Chapter 777

Lily lowered her gaze to admire the ring on her finger. It was magical how such a small band could so affect her heart. She traced the ring lightly with her finger, then looked up at Alexander, smiling.

"I like it," she said.

After selecting their rings, they left the VIP room. The sales advisor had already taken Alexander's card to process the purchase while Alexander was on a business call.

Lily left the store before the other customers. Outside, she overheard a conversation:

"Mom, I think this looks good. A diamond ring is fine; it doesn't have to be jade."

"You youngsters know nothing about rings! Gold is valuable, jade is priceless. No diamond ring compares to jade!" The old lady's displeasure was evident.

Lily hadn't been actively listening, but their words were startling. The jewelry store sold only diamond rings. Comparing rings and declaring jade superior in such a setting was awkward for the sales advisors and uncomfortable for other customers.

"All right then. You prefer jade, but we don't have any. Why don't you look at something else? Ralph's wedding is next month; you need to be well-dressed," a well-rounded older woman said from the counter, displeasure etched on her face. A middle-aged woman beside her, though showing her age in the corners of her eyes, still possessed considerable beauty.

"Look at this, and this. This ring would suit you beautifully," the sales advisor suggested.

"They're dreadful," the old lady scoffed, clearly dissatisfied. "Do you have any pink diamond or sapphire rings? I want something unique."

"We do, but the prices are…" The sales advisor trailed off. They subtly warned customers about the price of expensive rings for two reasons: handling such valuable pieces was risky, and they wanted to avoid embarrassing customers who couldn't afford them. Such caution could offend some, especially the proud. The current situation was a case in point.

"What do you mean? Do you think I can't afford it?" the old lady demanded, her raised voice drawing attention.

"Exactly! What the hell are you saying? Do you know who my mother is?" the middle-aged woman added angrily. "We're the Russell family. Have you heard of La Beauté Group?"

Lily's eyes widened. The Russell family? La Beauté Group? Could there be another?

"I'm so sorry. I made a mistake. I'll bring the rings immediately," the sales advisor stammered, hurrying to retrieve the expensive rings.

The mother and daughter held their heads high, surveying the store with arrogance. They froze, however, when their gazes met Lily's. Lily wasn't sure if she was mistaken, but she sensed their hostility.

"I'm done. Let's go," Alexander said, ending his call and exiting the store. He noticed Lily staring intently into the distance.

"What's wrong?" he asked, following her gaze. He was stunned by what he saw.

"Give me a moment," Alexander said, approaching the two women. "Hey, Grandma. Hey, Aunt Celine."