Chapter 380
“That’s right. Only people like you would foolishly spend two billion on a red gemstone like that.”
“I like to call them rich airheads.”
The crowd pointed and murmured, gossiping among themselves. It seemed to them that Dustin was a prime example of a stubborn man who couldn’t accept defeat. It was clear that he had suffered a loss but was still trying to show off without merit.
“Do you hear that? I’m not the only one who thinks you’re an idiot. Everyone else thinks the same.” Her lips curled up into a smirk.
“Really?” Dustin smiled faintly. “It seems like no one has realized this is not an ordinary red gemstone. It’s an extremely rare Crimson Gem.”
“What’s a Crimson Gem? I’ve never heard of it.” Jayla pursed her lips in disdain.
“That’s fine. Allow me to enlighten you today.” As he said that, he smashed the gemstone with his palm. Everyone present heard two cracking noises as two visible crack lines formed on the surface. In the blink of an eye, the cracks spread across the whole gemstone.
His actions ignited a frenzy among the crowd.
“That’s insane! That punk’s gone insane!”
“Even if he incurred a loss, that was no reason to destroy the gemstone!”
“Ms. Grant was right. He’s an idiot!”
The crowd was filled with astonishment and regret as they voiced their disapproval and admonishment. They recognized that it was still a remarkable treasure, and it was such a waste for him to destroy it like that.
Jayla was initially taken aback, but soon, she couldn’t stop howling in laughter. “Hey! Did you get water into your brain? You spent two billion to buy that, yet you smashed it? I’ve never seen anyone as stupid as you!” She continued laughing, but it wasn’t long before she went silent.
That was because after the gemstone shattered, a crimson flower emerged from the shattered pieces. The flower, translucent and blood–colored, glistened with a mesmerizing radiance. It embodied the essence of nature in itself, looking perfectly flawless.
Upon closer inspection, it appeared as if a slow, graceful flow of red liquid was flowing within it. Illuminated under the lights, the crimson flower shone beautifully, resembling an artful. masterpiece that captivated those present, leaving them awestruck.
“Could… C–could it be? Is that the legendary Flower of Crimson Gem?” After a momentary daze, the man in the long–sleeved shirt suddenly exclaimed out loud.
The crowd erupted into a frenzy at his words.
“Flower of Crimson Gem? That’s a Flower of Crimson Gem? I never thought I would be able to see such a treasure in my lifetime!”
“It’s rumored that the Flower of Crimson Gem can not only prolong life but revive the dead. When taken by ordinary people, they would be reborn, and even achieve greater things!”
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“It’s a priceless treasure! It’s definitely a priceless treasure!”
“Damn it, that punk spent a mere two billion for a Flower of Crimson Gem. Lucky bastard!”
The crowd looked at the Flower of Crimson Gem with tremendous greed and envy, like a beggar who chanced upon gold. A few daring individuals had even started concocting a plan secretly.
“Flower of Crimson Gem? How is that possible?” Jayla was dumbfounded as she looked on in disbelief.
A Flower of Crimson Gem was an extremely rare treasure that could only be chanced upon once in a blue moon. It was much more valuable than a thousand–year green lotus. Who would have thought she could encounter it in a place like this?
At the heart of the matter, the Grant family was the one who discovered that red gemstone, and she had delivered it personally to the auction house. In other words, she had given away that priceless treasure!
The realization left her feeling light–headed.
Chapter 381
“Why? Just why!” Jayla burned with jealousy. If she had known the gemstone was hiding a priceless treasure, she would never have sold it. In the end, it ended up in the hands of a country bumpkin! What a loss!
“What a turn of events. This is such a blessing!” Dustin held the Flower of Crimson Gem up in one hand, the corner of his lips curling up into a wide smile. From the moment he laid eyes on the gemstone, he knew it was hiding something exceptional. Just as he expected, he had discovered a
true treasure.
The Flower of Crimson Gem was not an ordinary flower. It was an extremely rare treasure.
Typically, it could only be found in red gemstones. And it just so happened that the red gemstone
on auction today was a Crimson Gem.
Previously, he felt regretful thinking about the 900–year green lotus. However, the appearance of the Flower of Crimson Gem came as a blessing and a happy surprise. At least he didn’t travel all
the way here for nothing.
“Ms. Grant, don’t you think a price of two billion dollars is extremely worth it for this precious
item?” He turned to look at her and flashed a smile. “Should I say you’re the true idiot here?”
“You…” Jayla was rendered speechless. The vicious words she had thrown out earlier at them
were now directed at herself. She had spent three billion to purchase a subpar item, while Dustin
had paid a mere two billion in exchange for an invaluable treasure. The stark difference was
maddening!
“Ms. Grant, thank you for the treasure. We shall meet again soon.” Dustin smiled and prepared to
leave.
“Hold it!” Jayla suddenly called out to him. “Did I say you could leave?”
“Hmm? Are you going to treat us to a meal?” Dustin smiled teasingly.
“Stop talking back. I’m taking that Flower of Crimson Gem! Name your price!” She demanded angrily. Naturally, she wasn’t going to give up such a rare gem.
Dustin refused her outright. “I’m sorry, I’m not selling it.
“Not selling?” Jayla scoffed coldly. “Let me tell you honestly. Since I want it, you are selling that
treasure to me no matter what.”
Dustin raised his eyebrows. “Oh? Since when has that been the law?”
“Shut up! My words are the law!” She glared at him. “Don’t paint me as a bully. Since you spent two billion to purchase it, I’ll buy it back from you for two billion! You won’t incur any losses!”
“And if I don’t?” Dustin smiled. Did she take him for an idiot? He was to resell a two–billion–dollar
purchase for two billion dollars?
“Then you’ll bear the consequences!” Jayla threatened.
The Flower of Crimson Gem would be able to elevate her brother’s martial arts prowess to another level. That was the reason she needed to obtain it, even if that meant putting down her dignity.
“It’s a priceless treasure! It’s definitely a priceless treasure!”
“Damn it, that punk spent a mere two billion for a Flower of Crimson Gem. Lucky bastard!”
The crowd looked at the Flower of Crimson Gem with tremendous greed and envy, like a beggar who chanced upon gold. A few daring individuals had even started concocting a plan secretly.
“Flower of Crimson Gem? How is that possible?” Jayla was dumbfounded as she looked on in disbelief.
A Flower of Crimson Gem was an extremely rare treasure that could only be chanced upon once in a blue moon. It was much more valuable than a thousand–year green lotus. Who would have thought she could encounter it in a place like this?
At the heart of the matter, the Grant family was the one who discovered that red gemstone, and she had delivered it personally to the auction house. In other words, she had given away that priceless treasure!
The realization left her feeling light–headed.
“Why? Just why!” Jayla burned with jealousy. If she had known the gemstone was hiding a priceless treasure, she would never have sold it. In the end, it ended up in the hands of a country bumpkin! What a loss!
“What a turn of events. This is such a blessing!” Dustin held the Flower of Crimson Gem up in one hand, the corner of his lips curling up into a wide smile. From the moment he laid eyes on the gemstone, he knew it was hiding something exceptional. Just as he expected, he had discovered a true treasure.
The Flower of Crimson Gem was not an ordinary flower. It was an extremely rare treasure. Typically, it could only be found in red gemstones. And it just so happened that the red gemstone on auction today was a Crimson Gem.
Previously, he felt regretful thinking about the 900–year green lotus. However, the appearance of the Flower of Crimson Gem came as a blessing and a happy surprise. At least he didn’t travel all the way here for nothing.
“Ms. Grant, don’t you think a price of two billion dollars is extremely worth it for this precious item?” He turned to look at her and flashed a smile. “Should I say you’re the true idiot here?”
“You…” Jayla was rendered speechless. The vicious words she had thrown out earlier at them were now directed at herself. She had spent three billion to purchase a subpar item, while Dustin had paid a mere two billion in exchange for an invaluable treasure. The stark difference was maddening!
“Ms. Grant, thank you for the treasure. We shall meet again soon.” Dustin smiled and prepared to leave.
“Hold it!” Jayla suddenly called out to him. “Did I say you could leave?”
“Hmm? Are you going to treat us to a meal?” Dustin smiled teasingly.
“Stop talking back. I’m taking that Flower of Crimson Gem! Name your price!” She demanded angrily. Naturally, she wasn’t going to give up such a rare gem.
Dustin refused her outright. “I’m sorry, I’m not selling it.”
“Not selling?” Jayla scoffed coldly. “Let me tell you honestly. Since I want it, you are selling that treasure to me no matter what.”
Dustin raised his eyebrows. “Oh? Since when has that been the law?”
“Shut up! My words are the law!” She glared at him. “Don’t paint me as a bully. Since you spent two billion to purchase it, I’ll buy it back from you for two billion! You won’t incur any losses!”
“And if I don’t?” Dustin smiled. Did she take him for an idiot? He was to resell a two–billion–dollar purchase for two billion dollars?
“Then you’ll bear the consequences!” Jayla threatened.
The Flower of Crimson Gem would be able to elevate her brother’s martial arts prowess to another level. That was the reason she needed to obtain it, even if that meant putting down her dignity.
Chapter 381
“How disappointing. It seems like the Grant family only amounts to so much.” He shook his head.
“Let me repeat myself. I’m not selling the Flower of Crimson Gem. If you insist on stealing it from me, don’t blame me for taking action.” With that, he left, with Roderick following after him.
“Hmph, we’ll see who has the last laugh.” Jayla sneered and took out her phone, making a phone call..
In the whole Southern Province, he was the first to not yield to the Grants. Since he didn’t wish to part with his treasure, he shouldn’t blame her for his own demise.
They had just left the auction house when Dustin noticed they were being followed. He had to admit that the Grants were pretty efficient. It seemed like this wasn’t their first time.
“Mr. Rhys, it appears we have some unwanted company,” Roderick remarked, also noticing the tail.
“No need to bother about them. Let’s just leave quickly.” Dustin didn’t bother to confront them and was prepared to leave. However, things don’t always go as planned. A group of masked men suddenly had them surrounded when they reached a certain alley. There were around 20 to 30 men, each armed with a weapon.
“Hey, punk! I heard you got a valuable treasure with you. Give it to us, and I might let you two walk away alive!” The leader of the group brandished his knife, his tone frosty.
“Do you mean this?” Dustin took out the Flower of Crimson Gem.
The leader’s gaze betrayed his excitement. “That’s the one! Give it to me now!”
“Come get it yourself if you can.” Dustin placed it back into his pockets and beckoned them forward with his finger.
The leader’s expression darkened. He felt like he was being played. “Die, punk! Get him! We need to get that item back!” On his orders, the masked men charged forward at the same time.
Dustin smiled lightly, then flicked his wrist. Numerous silver needles shot out with sharp whistles, piercing straight into the men’s acupoints. The next second, they were frozen to the spot, and their weapons were still raised. It appeared as if time stopped for them, and the only thing they could move was their eyes.
“What?” The leader’s expression betrayed his horror as he took in the scene before him. Without any warning, another silver needle shot out and pierced into his neck. What followed was a numbing sensation that was hard to suppress. No matter how much he struggled to free himself, it was in vain.
“W–who are you?” He spat out with difficulty.
“I’m in a good mood today. I don’t wish to kill.” Dustin walked up to him and said coolly.
“When you get back, ask Jayla to stop provoking me. Otherwise, she wouldn’t be able to handle it when I decide enough is enough.” With that, he left haughtily, with Roderick behind him.
After 15 minutes, Jayla arrived at the scene and frowned. Not only was Dustin nowhere to be found, but her bodyguards were all frozen in their spots.
“What happened? Where’s my Flower of Crimson Gem?” Jayla questioned them sternly.
The leader appeared helpless as he responded, “Ms. Grant, he’s too strong. We’re no match for him.”
“What a bunch of useless trash! What am I paying you for if you can’t even handle some country bumpkin?” Jayla snapped at them.
They lowered their heads, unable to utter a word.
“Where did they go?” Jayla demanded.
The leader pondered for a moment. “I don’t know. But from their accents, they should be from Swinton.”
“Swinton?” She narrowed her eyes. “It just so happens that I’m heading there tomorrow to ask for the bride’s hand in my brother’s stead. Since he’s from Swinton, I’m going to find him no matter what!”
“Ms. Grant, he doesn’t seem like an ordinary person,” The leader advised.
“Hah! So what? Even if he had three heads and six arms. I’ll make sure to deal with him cleanly!”
She cocked her head up in confidence. “Hey! What are you still standing there for? Go back and get ready! We need to put on a good show worthy of our name for our journey to Swinton tomorrow!”
Chapter 382
The next day, back at Swinton, a convoy of luxury cars drove into Park Palace in a grandiose display. As their procession moved through the streets, it left a lasting impression of power and splendor.
By the entrance, the entire Harmon family had been waiting, with Jessica in the lead.
As the vehicles came to a stop, Jayla, who was dressed in luxurious clothing, was the first to disembark with an arrogant look on her face.
“Jayla, you’re here! Please, come in.” Jessica greeted her with a smile and a welcoming attitude. The person she was greeting was Tyler’s sister. Her standing among the entire Grant family was not to be taken lightly.
Jayla nodded in response. “Jessica, long time no see. Where’s Natasha? Why don’t I see her?”
“She’s inside getting ready. She won’t take much longer,” Jessica explained with a smile.
“Jayla, I prepared something for you when I found out you were visiting. Have a look.” At that moment, Quentin, who was standing beside them, took out a sapphire the size of an egg and passed it to her with both hands. Jayla was not only gorgeous, but she also came from a powerful family. That was why he knew she was the best match for him. Naturally, he wouldn’t give up the chance to leave a good impression.
It was his belief that every woman was weak against jewelry.
Jayla glanced at it. “Thanks.” However, instead of receiving it herself, she had the maid take it and put it away.
“Uh…” As he took in her disinterested look, the corners of his mouth twitched. He purchased that sapphire from some Amberson woman for more than a hundred million dollars. He had spent quite a fortune to impress the gorgeous woman and was aggrieved at her reaction.
“I should have gotten something cheaper,” Quentin silently mumbled.
“Jayla, tea is almost ready. Let’s head in first.” Jessica smoothed things over and invited the entourage inside. After they took their seats, she asked, “Jayla, may I know what brings you to Swinton this time?
“Jessica, in truth, I’m here regarding my brother’s wedding.” She drank a sip of tea and continued, According to the marriage agreement, there are around 20 days left before the union between the Harmons and the Grants. I’m just wondering how the preparations are going.”
“There is no need to worry. The Harmons‘ annual family gathering will be in a few days. We’ll be making arrangements during the gathering,” Jessica replied with a smile.
“That would be the best.” Jayla nodded and changed the subject. “However, I’ve been hearing rumors lately that Natasha has a boyfriend. I wonder if they are true.”
Jessica’s expression froze slightly with her words before she dismissed the idea with a wave of her hand. “That’s not true, of course. You shouldn’t listen to gossip like that. Besides, who could compare to your brother in the entire seven provinces of Balerno?
“That’s good to hear. You should be aware that my brother is deeply devoted to Natasha, and he
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Chapter 382
also has strict principles and doesn’t tolerate betrayals. With his personality, if he heard about the rumors, there’s no guarantee how he would retaliate.” Her words carried a hint of threat as she
warned.
“Please don’t worry. It is inevitable for our families to come together. I have faith the wedding will be held according to schedule.” Jessica smiled assuringly.
“Great!” Jayla raised her brows. “My brother will be back in two days. He will also be personally attending the Harmons‘ annual gathering to ask for the bride’s hand. I’m here to inform you of this
in advance.”
“No problem. We will make all the necessary arrangements.” Jessica nodded with a smile.
While they were talking, Natasha, who had finally finished getting ready, walked out of her bedroom.
“Natasha, you’re here. Sit down. We were just discussing your marriage with Tyler-”
Natasha raised her hand and interrupted her. “I heard everything. Jayla, my apologies in advance. I’m afraid we won’t be able to go through with this marriage.”
