?Chapter 1662:


    Alban knew the Jones brothers well. Their loyalty to one another ran deep, and none would ever entertain improper thoughts about a brother’s partner. Even if a woman tried to y both sides, it would never work within the Jones family — the slightest hint of such behavior would be met with scorn. Yet the way Bain and Jordy looked at this woman carried unmistakable warmth.


    A faint glimmer crossed Alban’s eyes, and the curve of his smile deepened. If she belonged to neither Bain nor Jordy, then the only person who could receive such unguarded affection from both brothers was the daughter the Jones family had lost years ago.


    Alban studied Christina closely, his smile edged with quiet insight. “Interesting.”


    “What exactly are you plotting? I suggest you abandon any twisted ideas,” Jordy said coldly, stepping forward to block Alban’s view of Christina. As long as he stood there, Alban would never reach her. The Jones and Martel families had always been rivals, and Christina’s disappearance long ago might well have been the Martel family’s doing — they simplycked proof. Once he obtained evidence, he would make them pay.


    “So protective… is she yours?” Alban lifted a brow.


    “Keep your mouth shut,” Jordy snapped, his face hardening.


    Alban leaned in slightly, his voice dropping beside Jordy’s ear. “If I’m not mistaken, she’s the sister you lost, isn’t she?”


    “Have you been investigating us?” Jordy’s hands tightened.


    “I read the situation. Judging by your reaction, I’m correct,” Alban replied with calm certainty.


    Realizing he had been led into confirming it, Jordy was about to strike when his wrist was caught gently.


    “Let’s go inside — the auction is about to begin,” Christina said quietly.


    “Alright.” Jordy’s anger settled instantly. He shot Alban a sharp, final look. “I advise you to discard any dangerous ideas. Otherwise, I won’t hesitate to bring the entire Martel family down with you.”


    Alban met his gaze with a crooked smile and said nothing.


    La snorted dismissively at Alban before hurrying after Christina. Her parents had been clear: whatever Christina wanted, she must secure it at all costs. Winning Christina’s favor was the key to everything.


    Your next chapter awaits g?lnσν??ls?c?m


    “Bonnie, is there anything you have your eye on? Let me win it for you,” La offered eagerly.


    “You really don’t need to do that,” Christina replied, her voice warm but hesitant.


    “It’s okay — if you like it, that’s reason enough. Don’t hold back,” La said generously.


    Christina looked genuinely touched. “Thank you. I’ll tell you if something catches my eye.”


    “Perfect. Just choose whatever you like,” La replied. She failed to notice the brief, calcting spark that flickered in Christina’s eyes.


    Christina took her seat with the little girl cradled in her arms, her attention fixed on the stage. Today, she had only two objectives: a rare, century-old medicinal root to strengthen her grandmother’s health, and the Emberbloom. Though highly toxic, the Emberbloom possessed powerful detoxifying properties that made it essential for her remedy. Nothing else mattered to her.


    As the auctionmenced, item after item was presented and bids rose across the hall. Christina remained still and unmoved, waiting patiently for the two items she wanted.


    “Bonnie, what about that sapphire ne? It would look stunning on you — should I ce a bid?” La asked, noticing Christina’sck of interest so far. Today, no matter the cost, she intended to present Christina with a gift and win her favor.


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