Chapter 9

Nolan brushed past without a word, his steps halting only when he reached the glinting shards that littered the floor.

Ryland strolled up beside him, smirking as he looked down. "That piece was a real treasure-a rare antique, famous for its craftsmanship. Mr.Gill jumped through hoops to bring it here from overseas. What a shame to see it end up like this."

His voice carried a hint of regret, but the amusement in his eyes betrayed him.

Emma, who had only glimpsed Nolan once before,had secretly built up a fantasy of becoming his bride.

Now, with Nolan standing before her again, she wasted no time feigning innocence. "Blame Eleanor for this mess. Anyway, she's been getting pretty close to the Brooks girl. With their help, replacing one broken vase is nothing-she could probably fill the whole hall with new ones."

Eleanor had always found Emma's shamelessness impressive, but today's performance was a new record.

Without so much as a change in expression, Nolan turned to Eleanor, who had yet to speak a word."Miss Warren, do you really have nothing to say for yourself?"

Situations like this called for evidence, not empty words.

Eleanor held Nolan's gaze, steady and calm. "The exhibition hall is under surveillance. Checking the security footage will clear everything up."

Emma's face drained of color, and she nearly stumbled in panic. Of all things, she had not counted on the security cameras.

Ryland leaned back with a lazy shrug, his tone almost gentle. "I wouldn't be so sure, Miss Warren. This spot's a blind spot. Odds are the cameras didn't catch a thing."

A rush of relief washed over Emma. With no video evidence, she could spin any story she wanted.

Determined to make Eleanor pay, she put on her most curious expression. "Does anyone here know antiques? I'd love to hear what that vase was really worth."

An ensemble of collectors stepped forward,their voices ringing with authority. "Word is, Mr. Gill shelled out $1.5 billion at an auction overseas.Honestly, that vase was supposed to worth even more."

One point five billion. The number hit like a thunderclap. Even for the Brooks family, that kind of cash wasn't just lying around.

With an air of triumph, Emma shot Eleanor a smug look. "Did you catch that? We're talking $1.5 billion.Hope you've got a miracle up your sleeve. If you can't pay, we'll let the police handle you-maybe you'll have better luck behind bars."

While others expected her to crumble, Eleanor stood tall, completely unfazed by the threats.

Nolan watched her, eyes narrowed, silently wondering how she would manage to get out of this.

Jonny, growing more agitated by the second, shifted his weight.

He hated the thought of his ex-wife facing charges,but that sum was outrageous-even for him.

Every eye in the room stayed fixed on Eleanor,waiting for her to break or plead. Instead, she calmly lifted her phone and hit play on a voice recording.

The room filled with Emma's own sneering words."Three years of marriage, and you couldn't even give him a child. Just look at yourself-plain,broke, and worthless. Do you honestly think you can measure up to Lainey?"

Panic flared in Emma's eyes. She lunged for Eleanor's phone, but Nolan stepped in front of her,cutting off her attempt.

With a cold smirk, Nolan turned to Jonny. "Is this how your family raises your sister,Jonny?"

Jonny's jaw tightened as he yanked Emma back and snapped, "Enough, Emma. You've gone too far."

Never in her life had Emma seen Jonny glare at her with so much anger. She shrank behind him,suddenly small and shaken.

Eleanor let the recording play on.

Her own voice rang out. "If you're so worried about children, maybe have Jonny see a doctor. The problem lies with him, not me."

Emma's furious voice followed. "How dare you insult Jonny! I'll teach you a lesson right here!"