Chapter 67
Chapter 67:
However, gaining access to such an event wasn’t easy.
An exclusive invitation was required, as the antiques showcased often commanded prices upward of one hundred million dollars.
The Harris family’s car pulled up to the entrance of the exhibition center, where the appraisal event was set to take place.
By the time they arrived, the main hall was already abuzz with activity. The air was filled with chatter as elegantly dressed attendees mingled, their excitement apparent.
Exiting the car, the family followed Callum into the spacious hall.
The room was impeccably arranged, exuding an atmosphere of elegance and importance. At the front, a long table covered in rich black velvet awaited, presumably for the display of treasures.
Rows of chairs stretched out beneath the display area, each labeled with the number corresponding to the attendees’ invitations.
By ten o’clock, the venue was nearly full, and the appraisal event officially began.
The host opened with a few welcoming remarks, his polished words setting the tone for the prestigious gathering.
Next came Arion, the star of the event. As a renowned authority in appraising artifacts from various eras, his reputation was unparalleled.
Once Arion took his seat, the staff began placing antiques on the long velvet-draped table.
The crowd’s attention shifted immediately to the treasures being unveiled—an array of paintings, porcelains, jewelry, and other exquisite items.
Yelena cast a brief glance at the display, her lips curving slightly as she muttered under her breath. At first glance, only a handful of the items appeared authentic and…
valuable. The majority were cleverly disguised counterfeits, mixed in with genuine artifacts.
Find your imagination at; con
Could this event be a cleverly orchestrated ruse to swindle these wealthy attendees?
These weren’t merely nouveau riche individuals flaunting their wealth; many had a practiced air of sophistication, engaging in the antique trade not just for investment but as a marker of cultural refinement.
The so-called connoisseurs thrived on events like these, exploiting the wealthy’s fascination with antiques. They carefully orchestrated these gatherings to lure affluent individuals, making them ripe for exploitation under the guise of sophistication and exclusivity.
Yelena’s gaze remained steady and composed. Not on her watch, at least. As long as she was present, her family wouldn’t fall victim to such schemes.
Beside her, Bella practically radiated excitement. This was her moment—or so she believed.
Confident in her supposed expertise, she was eager to showcase her skills and had already set her sights on one of the treasures displayed.
The event began in earnest as the host presented the first item. After a brief introduction, the bidding opened, and the price quickly climbed from hundreds of thousands to millions. Yelena remained silent, observing with quiet detachment. Her calm demeanor didn’t go unnoticed by Callum.
“Yelena, if something catches your eye, don’t hesitate to raise your paddle. I’ll pay for it,” he said warmly.
Yelena nodded, her reply obedient but nonchalant. “Okay p>
Bella, however, fumed silently beside her.