Begging for a Second Chance (Sienna Sloan and Jarred Sterling) novel Chapter 460

The sleek black car glided to a halt outside the auction house.

The moment Sienna Sloan pushed the doors open, the deep, rich notes of a cello and the subtle scent of sandalwood washed over her.

The young receptionist recognized her immediately and offered a polite nod. "Ms. Sloan, Mr. Draken is waiting for you in the private lounge on the second floor."

Sienna headed upstairs, her heels sinking into the plush, dark carpet lining the corridor.

The lounge door was left slightly ajar, the gentle sound of poured tea drifting out from within.

She didn't enter right away.

Instead, she lingered by the railing in the hallway, looking down at the open atrium below.

In the center of the first-floor auction room sat a round mahogany table draped in velvet, displaying several exquisite pieces of jewelry.

Helena Sterling was seated near the window. Dressed in a dark purple Embroidered Silk Gown with her hair elegantly pinned up, a string of lustrous pearls rested against her collarbone.

She radiated old-money opulence, her eyes practically gleaming with excitement.

Seated at the surrounding tables were several other wealthy socialites of similar standing.

Sienna had heard of these exclusive, invite-only auctions tailored specifically for high-society women.

The pieces on display were rare treasures rarely seen on the open market.

Given Helena's absolute obsession with fine jewelry, it would have been more surprising if she hadn't shown up.

However, something about Celeste Carlyle, who sat beside her, felt off.

Celeste's makeup was as demure as always, her long hair cascading softly down her back.

Dressed in a light-colored haute couture gown, she exuded a gentle, tranquil aura, a perfectly measured smile resting on her lips.

She sat dutifully by Helena's side, her posture intimate and attentive, agreeing with every word the older woman said.

To any outsider, her eyes reflected nothing but pure, harmless admiration and obedience.

But standing right beside Celeste was an unfamiliar young man.

He possessed a cold, aristocratic air, dressed in a minimalist, impeccably tailored suit.

Every subtle gesture seemed designed to project the aloofness of a fallen European noble. He spoke little and kept his presence understated.

In just the few minutes Sienna watched, the auction staff had approached him several times to negotiate.

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