?Chapter 136:

    Katelyn immediately replied, “Alright, I’ll join you.”

    She clutched her phone tightly, her heartbeat gradually settling as she processed the unexpected turn of events. Star, the elusive jewelry piece she had spent years searching for, had appeared out of the blue. If Star were an auction item at tonight’s event, Katelyn knew she would stop at nothing to im it.

    Her phone buzzed once more. Vincent’s message detailed the time and location of the banquet.

    She replied with “OK.” Then, she selected a chic ck dress from her closet, seated herself at her vanity, and applied ayer of makeup.

    By the time she was finished, the clock was creeping toward 7 p.m.

    She slipped her car key into her handbag and stepped outside, spotting a ck Bugatti Veyron parked elegantly across the street.

    Vincent rested casually against the car, one hand tucked into his pocket, a yful glimmer dancing in his eyes.

    Katelyn glided toward him with poise. In his ck suit, Vincent exuded a striking intensity that made his presence even moremanding.

    He appraised her with a slow, appreciative look before saying, “You look stunning in that dress.”

    Katelyn had opted for simplicity, wearing only small diamond studs that shimmered.

    The diamond studs were just enough toplement her outfit without overwhelming it.

    A warm smile spread across her face, and her eyes brightened. She replied, “Thank you for the kind words, Mr. Adams.”

    Vincent swung open the back door with a graceful gesture, allowing Katelyn to slide into the interior. He followed smoothly, settling into the seat beside her.

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    The back of the car was a haven offort, its ample space suggesting both elegance and ease. Katelyn leaned against the far door, the space between her and Vincent generously wide.

    Clutching her handbag, Katelyn worked to hide the flicker of anticipation in her eyes.

    Breaking the silence, she asked with genuine curiosity, “How does the auction work at a charity event like this? Will Star be one of the items up for bid?”

    Vincent cast a rxed, almost amused nce her way.

    “You seem quite captivated by this.”

    Katelyn offered a casual shrug, her voice light.

    “As you mentioned, Star represents the peak of many designers’ aspirations.”

    She downyed her deeper connection, though the Star series was closely tied to her friend’s years of hard work. Years ago, someone had stolen the designs and concept drafts for the series, adding their own touches and turning it into a well-known line of customized jewelry. Yet, the fundamental act of theft and imitation remained unchanged.

    Katelyn was determined to recover her friend’s work and hold the thief ountable.

    “The charity banquet features items up for bid, mostly from anonymous collectors,” Vincent exined. “The highest bidder wins the item, and all the money raised goes to charity, supporting education for underprivileged children.”

    Katelyn nodded thoughtfully, her eyes reflecting her determination.

    With the auction format, she felt confident she could win.

    Vincent rested his hands on his knees, a knowing smile hinting at his lips.

    The charity event had drawn almost every influential person in Granville.

    The scene was even more dazzling than Katelyn had imagined. Guests, clutching their invitation cards, moved past the velvet ropes, each card unlocking ess to the evening’s splendor.

    Everyone was dressed to the nines, theirughter and conversation flowing with effortless charm. The clinking of champagne flutes added a melodic touch to the air.

    Although it was a charity event, the atmosphere radiated unmistakable affluence.

    As Katelyn approached the entrance to the hall, Vincent suddenly reached out and gently touched her arm. Katelyn’s face tightened with a frown. Her hesitation was evident.

    Given the recent rumors about their rtionship, she worried that their appearance together, with linked arms, might only bring more trouble to Vincent.

    “Mr. Adams…”

    Before Katelyn could object, Vincent’s smile widened, his tone light and teasing.

    “Miss Bailey, you’re my date for the evening,” he said, almost as if it were a gentle reminder.

    Reluctantly, Katelyn linked arms with Vincent and strode into the hall. Almost immediately, she felt a piercing, resentful starend on her.

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