Calvin had already made his escape.
Just as Lyra expected, Rowan was ushered to a prime seat in the very front row.
Vivienne was seated near the front as well, with Sylvia taking the spot right next to Rowan. Sitting side-by-side, Rowan and Sylvia looked impossibly glamorous, drawing discreet stares and whispers from the entire room.
Maisie glanced over her shoulder and spotted Lyra sitting in the back, casually scrolling through her phone.
Madeline, having just seen photos of Rowan and Sylvia dancing on social media, immediately called Lyra.
"I'm literally at the event right now," Lyra answered dryly.
"Are you dying of jealousy watching them dance?" Madeline probed.
"Not at all. Honestly, I hope they get married."
"Alright, enough small talk. You'll get my answer soon."
Lyra glanced toward the front row, catching Maisie trying to sneak a peek at her.
The bidding commenced.
Lyra had zero interest in the early lots.
While others raised their paddles aggressively, she sat completely still.
Rowan, however, won a diamond necklace and earring set.
He followed it up by purchasing a designer bracelet.
Whenever he raised his paddle, the rest of the room immediately backed down.
The guests whispered among themselves, assuming the jewelry was destined for Sylvia. Even Vivienne thought so, leaning over to whisper to Maisie, "Your cousin isn't as cold as he looks. Clearly, he's putting in the effort for Sylvia."
Maisie forced an awkward laugh and cast another nervous glance toward the back row.
Lyra couldn't care less who he bought jewelry for.
She just kept waiting.
But as the night wore on, a cold dread began to settle in her stomach.
She realized her crown wasn't going to be the grand finale.
It simply wasn't flashy enough to close out an event like this.


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