Mission: From Divorcee to Millionaire

Selena paused for a moment. She had anticipated needing to jump through hoops before he would lend a hand with this issue, given his usual antics. But this time, he was surprisingly efficient. Perhaps he still had a scrap of conscience left. Feeling relieved, Selena found herself softening towards him, her tone gentler, "Alright, got it."

After hanging up, Selena rested her chin on her hand, lost in thought. She and Sydney weren't exactly close, and she had no idea what Sydney liked.

Apologizing needed a personal touch, something that would really resonate.

Selena shot a message to Joy, who was the go-to person for all the latest scoop in their circle. If anyone knew, it'd be her.

As expected, Joy delivered the goods: [Sydney's a fan of emerald. She's into collecting emerald pendants. I remember there's this vintage emerald pendant at the Gallery she'd love.] Joy sent over the details of the pendant.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDrâ/ma.O(r)g!

Selena's eyes widened at the price tag. Seven figures... It was going to be a big hit to her already tight finances.

But for Ricky, it was worth it!

Since it was still early, Selena told her driver to head straight to the Gallery. She planned to buy the pendant first, then swing by her apartment to pack for her trip back to Moon Bay. About thirty minutes later, they arrived at Gallery, and Selena stepped inside.

The clientele here was clearly well-heeled, so the staff were all smiles and politeness, ushering her into a cozy lounge and offering coffee and pastries.

Not about to waste time, Selena pulled up the photo of the emerald pendant and showed it to the sales associate, getting straight to the point. "I want this one."

The sales associate, delighted by her directness, grinned. "Excellent choice. This is a limited edition, blessed by a master, and it's one of a kind. I'll get it for you right away." She turned and left.

Selena smirked and took a sip of her coffee.

Soon, the sales associate returned, carefully holding a beautifully crafted box. She set it on the table before Selena and lifted the lid, revealing the pendant.

The emerald was top-notch, brilliantly clear and shiny. The detailed craftsmanship made the pendant look almost alive.

After checking it over to make sure everything was in order, Selena nodded. "Please wrap it up nicely for me. It's a gift."

"Of course."

Just as the sales associate was about to close the lid, a hand with perfectly manicured nails reached in to stop her, followed by a sultry voice, "This pendant looks pretty nice."

A wave of perfume hit Selena, and she glanced up to see Margot, 0 dressed in head-to-toe designer gear, flanked by a slew of assistants. Her entourage was as grand and flashy as ever.

Selena raised an eyebrow but said nothing.

Taking in Selena's calm, unbothered demeanor, a glint of annoyance flashed in Margot's eyes, quickly. replaced by a sly smile. She turned to the sales associate, "I'll take it."

The sales associate looked conflicted, "Ms. Margot... this... Ms. Selena asked for it first. Perhaps you'd like to see our other pieces? We have a lot more..." Before she could finish, Margot interrupted impatiently, "I want this one. She hasn't paid yet, so it's not hers."

"As far as I know, the Gallery has a bidding policy. Whoever bids the highest can purchase the item. I'm offering double right now. If she can't match my offer, it's mine!"

The Gallery did indeed have such a policy, leaving the sales associate at a loss. She turned to Selena. "Ms. Selena, would you like to raise your bid?"