Chapter 324

Christina sighed, glancing at Andrew with a mix of helplessness and frustration. “Aspen, enough already,” she said, tugging lightly on her cousin’s arm. “Let’s just walk around. I want to find a couple of good pieces to bring home.”

Aspen chuckled, clearly enjoying the attention, and allowed Christina to pull her away. “Sure, Christie, let’s look around,” she replied, her voice dripping with smugness. “You know, back in Bridgefields, I was trained by the best since I was a kid. I’ve never been wrong about authenticity in antiques, not even once.”

Christina admired Aspen’s confidence. They were cousins, Aspen only a year older, yet she always seemed so composed and capable. Whether it was her sharp instincts or commanding presence, Aspen possessed a charm Christina found hard to rival, even with her own pride.

Just as the tension subsided, a sharp, mocking voice cut through the hushed crowd. “Two strays from Bridgefields barking away, but now they’re scurrying off with their tails tucked. The more you ignore them, the louder they bark—sometimes you just have to put them in their place.”

The crowd fell silent. They were stunned that someone had called Orion and Aspen “dogs.”

Orion’s expression darkened. He glared at Andrew and growled, “Kid, what did you just say? Say it again if you’ve got the guts!”

Aspen froze, slowly turning to face Andrew, her gaze sharp and icy. “I’ll give you one chance,” she said, her tone clipped and commanding. “Apologize, get on your knees, and admit you were wrong.”

Francesca stammered, nearly burying her face in her hands. “Andrew, did you really just call them… that? You’re just asking for trouble!”

Sensing the gravity of the situation, Elsie whispered urgently, “Mr. Lloyd, let me cover for you… just leave now. Someone like Mr. Kelce won’t let this go. You’ve crossed a line with that comment.”

Cedric, however, seemed oddly energized by the tension: “Forget running! Dr. Lloyd, put them in their place already!” Clearly, Cedric had been eager for Andrew to confront them.

Andrew stood calmly, his expression unbothered despite the mounting tension. His voice was steady as he replied, “I said, two loudmouthed strays from Bridgefields. Did everyone hear me clearly this time?”

The crowd erupted into chaos.

Orion rolled up his sleeves, his face flushed with fury. “You arrogant little punk! Talking trash is easy—let’s see you prove yourself! If you can beat me in appraising antiques, I’ll call you Grandpa right here in front of everyone.”

Aspen’s voice was laced with contempt. She sneered, “Andrew, your petty insults only reveal what a small man you are. Mr. Kelce and I were merely trying to offer you some advice, but instead, you lash out like a child throwing a tantrum.”

She stepped forward, her tone turning icy. “Since you’re so worked up, how about you accept Mr. Kelce’s challenge? Forget your words—show us if you’ve got any actual skill. Let’s see if you can earn our respect.”