Chapter 57
Serena was momentarily caught off guard, and she glanced down.
Only then did she realize that ever since getting her marriage certificate, she had formed a habit of wearing a decorative ring on her ring finger.
It kept unwanted attention at bay during social events and added a nice touch to her overall look. But she had forgotten to put it on in the rush of this business trip.
No wonder that big shot from earlier hadn’t recognized her connection to Hugh.
“Right now,” Hugh said, then paid the bill and stood up with startling decisiveness.
Serena also got up, following him into the largest jewelry store nearby.
Inside, an array of dazzling jewelry sparkled under the showroom lights, making Serena’s head spin. She figured she’d just simply pick one.
But before she could even start browsing, Hugh spoke. “Bring out your best diamond ring.”
Serena was speechless. This wasn’t even a real wedding ring. Did it really need to be that extravagant?
Before she could say anything, the store attendant had already returned, presenting an exquisite ring–a rare natural red diamond with a price tag in the eight–figure range. Serena’s gaze lingered on the staggering number for a second longer than necessary.
Then, Hugh asked, “Do you have anything better?”
“Something better?” The attendant blinked in surprise before quickly responding, “Next month, there’s an exclusive auction featuring an exceptionally rare natural blue diamond. If you’re interested, you can bid on it and have it custom–cut into a ring or even a necklace here in our store.”
Blue diamond… Serena had decorated the home in a style with plenty of soft sky–blue accents.
Hugh tilted his head slightly and caught how she listened attentively to the attendant.
“What do you think of this one?”
“It’s nice-”
Before Serena could finish, Hugh had already slipped the ring onto her finger.
“Wear this for now. I’ll get the blue diamond next month and have a custom set made for you.”
Serena fell silent. It cost eight figures, and he said that it was just “for now“? The Larson family’s wealth was truly on another level.
Still… she had to admit that she really liked the ring.
“Then, thank you, Mr. Larson.”
“As long as you like it.”
Hugh handed his card to the attendant, and his gaze dropped to her hand. The red diamond ring contrasted against her fair skin, making it look even more delicate.
He took her hand again and ran his thumb lightly along the ring’s edge as if confirming the fit. Only then did he let go.
Serena, however, felt the lingering warmth on her finger. Her heart skipped a beat.
He was just checking out the ring. So, why was her heart racing?
Chandler had already arranged accommodations in advance at one of the Larson Group’s hotels, ensuring everything was ready before their arrival. After settling in for the night, they would head to one of the Larson Group’s branch offices the next morning to finalize the details of the shopping mall.
Maybe it was her mood, but Serena slept pleasantly well that night.
The next day, a driver took them to Larson’s Group’s branch office.
The building’s interior had the same aesthetic as the headquarters.
The moment Hugh stepped inside, a director and several managers immediately gathered around, proposing an impromptu meeting.
Serena took that as her cue to step back. “I’ll wait for you in the lounge.”
“Alright.” Hugh’s answer was short, but there was something reassuring about it.
The director and managers, who had initially dismissed Serena as just another secretary, subtly adjusted their attitudes as Serena seemed like Hugh’s girlfriend according to the way he spoke.
No one at this branch knew much about Hugh’s personal life, but since he had personally brought Serena along, the assistant, William Brooks was particularly attentive and led her to the largest lounge.
“No need to have anyone stay with me. I’ll just kill time on my phone.”
“Understood. If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to ask.” William nodded slightly before leaving the lounge.
As silence enveloped the lounge Serena scrolled through the latest trending news absentmindedly.
Then, a click sounded, and the door suddenly swung open.
