Chapter 344
Aspen smirked. “Ms. Santana, your devotion to Mr. Lloyd is quite remarkable. From the outset, you’ve shielded this so-called expert at every turn. Aren't you concerned the rest of us collectors might feel a bit neglected?”
Elsie responded calmly, “I’m not sure I understand your meaning, Ms. Stevens. Mr. Lloyd is a distinguished guest of Radiant Group, and assisting him is my duty. Is there a problem?”
Aspen laughed disdainfully. “To receive such exceptional treatment from you, Ms. Santana, he must be quite the expert. So, Mr. Lloyd, are you brave enough to accept my challenge? Don't back down now after all your earlier boasts.”
All eyes turned to Andrew, their curiosity piqued. His earlier confrontation with Orion had been impressive, earning him widespread admiration, but gemstone cutting presented a completely different challenge.
Someone encouraged, “Mr. Lloyd, your antique expertise is remarkable. Surely you can handle gemstone cutting as well.”
“Exactly! Win or lose, you’re already a rising star among Jayrodale’s collectors. Show them what you’ve got!” another added.
However, several older, more cautious experts from the antique association attempted to dissuade him. “Mr. Lloyd, your reputation is hard-earned. Gemstone cutting is unpredictable; gambling on it carries significant risks. We advise caution.”
While some eagerly anticipated a showdown, others genuinely wished to protect Andrew’s burgeoning reputation. Aspen, however, remained impassive, her smile growing colder.
She mused that if Andrew withdrew, he’d be branded a coward. Conversely, if he accepted her challenge, she'd finally have her opportunity to humiliate him and settle old scores. Either way, she envisioned victory.
Andrew chuckled lightly, his tone casual yet firm. “Since Ms. Stevens is so insistent, and everyone seems eager, refusing would indeed make me appear cowardly. I suppose I have no choice but to comply.”
Aspen’s smile faltered momentarily as she considered his reply. Was he truly fearless—or simply foolish?
Christina shook her head in exasperation. “Andrew, can’t you see she’s baiting you? This is precisely what she wants!”
Elsie, looking anxious, pleaded, “Mr. Lloyd, gemstone cutting is far too uncertain. There’s no need to engage with Aspen—she’s clearly prepared, and it wouldn’t be a fair match.”
Andrew smiled reassuringly. “Don’t worry. If anything, I’m afraid it might not be fair for her.”
Elsie stood stunned. Did he really mean that? Could he be so confident?
Francesca, torn between excitement and concern, chimed in, “Andrew, if things go wrong, promise me we’ll stop before it’s too late.”
Andrew’s eyes gleamed coldly. “I’d love to lose, but unfortunately, my skill won't allow it.”
Aspen’s voice cut through the murmurs. “Andrew, you know the rules. Normally, gemstone cutting involves buying a raw stone and gambling on its value. But our match will be different. We’ll determine who extracts the most valuable, highest-quality stone. I’ll show you what true mastery and almost magical precision mean.”
Her words elicited loud cheers; many were already betting on Aspen. Andrew’s presence was viewed by some as merely a foil to highlight her brilliance. All eyes were now on them, the atmosphere thrumming with anticipation.