemed the pendant was going to Rosalie, Fiona raised her paddle with a smug smile and called out, "$2 million!"

The auctioneer quickly acknowledged, "Ms. Fiona Mitchell has bid $2 million."

The moment Fiona placed her bid, Rosalie knew this was no longer about the necklace. This was personal. She lifted her paddle again, her voice steady and unwavering.

"$3 million."