Lina didn't leave after the auction. Not right away. She strolled through the ballroom as if she belonged there—heels clicking softly against the marble floor, the echo a quiet announcement of her presence.
People turned to look. Some smiled politely. Some whispered. A few men gave her lingering glances. She returned none of them.
She sipped her champagne, letting the sweet bitterness wash over her tongue. She didn't even like champagne. But it looked elegant in her hand and gave her a reason not to speak to anyone unless she wanted to.
She passed the auction table, where her necklace was being carefully secured for delivery. The staff bowed their heads slightly as she approached, recognizing her now not just as a guest—but as the top bidder, the one who had shaken the entire room.
