?Chapter 1719:


    Alban and Bain had never seen eye to eye, their rtionship perpetually strained. Now that Rose Project fell under Bain’s authority, everyone assumed it would only harden Alban’s reluctance to contribute financially.


    Just when that conclusion seemed settled, Alban’s voice cut through the room. “The Martel family will also contribute one billion.”


    Those who had aligned themselves with the Martel family froze in disbelief, staring at him with confusion written inly on their faces. How could someone who had always stood against Bain suddenly reverse his position? Many immediately suspected he was plotting something underhanded, likely aimed at the Jones family.


    Violette thought so too. A chill of quiet satisfaction curled into a faint smile. “Since Alban is prepared to donate, then on behalf of the Hewitt family, I will give one hundred million.”


    She was merely waiting for Alban to reveal his true intentions and obliterate the Jones family in one decisive blow. Rose Project? Just wait for the ruin they were quietly preparing.


    After the Martel and Hewitt families had dered their stances, the others swiftly followed, each agreeing to contribute their own sums.


    “Then I extend my thanks to everyone for their generosity,” Christina said, her smile warm and effortless. She had no reason to refuse money ced directly into her hands. “I will officiallyunch a public fundraising campaign, and I expect everyone to arrive on time.”


    Her meaning was unmistakable. She intended to unveil the campaign openly before the media—who had truly given would be visible to all, leaving no room for empty promises or hollow gestures. Several opportunists abruptly realized that every possible escape route had been sealed.


    As they left the stage, Ronald hastened after Harold.


    “Mr. Chavez, regarding this painting, could you—”


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    Before Ronald could finish, he was met with a blunt rejection. “No,” Harold replied.


    Flustered but forcing a smile, Ronald pressed on. “I haven’t even finished yet. I’m willing to offer triple the price.”


    “No matter how high your offer goes, it’s not for sale.” Harold hugged the painting close to his chest, casting a guarded nce at Ronald as though afraid it might be seized at any moment.


    His judgment had proven impable—not only had he secured a genuine Wyvena piece, but he had also met the artist herself. Every cent had been worth it. This artwork was destined to be a family treasure, and regardless of the price offered, he would never let it go.


    Harold was so exhrated he could hardly resist telling everyone he encountered that he had won an authentic Wyvena painting at the auction. The surrounding gazes brimmed with envy and resentment, yet he stood tall, pride zing across his face in a triumphant grin. They had mocked him as a fool before. Now they understood how wrong they had been—they were the true fools, gnawed by regret.


    “Mr. Chavez, don’t be so unyielding. We can keep discussing this.” Ronald’s eyes lingered greedily on the painting, longing gleaming unmistakably within them.


    “There’s nothing to discuss. It’s not on the market.” Harold’s stance did not waver.


    While Ronald continued trailing Harold in hopes of striking a deal, Christina had already made her way to Bain.


    “You never disappoint—exceptional, as always,” Bain said, raising his thumb in approval.


    “We’re all exceptional,” Christina replied with a gentle smile.


    Gillian watched her with undisguised admiration. “Miss Jones, you’re truly remarkable.”


    Christina returned a quiet smile just as La’s and Jaxen’s voices reached her.


    “You’re unbelievable! I never would’ve guessed you were Wyvena.”


    “And that’s not even everything—she’s got plenty more identities hidden away.”


    Both La and Jaxen were smiling, appearing sincerely delighted for her. In truth, their happiness did not run that deep. Christina, who was clearly so powerful, had always seemed mild and easygoing in their presence, and they had never imagined she was also a boxing champion. They both envied her abilities, and Jaxen in particr felt uneasy at the thought of her being too formidable. Only if Christina remained easy to control would their ns proceed without friction.


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