Chapter 20
A gentle, contented smile played on Sheila’s lips.
Timothy’s expression was harder to read.
To most people in the room, bidding on this piece was all about that enormous diamond at its center–impressive, to be sure, but not exactly Timothy’s taste. Still, Timothy kept raising his paddle, and in the end, no one tried to outbid him.”
He secured the massive diamond ring with ease.”
Soon after, it was time for the highlight of the auction.
Timothy’s gaze never left the stage.
As the curtain was drawn back, a wave of gasps swept through the room.
Under the spotlights, a platinum–and–diamond medieval–style crown sat gleaming, magnificent and regal.
The centerpiece was set with seven rare, blood–red rubies, each encircled by diamonds, the stones arranged in a heart–shaped pattern.
In total, the crown boasted 999 flawless diamonds.
It was called “Flameheart.“&
Every woman in the room wanted it.
Timothy’s every bid doubled the previous offer, until finally, Flameheart was his.
Timothy
Henry looked up at his father, grinning. “Dad, is this crown for Miss Sheila?“8
Before Timothy could answer, Sheila gently scolded, “Henry, don’t say such things. Something so valuable–your father bought it as a gift for your mother, of course.” Henry frowned. “But Mom’s always at home. She never goes to galas or fancy parties–what would she do with a crown? I think it makes more sense for Miss Sheila to have it.“!
He turned to Timothy. “What do you think, Dad?”
“She wouldn’t have much use for it,” Timothy replied:
The smile on Sheila’s lips deepened, but Timothy hadn’t explicitly said the crown was for her, so she left it at that.
When the auction ended, the organizers hosted a reception.
Knowing Timothy wasn’t fond of crowds, Sheila said, “Timothy, I’m a bit tired. I’d like to head back to the hotel early.” “Of course.”
The auction staff soon delivered their winnings. Timothy settled the bill and left with Sheila and Henry.
As soon as they got in the car, Henry pulled the crown from its velvet case.
“Miss Sheila, let me help you put it on!“2
“Henry, don’t be silly. This isn’t a toy, and it’s hardly something your father could just give away.to me.“}
From the other side of Henry, Timothy’s voice was calm and warm. “I bought it for you.”
Sheila lowered her eyes. She’d known all along, but she had needed to hear him say it.
“Timothy, I know you’re just honoring an old promise, but we…” She faltered for a moment, then changed tack. “You should give the crown to Jessica. I’m allergic to hotel bedding, and since you already invited me to stay at your house, Jessica wasn’t thrilled. If I accept the crown too, she’ll only be more upset.”
But Henry protested, Miss Sheila, you’re Dad’s aunt–Grandma’s only sister! Of course Dad should get you a gift. If Mom’s upset, she’s just being unreasonable.” “Henry, you’re still a child. There are some things you don’t understand, Sheila said gently.
Timothy spoke evenly, “Take it. My gift, my decision.“)
“But-“2
“No more buts,” Timothy interrupted. “I’ve wanted to get you this crown for years. Seven years I waited for it to appear at auction. Sheila felt her heart bloom with happiness.
He still loved her.
“Well then… thank you.”
Half an hour later, headlines blazed across the news:”
I was always meant for you.”
Timothy Lawson, heir to the Lawson Group, had purchased “Flameheart” for a staggering $990 million, and gifted it to the mysterious Mrs. Lawson.
