Chapter 424

At the auction, Madeleine sat stiffly between Kimberly and Caroline—one clinging to her left hand, the other squeezing her right. She was practically pinned in place, like some hostage at a fancy event. "Maddy, if you spot anything you like, just let Mom know, okay?" Kimberly said with a gentle smile. Madeleine shook her head, voice barely above a whisper. "Mom, I don't really need anything." Kimberly gave her daughter a sympathetic squeeze. On the other side, Caroline chimed in, "Sweetie, do you like that jewelry set? Godmother's got it covered—it would look perfect on you." Madeleine glanced helplessly at Beckett, hoping he'd bail her out. He just shot her a wink and grinned. Left with no choice, Madeleine ducked her head in silence. And so, the million-dollar jewelry set landed in Caroline's hands—for Madeleine. "Up next, we've got a special item donated by Mr. Matthias—a Qing dynasty blue-and-white porcelain piece," the auctioneer announced with a bright smile. Naturally, anyone ho