Chapter 9
As Alexander’s gaze fell on her, Natalie’s heart hammered against her ribs. She subtly shifted her body, turning slightly away. Thankfully, several people stood between them, likely obscuring his view.
Taking a calming breath, she began.
“Please, don’t worry. It’s a common misconception that all meteorites are highly radioactive. While they do have some radiation, it’s a minuscule amount-less than what you’d find in a single banana. Are any of you afraid of eating bananas p>
The comparison was amusing and drew a ripple of laughter from the crowd, easing the tension in the air.
“Still, it just looks like a dull gray rock. What’s the value in collecting it?” Camila White chimed in, her tone carrying a subtle hint of challenge.
“Yeah, I’d rather buy a diamond necklace,” someone else added in agreement. “Honestly, I’ve never seen a meteorite at an auction before p>
“And I don’t know any collectors who are into them p>
Camila, seeing that the others shared her sentiment, looked rather pleased with herself.
Natalie glanced at her, keenly aware of Alexander’s probing gaze still fixed on her. She quickly looked away, turning her attention back to the meteorite slice in the display case.
“Collectors typically seek items for their artistic or historical value. A diamond necklace, while beautiful and expensive, isn’t particularly rare. A meteorite, however, is entirely different. It comes from the vastness of outer space. Each one carries a piece of the cosmos, making it utterly unique p>
She paused, letting the idea sink in. “We all know the stars in the sky are celestial bodies. Can any of us pluck one from the heavens p>
“We often hear lovers promise to pluck the stars from the sky for each other. Has anyone ever succeeded?” Natalie smiled. “But if you were to win this meteorite at auction and give it to the one you love, telling them it’s a star you brought down just for them… isn’t that the ultimate romantic gesture p>
As she spoke, genuine interest began to dawn on the faces in the crowd.
“Furthermore, the value of meteorites is appreciating rapidly. High-quality specimens have already fetched incredible prices at major international auctions p>
Natalie went on to cite several examples, giving the collectors a clearer understanding of the
meteorite’s investment potentiaet
Her unique presentation style soon attracted people from other sections of the exhibition. In a matter of minutes, the once ignored rock had become the star of the show.
As a crowd began to form around the display, Natalie stepped back. Her eyes drifted back toward Alexander. He was leaning down slightly, listening intently as Camila whispered something in his ear. As if sensing her gaze, he looked up.
Natalie immediately turned away.
ет
Her presentation was over; there was no need for her to stay. She found a nearby staff member, told them she was feeling unwell, and quickly made her exit through a side
door. Even with her back to him, she could feel his sharp, penetrating
gaze following her every step.
“Alexander, what are you looking at?” Camila asked, noticing his attention was elsewhere.
The presenter’s figure had been very familiar. Even with the mask, he had a nagging feeling he knew her.
Alexander didn’t answer Camila. Instead, he turned to the event organizer next to him. “That presenter was very compelling. What’s her name p>
Back at the villa, Natalie immediately changed out of her suit and threw it in a trash can far from the house. She had no idea if Alexander had recognized her, but she couldn’t risk him finding any proof.
She never expected him to show up at the auction preview. He had returned from his trip and gone straight to Camila without even stopping at home.
An icy chill seeped into her heart. She caught herself feeling hurt again and muttered, “This isn’t the first time he has come home, Besides, you’ve already decided on a divorce. You’re leaving in a month. What’s there to be sad about? Get a grip.” Cóntent
After her pep talk, she gave herself a small thumbs-up.
“Are you possessed?” Read full story at.net
Alexander’s voice suddenly came from behind her. Natalie jumped, nearly collapsing in fright.