Family on Their Knees Heart Turned to Ice novel Chapter 107

It was precisely because his attitude was so clear that Bella realized something was wrong.

How could this be?

Was everything she had worked so hard to build about to be destroyed?

How could that be possible?

Absolutely not.

Just as Bella was about to say something, Lillian cut in, “Mr. Blake is being very generous, but there are many witnesses here.

Don’t think I’m just trying to extort five million from you. It’s not a small sum.

I wouldn’t want the theft accusation to fail, only to be falsely accused of extortion and end up in prison again.”

Every word Lillian spoke was loaded with meaning.

She was implying that she wasn't done yet, that she intended to take this to court and see it through.

And the phrase “end up in prison again” sparked a new wave of whispers among the crowd.

Lillian looked around. Among the wealthy socialites present, there had to be someone who knew about jewelry.

She raised her voice. “Is there any lady here who knows about jewelry? You are welcome to come and take a look, to act as a witness. I will be sending this necklace to a professional institution for a certified report to claim the repair costs.”

As soon as she said this, someone from the crowd stepped forward.

“Ms. Mercer, there’s no need to go to such trouble. I know a little, just the basics, but I am very familiar with an expert in this field. I can video call him right now, and he can help with an assessment. We’ll have a clear idea of the cost.”

Lillian gave the woman a slight nod. “Thank you, madam.”

“You’re welcome.” The woman then made a video call, explained the situation, and Lillian brought the necklace over to show the damaged part to the expert on the screen.

He examined it carefully for a long time before shaking his head. “The craftsmanship is flawless. If I’m not mistaken, this is the work of a renowned master from abroad. Unfortunately, he has passed away, and it would be incredibly difficult to find someone who can replicate his work today.

Even a makeshift repair would require a significant amount of time and labor.

All things considered, with the cost of materials, labor, and the master craftsman’s fee, it would be at least six million.”

Sabrina felt a wave of dizziness and clutched her head as if she were about to faint. Martin quickly steadied her.

Bella glanced at Sebastian, trying desperately to maintain her composed persona, but at this point, she was far from calm.

How could she possibly remain calm in this situation?

She was struggling to hold back her retort, especially when she heard other socialites whispering their agreement with the expert.

It seemed these women, who frequently purchased fine jewelry, were all familiar with him.

Lillian raised a glass of wine to the CEO of Nexora Technologies, apologizing for disrupting his event.

The CEO was a shrewd man. He was likely now speculating about Lillian’s background and how she could be making money for Nathan.

After all, Nathan held a high standing in their circle.

Thus, when Lillian offered her apology, the CEO of Nexora Technologies responded with utmost courtesy.

After the crowd had thinned, Nathan approached Lillian and said in a low voice, “Impressive, Li. That was a beautifully fought battle.

So, did you get some of your frustration out?”

Lillian gently swirled the red wine in her glass. The feeling was more of sadness than satisfaction.

“I just feel sorry for my mother. She was such a pure-hearted person, believing she had married the man who loved her most in the world, that this family was her everything.

Fortunately, she lost her mind. Otherwise, she probably wouldn't have been able to go on living.”

To say “fortunately, she lost her mind” was the greatest expression of Lillian’s sorrow.

Nathan comforted her softly, “When you realize you're with the wrong person, you see them for who they are and just leave.”

Before he could finish, Sebastian’s voice came from behind him. “Mr. Cole, who exactly are you referring to?”