“So, what’s the urgent matter?”
Vincent responded with a resonant and serious tone, “Monitor the entire surveillance network at the mall and make sure Katelyn is safe.”
Jaxen understood the urgency of those few words. Katelyn was at risk.
He wasted no time and dove into work.
Alfy sensed the tension but kept quiet, merely stretching her neck from the back seat to glimpse the laptop screen on Jaxen’s lap.
Quickly, Jaxen accessed the Westine Mall’s security system and pinpointed Katelyn’s location.
On the monitor, Katelyn and Ashlyn were seen approaching the jewelry counter, hand in hand.
Ashlyn’s eyes lit up with enthusiasm.
“Miss Bailey, the jade pieces here are exceptional! I have heard so much about Granville’s jade artisans, and they certainly live up to their reputation.”
She gazed admiringly at the various jade sculptures showcased behind the glass, her expression filled with genuine delight.
Her demeanor appeared sincere.
If this were an act, then Katelyn had to admit that Sophia, if it were her, was a remarkably skilled actress.
Katelyn indicated a green peony sculpture on the display and asked the attendant, “Could I take a closer look at this one?” The clerk gave Katelyn and Ashlyn a brief look, her expression betraying a hint of scorn.
Today, Ashlyn had left home adorned with only the simplest of plain necklaces, devoid of any jewelry.
Katelyn hadn’t bothered with earrings, rings, or bracelets either.
gα?ησν?sоm, where stories thrive
How could anyone assume they were wealthy?
Their attire also lacked any distinctive brand logos.
The saleswoman hesitated before saying, “I’m sorry, but this piece is quite rare. You may look, but please don’t touch. It’s costly to replace.”
Katelyn’s face clouded over instantly.
Ashlyn gently pulled on Katelyn’s arm, whispering, “Let’s just look, okay?”
The saleswoman believed her remark had hit a nerve with both Katelyn and Ashlyn.
With a sneer, she muttered under her breath, “What are these penniless people even doing here?”
Ashlyn’s expression fell as well.
Then, a voice echoed from behind them, teasingly, “My, my, you’ve become this impoverished so quickly? Even the sales staff are snubbing you now.”
Katelyn turned to see Lise, admirably dressed in a tailor-made outfit, her hair elegantly styled into soft, voluminous curls that flowed down her back.
The aroma of her perfume wafted over them, preceding her arrival. Though it was a premium scent, it was excessively strong.
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