Chapter 314

Just as Nolan was about to step out the following morning, a single phone call shattered his plans.

Time didn't wait for him.

The auction went on as scheduled.

The moment Eleanor arrived with Dyer's team, reporters rushed at them,thrusting microphones forward.

"Miss Warren, are the rumors true? Did you and Mr. Stewart break up?"

"Is Mr.Stewart coming today? Are you still together?"

Eleanor gave a calm smile, her tone polite yeț distant. "This is a private matter. I have nothing to say."

She added gently, "Please focus on today's auction. These artifacts deserve the spotlight."

Security quickly stepped in, clearing the reporters and restoring order.

The hall grew quiet again.

Yet Eleanor's heart felt hollow.

She was used to standing alone, but somewhere along the way, she had begun hoping Nolan would stand beside her.

Would he come today?

She had no answer.

As she took her seat beside Dyer in the front row, her eyes fell on the empty chair next to her-Nolan's name gleamed in gold on its card.

The auction began, but the seat stayed vacant. He had broken his word.

Maybe because of Elora.

So be it.

Eleanor drew her gaze back to the auctioneer.

Dyer, of course, noticed the shift in her face.

He leaned closer, muttering, "Told you he's not right for you. Don't let it eat at you, kid. I'll find you someone better. Someone who'll make him look like yèsterday/'s news."

Eleanor shot him a half-teasing look. "Got time to play Cupid? Keep your eyes on those artifacts, or you'll be the one crying when they slip away."

When he heard her words, Dyer sat back, focusing on the bidding.

The auction ended on a high note.

Together,they secured several artifacts for the Elepdon Museum.

But when it came time to settle the bill, the staff revealed a surprise-an anonymous donor had already covered the enormous cost.

Seven hundred million.

Who could possibly give that much?

While Eleanor and Dyer pondered, the museum's organizer approached with a wide smile.

"Mr. Curtis, Ms. Warren, we'll be hosting a thank-you banquet in a few days. It would mean so much if you could attend. The community wants to honor you both."

Dyer's grin widened, and he threw Eleanor a knowing glance.

A banquet like that would be full of wealthy young men.

Maybe one of them could help her forget Nolan. He agreed on the spot, and Eleanor, unwilling to appear rude, nodded along.

From the shadows, Brodie watched with keen interest.

He had only come for amusement, but luck had handed him something better.

A banquet meant fine wine.

Once he managed to slip something into her drinks, he could have his way with the elusive Enigma.

And marriage to her would secure his place among Elepdon's elite.

The thought alone sent a thrill through him. He could already picture walking her down the aisle.

Brodie whispered under his breath, "Sorry, Nolan. Don't blame me for stealing your girl. You never knew how to keep her."