Chapter 40

The next afternoon, Georgina paced nervously in the private consultation room of the jewelry store. Nearly an hour had passed while various staff members bustled in and out, magnifying glasses and gemological instruments in hand as they verified the authenticity of her mother's precious collection. Of course, she wasn't worried about authentication,she knew every piece was genuine. Her real concern was whether they would fetch anywhere near the amount Klaus needed. One million dollars. The sum still made her head spin. What kind of trouble could have possibly led him to such astronomical debt? No wonder he'd resorted to escorting. After another thirty minutes of anxious waiting, the door opened. The store manager walked in,a distinguished older gentleman with half-moon glasses who looked exactly like you'd expect a luxury jewelry appraiser to look. "I apologize for the wait, Ms. Devins," he said with a warm smile. "It's fine. Is the examination complete?" she asked, straightening in he