After the Affair Falling into a Billionaire's Arms novel Chapter 27

**Clocks Lie To Hearts by Asa River Flint**

Julian wasted no time with pleasantries. He looked straight at Louisa and said, “My grandma’s birthday is just around the corner, and I’m here to find the perfect gift for her. I thought you might have some insights that could help me out.”

Louisa blinked in surprise, momentarily taken aback. “But I have no idea what your grandma likes. I’m not sure I can be of much help,” she replied, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Julian shrugged, his expression unfazed. “No worries.”

That simple, casual response left Louisa momentarily speechless. He had asked for her assistance, she had hesitated, and yet he brushed off her concerns as if they were inconsequential.

What was the point of bringing her along if he didn’t need her input? Was she just here to fill space?

As she contemplated this, her eyes caught a glimpse of a familiar face weaving through the crowd. It was George, and beside him stood Vivian, her arm linked with his.

Vivian was adorned in a charming pink dress, radiating an aura of affection as she clung to George’s arm. Louisa hadn’t expected to encounter them here, and a chill swept over her, her expression turning icy.

Julian, ever observant, noticed the shift in her demeanor. “Do you want to go say hi?” he inquired, his tone casual.

“No need,” she replied firmly, shaking her head as if to dismiss the very idea.

George hadn’t even spotted her, and truthfully, she had no desire to engage with him at all.

Julian nodded, seemingly accepting her decision. “Alright then, let’s head inside.”

The auction venue was nothing short of magnificent, an expansive hall that exuded an air of sophistication. Grand crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow that illuminated the space in opulence. The rich scent of high-end perfumes mingled with the polished aroma of fine wood, creating an atmosphere that felt both inviting and exclusive.

Business elites donned in sharp suits mingled with understated yet luxurious collectors, their voices a low hum as they chatted in small clusters.

As Julian entered, he immediately became the focal point of attention, with people flocking to greet him in waves.

He acknowledged them with a cool nod, his disinterest evident as he subtly signaled for them to back off.

Louisa watched this unfold, a mix of admiration and bewilderment swirling within her.

“Let’s find our seats,” Julian said, leading her toward the VIP section. He even had Teddy, his assistant, bring over a cushion to ensure her comfort given her injury.

“Thanks,” Louisa said, a genuine smile breaking through her earlier tension.

Before long, other guests began to fill the seats around them. It wasn’t long before George and Vivian arrived, taking their places just a few seats away from Julian and Louisa.

George remained oblivious to Louisa’s presence, his focus solely on the auction.

As the event commenced, the initial items up for bid were minor and lacked significant value, prompting neither Julian nor George to make any moves.

Then, the auctioneer unveiled a breathtaking emerald necklace, its exquisite craftsmanship and radiant design catching the light in a way that made it appear almost regal.

Louisa felt her breath catch in her throat, captivated by the beauty of the piece.

As the auctioneer passionately extolled the virtues of the necklace, she leaned toward Julian and whispered, “This looks amazing. I think your grandma would really love it.”

She hadn’t lost sight of her purpose for being there and was genuinely trying to contribute.

Julian nodded, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. “I believe you’re right.”

The bidding commenced at five million dollars, and soon, paddles began to rise around them like a sea of eager hands.

As the price climbed to thirty million dollars, the bidding began to slow.

Finally, Julian decided to join in, signaling to Teddy, who raised their paddle with confidence. “Forty million dollars!”

The room fell into a hushed silence, tension crackling in the air.

A wave of jealousy washed over him, turning his expression dark.

Louisa felt the weight of his gaze and turned to meet it, her expression cold and devoid of surprise.

George’s annoyance deepened.

Did she even know he was there? And why hadn’t she acknowledged him?

He found himself momentarily forgetting about the necklace, as Teddy ultimately won it for a staggering one hundred million dollars.

As the auction continued, George lost interest, his attention drifting back to Louisa, who appeared utterly unfazed, engrossed in her conversation with Julian.

Frustration simmered within him, and Vivian, noticing his distraction, felt equally irked as she racked her brain for a way to divert his focus.

Just then, a staff member approached, carrying a delicate, transparent box.

“George, look!” Vivian exclaimed, tugging at his sleeve. “This is the book I mentioned! My dad insisted we get it today.”

George nodded, his mind racing.

He was aware of the book’s significance; it was a coveted item that many in the room would likely be vying for.

Though it appeared old and worn, its historical value was widely recognized.

As the auctioneer rang a clear bell, the room quieted once more.

He placed the book at the center of the stage, preparing to introduce it. “Next up is item number 15, a rare copy of Business Philosophy, dating back over four centuries. I’m sure many of you are familiar with this esteemed work. So let’s skip the lengthy introduction and get right to the bidding.”

“The starting bid is five hundred thousand dollars!”