Her Hidden Crowns (Suzanne and Austin) novel Chapter 285

"Here's your gift," Austin stated.

Suzanne turned to him, her gaze falling on the small square box he placed before her.

His eyes held a trace of amusement as he said warmly, "Go on. Open it."

Yasmine and Aaron smiled as they watched.

Suzanne traced her fingers over the box, its velvet texture soft to the touch. Picking it up carefully, she lifted the lid.

Her eyes lit up instantly. Inside lay a platinum necklace adorned with multicolored gemstones. To an untrained eye, it might seem ordinary, but Suzanne recognized its origin at a glance.

It was a custom piece from the Art Deco era, commissioned by Iluria nobility. Handcrafted in gold, it featured inlays of aquamarine and diamonds. The design was inspired by leaves—each one meticulously textured and sculpted by hand, exuding both elegance and timeless charm.

"An antique necklace like this has a starting price in the millions. Well done, brat! You spoil your wife with something this exquisite, yet I never got such treatment!" Yasmine teased.

Austin remained unfazed. "You have Aaron. You don't need me pampering you."

Yasmine was momentarily speechless while Aaron chuckled but wisely stayed out of it.

Suzanne felt a flicker of awkwardness, but there was no denying the necklace's beauty and rarity. It was exactly her style.

Back then, she had been fascinated with collecting antique jewelry, eager to study the craftsmanship behind them. Yet despite years of searching, she had never managed to find even two pieces that showcased truly unique techniques.

And now, Austin had gifted her one for her birthday.

She looked up at him, eyes filled with delight. "I love it…"

Lowering her gaze, she admired the necklace up close, too hesitant to touch it. Sweat from her fingers could tarnish something so delicate.

Antique jewelry like this was highly susceptible to sweat and moisture.

Austin must have gone to great lengths to get it. The thought of him putting in so much effort just for her sent a tremor through her heart.

His gaze never left her. Seeing her genuinely pleased brought a rare smile to his lips. "I'm glad you like it."

Austin was already holding the necklace, waiting for her to turn around.

With everyone watching, Suzanne couldn't say no. She wore a smile and nodded. Wearing such a piece was an honor.

Austin carefully clasped the necklace around her neck. The moment it settled against her skin, it complemented her outfit perfectly. Her natural elegance made the antique piece look even more refined.

Emma cheered, "Aunt Suzanne looks like a princess from a fairytale!"

Her statement made Suzanne smile. Gently pinching Emma's cheek, she chimed, "You're the real princess."

Yasmine, still smiling, reached for another present and placed it in front of Suzanne.

"This is our birthday gift for you," she said.

Then, with a teasing lilt, she added, "Though it isn't as grand as his."

Suzanne was caught off guard. She had always known Yasmine didn't particularly like her. Yet today, Yasmine had prepared a gift for her.