Chapter 338
Orion staggered to his feet, his bloodshot eyes glaring at Andrew as he roared, “Andrew, you insolent brat! This isn’t over between us!”
Andrew barked, “How dare you use that tone with me! Do you have a death wish?”
Covering his face in luumiliation, Orlon, supported by his followers, scrambled toward the exit of the antiques fair. He did not want to stay even a second longer, fleeing down the bustling street with his pride in shambles.
Christina hesitated and turned to Aspen. “Aspen, no matter what, Mr. Kelce is still one of the most prominent figures from Bridgefields. Are you really not going to check on him after such a humiliating defeat?”
Aspen’s tone was icy. “Check on him? Not a chance. It doesn’t matter. Mr. Kelce’s fury will be something Andrew absolutely can’t handle. Just wait–Mr. Kelce will definitely come back to settle the score, and Andrew’s the one who’s in real trouble now.”
Christina frowned. She could not help but feel that Andrew had gone too far. Winning was one thing, but forcing someone as esteemed as Orion to kneel and bow was excessive.
Actions like that did not resolve anything. They only bred resentment and invited retaliation.
Aspen sneered. “Christina, don’t be fooled by Andrew’s arrogance. Soon enough, he’ll learn what it means to pay the price for his recklessness.”
Christina’s eyes widened in surprise. “Aspen, don’t tell me you’re planning to challenge Andrew in antique appraisal again?”
Aspen smirked confidently. “What’s the fun in that? The real excitement is about to begin anyway. The upcoming portion of this event is where the true masters shine, where only those with vision and courage can play.”
Meanwhile, on Andrew’s side, the Jayrodale experts escorted him to a seat of honor with the utmost respect. Cedric jumped at the chance to claim connections. “Mr. Lloyd and I go way back. If any of you want to work with him, you can count on me to make the introductions.”
Instantly, the other experts began flocking to Cedric.
“Dr. Aicker, you know Mr. Lloyd? That’s incredible! Please, speak highly of me to him!”
“Dr. Aicker, you’re one of us in Jayrodale’s antiques circle. Don’t keep this connection to yourself!”
“Dr. Aicker, we’re practically family. Next time I want to visit Master Lloyd, I’ll be counting on. you to set it up!”
Cedric’s face lit up with pride as he happily accepted their praises. Riding the wave of Andrew’s triumph, Cedric found himself basking in newfound admiration from the antiques community.
E
+25 BONUS
Francesca crossed her arms, pouting. “Grandpa, stop dragging Andrew into your
messes!
Cedric chuckled and said, “How is it a mess? With my relationship with Dr. Lloyd, this is all perfectly natural.”
Francesca stomped her foot in frustration, though her annoyance was tinged with amusement.
Elsie chimed in with a smile. “Ms. Aicker, try to understand. Dr. Aicker has always been passionate about antiques but never really fit into the community. Thanks to Mr. Lloyd, he’s finally earned his place and a bit of respect.”
Francesca paused, her frustration softening. She had to admit it made sense. Orion had deceived her grandfather before, and as a renowned doctor In Jayrodale, the humiliation had stung deeply.
With Andrew backing him up and restoring his dignity, Cedric’s elation was understandable. She turned to Andrew with a warm smile. “Andrew, you’re truly a jack–of–all–trades, aren’t you? On behalf of my grandpa, thank you for stepping in and helping him.”
Francesca felt a genuine sense of respect and admiration toward Andrew. His brilliance in medicine was unmatched, and his skill in martial arts seemed bottomless.
Even in the rarefied world of antiques and collectibles, he had demonstrated expertise far beyond anyone’s expectations. She could not help but wonder in awe how on earth he managed to master it all.
