Chapter 337
Aspen’s face darkened, and she could not help but step in. “Andrew, let it go. Think about it- Mr. Kelce is someone of his age and stature, and you’re… well, you’re not. Forcing him to kneel is just risking your own life.”
Andrew’s tone was calm as he replied, “I’m not worried. I’m built tough: I’d gladly accept it if he kneels and begs before me.”
Aspen clenched her fists in anger and retorted, “Andrew, do you realize what you’re risking? Mr. Kelce commands the loyalty of thousands in Bridgefields. Not only is he respected in the antique community there, but he also has powerful connections in martial arts circles. Are you ready for the retaliation that’s bound to come your way if you force him to kneel today?”
Andrew let out a cold laugh. “Aspen, I see what you’re trying to do. You’re just trying to get him off the hook. And you’re threatening me with Bridgefields‘ big shots and antique tycoons? Whether I’m afraid or not is one thing, but do you think these Jayrodale folks here will let you run your mouth unchecked?”
Elsie was the first to speak up, her voice icy. “Ms Stevens, as a guest from Bridgefields, you’re welcome at today’s antique appraisal event. But if you’re not going to act like a guest and instead try to take over, then Radiant Group won’t hesitate to put you in your place.”
The Jayrodale antique experts quickly chimed in, their tones sharp and unyielding.
“Ms. Stevens, this is Jayrodale, not Bridgefields. Who do you think you are, threatening Mr. Lloyd?”
“Exactly. Is the Stevens family from Bridgefields really all that? One more disrespectful word to Mr. Lloyd, and we’ll see if you can walk out of here.”
“Remember, you’re in Jayrodale now. If you keep talking nonsense, we’ll have no choice but to escort you out.”
Aspen’s face flushed with frustration and rage. She never expected to find herself being targeted instead. Worse still, it seemed they were serious about throwing her out.
She glared at Andrew and spat, “Fine, Andrew, you’ve got some guts. But this appraisal event isn’t over yet. I’ll show you what real expertise looks like and prove what it means to be a true master of antiques!”
Aspen was not someone who took losses lying down. As the pride of the Stevens family in Bridgefields, she had grown up surrounded by praise and adoration.
Here in Jayrodale, she was determined to make a name for herself, and she would not back down–not even against Andrew.
Meanwhile, in the commotion, Orion tried to sneak away, but someone landed a sharp kick on his backside, sending him tumbling forward into the center of the crowd.
Chapter 137
Andrew smirked and asked, “What’s this? You’ve finally made up your mind to kneel before me?”
Orion’s face burned crimson as he roared, “Who kicked me? Show yourself, or I’ll skin alive!”
No one responded, but the crowd had closed in around him, leaving him no escape.
“Get down on your knees!”
“Bow your head!”
“You made a bet, now keep your word!”
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The shouts and demands echoed around hint, and Orion’s expression turned from fury to fear. He realized with dread that there was no way out The crowd was too large, and no one was on his side.
Swallowing his pride, he finally croaked, “You win… I was wrong!”
His voice was shaky with suppressed rage as he bowed his head to Andrew, his fists clenched tight with humiliation. Finally, he dropped to his knees and admitted his loss.
The crowd erupted in laughter, their jeers filling the air. Orion Kelce, the once untouchable figure from Bridgefields, had been utterly humiliated. His name, once feared and respected, was now a laughingstock.
Andrew raised his hand and said mockingly, “Good, you can get up now. But remember this next time you’re out in the world, don’t act so high and mighty. Otherwise, I might have to teach you another lesson.”
Francesca burst into laughter, unable to hold it in “Andrew, you’re so bad! Oh, this is too good!”
