chapter146

"The size, the shape, the color... they're exactly the same. This is definitely the kind of stuff that comes from big farm production," Milana said, peering closer.

Milana and Jenson both craned their necks for a better look. For a moment, neither could speak. This couldn't be right. Even if these weren't worth millions, they should at least be worth a hundred thousand. How could they be just a couple thousand?

Sandy stared, too, completely thrown. She compared what she had bought with the pictures online, and honestly, they looked just about the same. Did the store scam her? Were these antlers not even worth five thousand?

"Hmph, those pictures online are all fake!" Milana snapped, clearly desperate to save face. "They look the same, but when you actually get them, they're totally different. They probably just stole those photos!" No matter what, she was not going to admit she was wrong. Lydia couldn't get through to her.

Jenson, sensing they were losing control, jumped in. Yeah, there are so many fakes online. Lydia, seriously, can you stop making a scene? Sure, Sandy's antlers aren't as good as yours, but they aren't as cheap as you say either. If something was only worth two thousand, we wouldn't even take it, let alone give it to your grandma for her legs." He made sure to add that last part, trying to get everyone on his side.

"So, you're just going to deny it no matter what?" Lydia's smile was ice-cold.

"We're not denying anything. You just haven't shown us any real proof," Milana shot back.

"The easiest way is to get an expert to check," Connor said suddenly. He walked over, gifts put away, and his long strides seemed to fill up the tiny living room. His presence was impossible to ignore.

Sandy's heart skipped a beat. Was it even possible for someone to look that good?

Even Milana was stunned by Connor's vibe, but she kept up her tough act. It's the middle of the night, and we're in the countryside. Where are we supposed to find an expert? We need to get home. We really don't have time for this."

Jenson clearly didn't want to stick around either. "Yeah, it's late. Maybe we should just head out."

Lydia's lips curled. "Trying to sneak away?"

"Lydia, come on. What kind of thing is that to say? I just don't want everyone to end up embarrassed," Jenson said, trying to play the nice guy.

"No rush. The expert will be here any minute," Lydia replied, totally calm.

Milana started to panic. "What... what do you mean?"

Just then, a strong but elderly voice called from outside, "Lydia, is Lydia back?"

The color drained from Milana and Jenson's faces.

Lydia hurried out to the door and saw a skinny old man with silver hair, striding toward her with surprising energy.

"Oh, Lydia, you're back! Did you find the golden antlers in the city?"

"Yes, I did, Mr. Roth."

snet

Mr. Roth was a legend doctor in the village. His son even had a herbal shop in the city. The old man was amazing at treating tough cases, and people came from all around just to see him. He'd told Lydia before that if she ever found golden antlers, she had to let him take a look. So, on her way home, she'd sent him a message.

Mr. Roth walked in, looking around at all the people. "Well, this is quite the party he said, but his eyes quickly found the box in Lydia's

hands. My goodness never

thought I'd actually see golden

antlers of this quality in my lifetime. Lydia, these must have cost you a fortune."

Lydia smiled, holding out the other set. "Mr. Roth, would you mind taking a look at

these too? I'd love to hear what you think."