Next to him, Sloane’s expression was just as serious, the confident smile she had earlier replaced by a look of quiet defeat.
The auctioneer’s voice trembled with excitement as he announced, “One billion! The guest in Box 1 has placed a bid of one billion! Is there anyone brave enough to bid higher?”
The entire hall went quiet, with no one daring to make another move or place a higher bid.
In the end, Henrik emerged victorious, claiming the necklace with an undeniable advantage.
Eric walked out of the venue, completely humiliated. He was so absorbed in his defeat that he even forgot Sloane was still there.
When the necklace arrived, Henrik took it into his hands and, with care, draped it around Khloe’s neck. It glistened brightly, catching the light against her smooth, flawless skin.
Henrik looked at Khloe, his gaze softening. “It’s beautiful.” It was a simple compliment, but it stirred something deep inside Khloe. She looked up at him, momentarily surprised by the tenderness in his eyes and the intense focus that seemed to be directed entirely at her.
Flustered by the intensity of the moment, Khloe quickly looked away, trying to regain her composure. “Let’s go. I’ve got things to take care of tomorrow.”
“Okay.”
Henrik rose from his seat and extended his hand. Khloe placed her hand in his, a familiar motion now.
Over time, they had both become accustomed to the easy comfort of physical closeness.
Khloe could feel the solid strength of his hand, warmth radiating from his palm, comforting her in a way she hadn’t expected.
The sensation stayed with her, even after they were back home and she lay in bed.
She brushed her slightly warm cheek, silently reminding herself that her alliance with Henrik was for one purpose-revenge-and she needed to keep her eyes on the prize.
Three days later, Tess’s call came through.
“Khloe, Elwood is willing to join the crew, but he insists on meeting you first.” Tess’s voice carried a trace of uncertainty. “You could call it an audition. If you don’t meet his standards and still want him to direct, you’ll have to step down.”
Tess wrestled with her emotions as she passed the message on to Khloe.
Khloe, after all, had penned the script, and Henrik had invested a fortune for her. She should be in control of the project.
However, the allure of having a renowned director like Elwood was undeniable. With his name and the novel’s fanbase, Peaks of Eternity could be a guaranteed hit. The prospect of Khloe auditioning felt like a bitter pill to swallow, though.
Khloe, however, was unshaken. “Tess, don’t feel bad for me. Elwood’s request is fair. If he won’t even meet the lead actress before committing to the project, I’d have serious doubts about his abilities.”
“You’re incredible, Khloe. Truly gracious.” Tess released a sigh of relief.
“Let’s schedule the audition for this afternoon. The crew needs to get moving.”
“Got it.”
As Khloe hung up, Henrik walked over and slid onto the couch beside her, slipping an arm around her waist and handing her a glass of milk. “An audition?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.
Khloe took a sip, the warmth of the drink spreading through her. “Yes, we’ve brought in a new director, Elwood Wilson. It’s only natural for him to have his own conditions.”
“Elwood Wilson?” Henrik’s eyes narrowed, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. “The audition’s this afternoon? Let me come with you. How about I be your assistant?”
The audition was scheduled at the Starshine Entertainment building.
Even though Khloe remained composed, Tess couldn’t shake the need to pick her up herself, just to ensure everything went off without a hitch.
After all, Khloe was someone worth looking out for.
When Tess arrived and spotted Khloe’s car in the lot, she hurried to open the door. But to her surprise, a tall figure stepped out first.
Her eyes widened as she gasped, “Henrik!”
Henrik emerged from the car, looking nothing like the man Tess was accustomed to seeing in suits. Today, he wore a more casual, youthful look.
His sharp features were even more striking in this laid-back outfit.
The collar of his white shirt was slightly open, revealing a defined collarbone, and his loose jeans emphasized his long legs. His white sneakers were immaculate.
Tess could hardly believe her eyes. Henrik had never looked this vibrant before. She’d only ever seen him in the formality of suits. He looked stunning!
Khloe certainly had an effect on him-he was dressed younger for her.
Then, Henrik reached back into the car to help Khloe out. Khloe looked equally polished in a white, professional suit. Her long hair cascaded down her back, and the silver-rimmed glasses perched on her nose added an intellectual charm.
Her heels were a bit too high, making it difficult for her to exit the car. Henrik, without hesitation, wrapped an arm around her waist and effortlessly lifted her out with one hand.
One was tall and strong; the other, petite and thin. A dashing heartthrob and an elegant lady-a contrast that was simply adorable.
The sight was too beautiful for Tess to look away from.
She stood there, mesmerized, until Khloe noticed her. “Tess, what’s wrong?”
Henrik glanced over at Tess and smirked, understanding her reaction. “Don’t mind her. She’s just starstruck.” His dismissive tone made Khloe laugh, and she leaned in close to Henrik’s ear, whispering playfully, “Tess is so amusing. I didn’t know she could be starstruck. People say she’s a tough boss.”
“Hey, I’m still here! Khloe, don’t believe anything Henrik says. Let’s go up!”
New Book: Back Home to Marry Off Myself
Loredana’s father left the family for his mistress, leaving them to fend for themselves abroad. When life was at its toughest, her father showed up with “good news” after 8 years of absence: To marry off Loredana to a paralyzed son of the wealthy Mendelsohn family.
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