The price of betrayal (Jack and Ashley) novel Chapter 332

Nolan's casual instruction to Blake to inspect Crystal of Devotion and, if suitable to do so, purchase it outright, left everyone momentarily stunned.

Was he really that straightforward?

Blake simply smiled. "Alright, no problem," he replied.

He approached Jennifer, a friendly glimmer in his eyes. "Jennifer, could I trouble you to show me Crystal of Devotion? If everything checks out, I can have the Norwich Jewelers team handle the buyback process immediately."

He added, "Of course, due to company policy, buybacks usually come with a discount, so it won't be the full original price.

"However, if you're not in a rush, I can arrange for it to be auctioned instead. Jewelry like Crystal of Devotion, crafted by a master, only appreciates in value over time."

It was indeed true—Crystal of Devotion was an exquisitely crafted, breathtakingly beautiful piece of jewelry. Such rare items naturally drew many admirers.

Jennifer, who was still processing everything, quickly handed over Crystal of Devotion, shaking her head.

"No. That won't be necessary. Turning it into money as quickly as possible would be ideal," she insisted.

She added, "I don't understand much about auctions, and honestly, I'd rather not complicate things."

Blake chuckled, carefully taking the exquisite piece from her. "Jennifer, if I had the money on hand, I'd buy it for myself right now. I never imagined Crystal of Devotion would be so breathtakingly beautiful."

After a moment of thought, he turned to Jennifer, his tone serious. "May I make a proposal? If you're truly intent on selling it, would you consider selling it directly to me?

"Rest assured, I'd pay the full price—no discounts. The only catch is that I'm currently short on cash. I can guarantee that you'll have the remaining balance within a week. What do you think?"

He turned back to Blake, grinning. "Mr. Norwich, would you mind if I joined the bidding?"

Blake shot him a half-serious glare. "Of course, I'd mind! I was ready to pay the original price, and now you want to make me fork out even more money?"

"Mr. Archie, I know you're doing this to flatter Mr. Greene, but honestly, there's no need for that. Let's not turn this into a competition."

Archie, unfazed by being called out, continued to smile. "Oh, Mr. Norwich, you jest. I'm not trying to flatter anyone."

"I'm simply… enchanted by the piece." He paused, his eyes glinting with determination. "I'll offer ten percent over the original price. How about that?"

Ten percent might not sound like much, but with Crystal of Devotion as the base, that meant a solid extra million.