Chapter 324
+25 BONUS
Christina sighed, glancing at Andrew with a mix of helplessness and frustration.
“Aspen, enough already,” she said, tugging her cousin’s arm lightly. “Let’s just walk around. I want to find a couple of good pieces to bring home.”
Aspen chuckled, clearly enjoying the attention, and let Christina pull her away. “Sure, Christie, let’s look around,” she replied, her voice dripping with smugness. You know, back in Bridgefields, I was trained by the best since I was a kid. I’ve never been wrong about
authenticity in antiques, not even once.”
Christina could not help but admire Aspen’s confidence. They were cousins, and Aspen was just a year older. Yet, she always seemed so composed and capable.
Whether it was her sharp instincts or commanding presence, Aspen had the kind of charm that Christina found hard to rival, even with her own pride.
Just as the tension seemed to subside, a sharp, mocking voice broke through the hushed crowd.
“Two strays from Bridgefields barking away, but now they’re scurrying off with their tails tucked. The more you ignore them, the louder they bark–sometimes you just have to put them in their place.”
The crowd went completely silent. They could not believe that someone had just called Orion and Aspen dogs.
Orion’s expression darkened instantly. He glared at Andrew and growled, “Kid, what did your just say? Say it again if you’ve got the guts!”
Aspen froze mid–step, slowly turning back to face Andrew, her gaze sharp and ice–cold. “I’ll give you one chance,” she said, her tone clipped and commanding. “Apologize, get on your knees, and admit you were wrong.”
Francesca stammered, nearly burying her face in her hands. “Andrew, did you really just call them… that? You’re just asking to make enemies!”
Sensing the gravity of the situation, Elsie whispered urgently, “Mr. Lloyd, let me cover for you
just leave now. Someone like Mr. Kelge won’t let this go. You’ve crossed the line with that comment.”
Cedric, on the other hand, seemed oddly energized by the tension: “Forget running! Dr. Lloyd, put them in their place already!”
Clearly, Cedric had been itching for Andrew to take a stand.
Andrew stood calmly, his expression unbothered despite the mounting tension. His voice was steady as he replied, “I said, two loudmouthed strays from Bridgefields. Did everyone hear me clearly this time?”
The crowd erupted into chaos.
+25 BONUS
Chapter 324
Orion rolled up his sleeves, his face flushed with fury. “You arrogant little punk! Talking trash is easy–let’s see you prove yourself! If you can beat me in appraising antiques, I’ll call you Grandpa right here in front of everyone.”
Aspen’s voice was laced with contempt as she sneered, “Andrew, your petty insults just show what a small man you are. Mr. Kelce and I were merely trying to offer you some advice, but instead, you lash out like a child throwing a tantrum.”
She stepped forward, her tone turning icy. “Since you’re so worked up, how about you accept Mr. Kelce’s challenge? Forget your words–show us if you’ve got any actual skill. Let’s see if you can earn our respect.”
