Page 90 of The Devil's Fire

“Can’t relate. Imagine how many chicken nuggets I could get for that money. Now, that’s worth throwing money at.” I said in all seriousness, and Damiano chuckled.

“We can get you some chicken nuggets after.”

“I’m telling you; it’s worth every penny.” Damiano slightly shook his head, completely amused that I was discussing chicken nuggets with such seriousness.

“Ladies and gentlemen, it is with a great privilege that I stand before you today to introduce a true marvel of nature’s artistry; the renowned Tiffany Yellow Diamond!” The entire banquet gasped by the incredible diamond necklace.

“This is one of the largest yellow diamonds that has ever been discovered in 1878 in South Africa. Expert craftsmen and lapidaries from the renowned house of Tiffany & Co. recognized its potential and undertook the delicate task of shaping it into a gem that would inspire awe for generations to come.”

From the moment I laid eyes on the necklace, I was captivated by its beauty. The beauty of it was almost surreal. The necklace was a medium-length chain fashioned entirely from glistening diamonds. As my gaze descended along the chain, it left me awestruck.

An enormous yellow diamond.

“This awe-inspiring gem, cut into a cushion shape, is a treasure trove of 83 facets that form a mesmerizing dance of brilliance and fire. Among these facets, delicate needle-like projections extend outward from the culet facet, adding a touch of uniqueness to its splendor.”

“Wow… That looks so majestic.” I couldn’t take my eyes off the necklace. “I can’t wait to see who’s going to bid on that.” I said in awe and looked at Damiano. His gaze swiftly landed on my neck before lingering on the necklace.

“It’s pretty.” His simple statement made me laugh. The necklace was out of this world, and he thought it was only pretty.

“… Do I hear twenty million dollars?”

I choked on my own spit when I heard the starting price.

“Holy shit…” I muttered under my breath.

“Twenty-five!”

I heard the familiar voice and turned my head in its direction. It was Alexei Vasiliev.

“Twenty-five million dollars coming from Mr. Alexei Vasiliev!” The auctioneer said, delighted.

“Thirty.” Damiano’s calm demeanor was a sharp contrast to my own as I snapped my head back to look at him bidding on the necklace.

Is he insane?!

“Thirty-five!” Alexei happily bid, looking in our direction and grinning at Damiano.

“Thirty-five million dollars! Do I hear any more?” The auctioneer’s eyes darted back and forth between them, waiting to see if Damiano was going to bid again.

“Going once… going twice…”

“Fifty million dollars.” Damiano’s bid had the entire banquet hall erupted in a flurry of shocked whispers. Damiano was completely unfazed, his eyes set on Alexei.

“Fifty million dollars from Mr. Damiano Bellavia!” The auctioneer let out a gleeful eruption. I glanced at Alexei, and he responded by raising his hands in surrender, a grin spreading across his face.

“Sold to Mr. Damiano Bellavia!”

The roar of applause faded away as I turned my attention to Damiano. I was lost for words. A freaking necklace had just cost him fifty million dollars, and he didn’t bat an eye.

“You’re insane.” I breathed out in shock.

“Only for you, my Althaia.” Damiano placed a gentle kiss on my bare shoulder before leaning in to whisper in my ear. His lips grazed my earlobe, sending shivers down my spine as I let out a small breath.

“I want you to wear it. And nothing else.” He whispered, sending a pooling heat low in my stomach.

twenty-eight

Althaia

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