Chapter 5 Giada, the Distinguished Guest

As the city lights began to twinkle, the atmosphere at Prestige Auctions was electric. Anything showcased here was guaranteed to be of the highest caliber. When Samuel and Tilda entered, the women of high society in the room couldn't help but envy Tilda. Tonight, she looked breathtaking in a limited-edition red Klyra Luxe dress, with diamond earrings that sparkled in the light, making her appear even more radiant. The admiring gazes of everyone around her swelled her chest with pride, causing her to lift her chin slightly higher. She was the only woman Samuel ever took out in public. Giada had been his wife once, but Samuel had never truly loved her. He had never once taken her out in public. Tilda's smile widened as she reflected on this, and with that thought, she confidently greeted those around her. Samuel's arrival stirred whispers throughout the auction house. Excited voices buzzed in the air, but Samuel remained impassive, leading Tilda to their seats in the auction hall. As one of the auction house's top clients, Samuel had the best seats in the house. But as he and Tilda settled in, he noticed the person sitting directly next to him had a higher status than he did. He leaned toward his friend beside him. "Who's the guest sitting next to us?" This auction house was owned by his friend, Ronald Carroll. Ronald had a near-mystical presence, with long, wavy hair falling past his ears and an effortless, princely air about him. His carefree, charming demeanor was a stark contrast to Samuel's cool, reserved nature. Ronald grinned knowingly, a playful glimmer in his eyes. "I'd love to know too. This was arranged by my father. He says it's for his most esteemed guest." Samuel furrowed his brows slightly, an icy glint flashing in his gaze. His curiosity piqued—this distinguished guest was surely here for the violet diamond. But who could it be? A powerful business magnate? Tilda, too, was intrigued by the mystery of the guest. As the auction house's pricey seats filled with well-dressed attendees, the first seat—the one meant for the most distinguished guest—remained vacant. The host stepped onto the stage, and bodyguards carefully escorted the first item up for auction. All eyes were now on the violet diamond. As the evening's excitement grew, a slender figure appeared at the side entrance. Giada had arrived, perfectly on time. Though she disliked crowded places, her grandfather had insisted on acquiring the violet diamond. Her entrance instantly captured the attention of the room—her striking face was impossible to overlook. She swiftly scanned the room, her gaze narrowing. The venue was filled with Ulgard's financial elite. It seemed this violet diamond had more secrets than she had expected. Samuel's eyes widened as he took in the sight of Giada. Dressed in a black gown, she exuded sophistication. Her delicate collarbones were exposed, and her fair skin shimmered like snow. Giada rarely wore dresses, but Samuel knew that no matter what she wore, she would always command the room. Tonight, her beauty left everyone breathless. Tilda's eyes darkened at the sight of Giada. How dare she—Giada hadn't given up and had followed her here. "Samuel, looks like Ms. Baron isn't done with you yet. How did she find her way here?" Samuel remained composed, his posture relaxed as he pursed his lips in silence. This was no ordinary venue. He felt a flicker of irritation at the thought of her arriving in such a luxurious car. She'd only been gone for a month, yet she had already moved on? Giada didn't acknowledge Samuel, walking straight to the first seat and settling in. The room went quiet. Tilda's pupils dilated as she processed what was happening—Giada was the most distinguished guest. Samuel's expression shifted to one of surprise, his dark eyes flickering with barely contained emotion. The cold tension in his gaze morphed into sharp, almost dangerous curiosity. So, Giada's the special guest. Interesting. It seems there are many things she kept from me. Ronald, being Samuel's close friend, was familiar with Giada. He knew that they had gotten divorced and that Samuel had moved on. He wasn't surprised. Samuel had always changed partners quickly, with a new woman by his side every few months. Samuel only got sick of Giada after four years. Ronald almost thought he was ready to settle down. What did surprise Ronald, however, was how stunning Giada looked tonight—he had never seen her like this. She was far from the aloof, cold woman that people had whispered about. Samuel's voice was low and cold as he addressed her, his words sharp. "Giada, what makes you think this is a place you belong?"