Farewell to Love: The CEO's Desperate Chase novel Chapter 91

"I've always thought that you can glimpse a spark of talent in many children's artwork. It's just that their circumstances keep them from growing as they should."

"Let's hope this charity auction brings them a little warmth."

"The Donovan Group does a decent job with these benefit galas. They set aside huge sums each year for charity, so there's no need to worry about the money not reaching those who need it."

"That's good to hear. So, what lots are you all watching for the second half?"

"Forget the lots—I just want to see who's going to win between 888 and 823!"

"Me too! This is thrilling!"

"How about we start a pool? Place bets on the winner?"

...

The group, who just moments ago were whispering among themselves, suddenly grew animated, each eager to join in the wager.

Emilia stood quietly at the edge, letting their chatter wash over her.

Just then, a shadow fell across her.

She turned slowly and saw Tyler watching her, a frown creasing his brow.

Behind him, the sounds of the betting crowd buzzed endlessly. His eyes were dark, almost midnight black.

Tyler spoke. "Why did you do it?"

They both knew what he meant—the bidding war over the tanzanite.

Emilia didn't answer right away. Instead, she met his gaze and tossed the question back, "And you? Why did you do it? Was it for Vivienne?"

Tyler said nothing, his lips pressed into a thin, stubborn line.

Before she'd asked, he hadn't truly considered his reasons. So much of his life was lived this way—he simply did what he thought he ought to do. That was usually enough for him.

But when this masked woman asked if it was for Vivienne, his heart resisted the answer.

The truth was, he just didn't want that tanzanite to end up with anyone else.

That was all.

Tyler watched her, her face half-hidden behind the crescent-white mask. He couldn't read her, couldn't unravel his own heart.

So he said nothing.

Emotions churned inside him. Emilia finally lifted her head and looked at the silent, frowning man before her.

"Mr. Erickson, don't show too much care for someone who isn't yours. That's a betrayal," she said quietly. "And when you do, you'll only make her sad."

For some reason, an image flashed across Tyler's mind—a pair of sorrowful eyes.

Emilia, crying.

"Mr. Erickson, some people are easy to lose."

"But there are those who, once they decide to leave, never look back."

Her voice was soft as she stood there, red lips moving, beautiful and bright.

She was smiling, but for reasons he couldn't name, it felt as though she were on the verge of tears.