Chapter 880: Fine Tea

Before the guests could even glimpse Natalie’s calligraphy masterpiece, Ethan Maguire, the shrewd old fox, made a hasty exit, clutching the piece as though his life depended on it. He clearly feared someone else might snatch it away. “Mr. Maguire, let us at least take a look before you leave!” the crowd called out in protest. But Ethan Maguire paid them no mind. He hadn’t even paid for it yet—what if someone saw it and offered a higher bid? Forget it! The crowd grumbled, “And here we thought he was a distinguished calligrapher—what a cheapskate!” Natalie, however, smiled indifferently, her expression calm and composed. But even in this moment of calm, she felt a sharp and resentful gaze aimed directly at her. Following the source of the hostility, Natalie turned her head. Her red lips curved into a teasing smile, dazzling and intoxicating. River Swanson, who had drawn so much attention earlier with her own calligraphy, now stood alone, utterly ignored. Some guests