The unbearable night had finally passed, but of course, it was specifically unbearable for Aldrich. Maggie, on the other hand, had enjoyed a sweet and comfortable night.
Early in the morning, Charlie arrived at Barrett Manor, eager to share some news. “There’s an auction today,” he reported. “I received word that a batch of jewelry, including a few Energy beads that closely resemble the one you described, will be up for auction.”
Aldrich looked at Maggie with delight. “That’s great news.”
“Aldrich, thank you for sending Charlie to look into this,” Maggie expressed her gratitude again. She had been worried about the Energy bead, but Aldrich’s efforts reassured her.
Bringing up the previous night, Aldrich gave Maggie a meaningful glance, and she quickly looked away. Charlie observed this exchange and rolled his eyes in silence. “It seems the boss’s date with Miss Nelson went well last night!”
Aldrich cleared his throat. “Let’s get back to business.”
Charlie showed Aldrich a picture of the Energy beads to be auctioned. Aldrich examined it with a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty before passing it to Maggie. She studied the image, furrowing her brow, completely absorbed. “They do look quite similar,” she said cautiously. “However, these Energy beads have a rather ordinary appearance. Just based on looks, it’s hard to determine their true nature.”
Aldrich considered Maggie’s words, weighing his options. “Charlie, I want you to purchase all of the Energy beads,” he decided. “Once we have them, we can touch and ascertain if they possess the energy we’re seeking.”
“All of them?” Charlie’s eyes widened. “I must lack the ability to distinguish.”
“Yes, the more, the better,” Maggie interjected, her eyes filled with determination. “But I want to attend the auction in person.”
Aldrich held Maggie’s hand. “Maggie, you don’t need to tire yourself. Charlie can handle everything.”
Charlie assured her, “Miss Nelson, the demand for these few Energy beads isn’t high. Successfully acquiring them won’t be difficult.”
However, Maggie insisted, “I want to see them with my own eyes.”
Aldrich hesitated for a moment, a conflicted expression in his eyes. He had an important meeting today that he couldn’t miss. “Maggie, I’ve already postponed a crucial meeting yesterday…”
Maggie sensed his reluctance and softly, yet firmly, said, “You don’t need to accompany me. You have your responsibilities, and you can’t be with me all the time. I can handle it alone.”
“But I’m worried…”
In a final plea, she said, “Aldrich, please let me do this. You understand the connection I have with them.”
Reluctantly, Aldrich nodded, understanding the significance of Maggie’s desire to be involved. He turned to Charlie and gave his instructions. “Charlie, you and the security team will accompany Maggie to the auction. Ensure her safety and stay vigilant.”
Charlie’s eyes briefly revealed his impatience. “Yes, boss, I’ll take good care of Miss Nelson.”
Maggie prepared to go out, carefully placing the Energy bead into a small pouch she carried with her. She wanted to have it at hand for comparison to judge the authenticity of other Energy beads. The decision they had made weighed heavily on her, filling her heart with both anticipation and uncertainty.
The group arrived at the grand Emerald Hall, famous for its luxury and grandeur, hosting the Golden Auction. The exterior of this building showcased neoclassical architecture with towering Corinthian columns and intricately carved friezes depicting scenes of wealth and opulence. An imposing archway marked the entrance, and massive doors welcomed visitors into a world of lavish uniqueness.
Inside the auction house, opulence and grandeur dazzled the eye. The marble floor glistened under the soft glow of crystal chandeliers, casting a warm golden hue that accentuated the richness of the surroundings. Exquisite tapestries adorned the walls, depicting legendary moments in history and art, adding a touch of sophistication to an already impressive space. The ceiling featured intricate plasterwork, portraying celestial scenes as if inviting guests to reach for the stars.
The auction house manager, impeccably dressed in a well-tailored suit, warmly greeted Charlie and Maggie. When he saw Charlie accompanying a lady other than Mr. Barrett, his eyes widened in surprise. “Respected colleague of Mr. Barrett,” he said, extending a welcoming hand. “We are honored to have you here today. Please follow me.”
He glanced at Maggie. “It seems this elegant lady is visiting for the first time.”
Maggie offered a faint smile in response but didn’t say anything. Although Charlie wasn’t thrilled about Maggie’s presence, he felt responsible and protective. “Yes, everything is as usual.”
Their demeanor made it clear to the manager that Maggie was an important guest, and her status was likely of high nobility.
The manager led them through bustling corridors adorned with intricate ornamentation and famous artwork. Eventually, they were guided into a secluded suite. When the door opened, it revealed a private sanctuary fit for royalty. Large windows were adorned with luxurious velvet curtains that let in soft daylight while maintaining a unique atmosphere. The room was elegantly furnished with antique pieces, rich rosewood decor, and luxurious interior finishes. A high ceiling held a crystal chandelier that emitted sparkling reflections, illuminating the opulent ambiance.
The suite also featured a private balcony overlooking the main auction hall, providing a bird’s-eye view of the bustling spectacle below. The auction house had spared no effort in creating a comfortable haven for its esteemed guests. The manager gestured to a plush sitting area with velvet cushions and exquisite embroidery. “Please make yourselves comfortable,” he said, with a tone of respect. “Refreshments will be brought to you shortly, and if you have any further needs, please do not hesitate to let me know.”
“Thank you,” Charlie replied politely but distantly.
As they settled into the luxurious chairs, a sense of anticipation filled the room. The manager’s words echoed in Maggie’s mind, emphasizing the importance of Aldrich’s annual spending at the auction house.
She couldn’t help but strike up a conversation with Charlie. “Does Aldrich come here often?”
“Not too frequently.”
“But the organizers seem to hold Aldrich in high regard.”
Charlie chuckled lightly. “Of course, with Mr. Barrett’s reputation and wealth, he’s treated as a VIP wherever he goes. Even this luxurious suite is reserved exclusively for Mr. Barrett.”
“That’s extravagant.”
“That’s nothing. Once Mr. Barrett acquires an item, it more than covers the expenses, filling their pockets.”
“But this time, we’re here for the Energy bead.”
“Yes, if Mr. Barrett were to buy ordinary Energy beads, it would still create quite a stir,” Charlie added with a hint of mockery.
The suite’s door opened again, and a team of waitstaff entered, carrying trays with delicate porcelain teacups and an assortment of delectable pastries. The room was filled with the fresh scent of freshly brewed tea, which blended seamlessly with the air of anticipation. The waitstaff set the trays on a polished mahogany table with elegance and precision.
“Dear guests, these refreshments are specially prepared for you. Please enjoy,” one of the waitstaff politely remarked. The manager, with a warm smile, brought the refreshments, thoughtfully selecting a variety of snacks suitable for a pregnant woman. Maggie appreciated the gesture, her eyes reflecting gratitude. She sat in a luxurious chair, savoring the tranquility of the suite. Her previous nervousness was instantly overwhelmed in this lavish environment. She couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe for the impeccable service provided by the auction house.
Charlie chuckled lightly, breaking the silence. “The boss spends over a billion dollars here every year,” he explained, his voice filled with amusement. “They practically wish he’d make this place his second home, like a VVIP client.”
Maggie was astonished at Aldrich’s extravagance. She couldn’t fathom the immense wealth he possessed. As the reality sank in, she realized the extent to which Aldrich was willing to go to find the Energy bead.
Just as Maggie was lost in her thoughts, the auctioneer’s voice echoed through the entire hall, signaling the start of the auction. The room was filled with anticipation, and the crowd was buzzing with excitement. All eyes were focused on the stage, where the first item up for bidding awaited its fate.
Maggie’s heart was filled with hope and fear. This was the moment they had been waiting for – a chance to find the Energy bead that held the key to their future. The stakes were high, and as the auctioneer’s voice resonated through the room, she couldn’t help but feel a surge of determination. Whatever lay ahead, she was prepared to face it and unlock the secrets waiting for them.