“Excellent.” Sophia’s lips curved into a satisfied smile. “We keep the pressure on from every angle. She won’t get a chance to breathe, let alone recover.”

“Understood,” Julian Foster responded without hesitation. “I’ll follow your instructions precisely.”

Sophia lifted her delicate porcelain cup, taking a slow sip of her espresso. A dark, calculating glint shone in her eyes as she gazed past him. “This time, Isabella Scott, I will personally ensure you vanish for good.”

Ethan Reed didn’t take long to deliver his findings. “I’ve identified the source, Miss Scott. The individual behind the smear campaign is Julian Foster. He paid off several media outlets to run those defamatory pieces about your studio.”

“Julian…” Isabella’s gaze sharpened. “Just as I suspected.”

She drew a steadying breath, her fingers tapping a light rhythm on her desk. “Send the full report to the police.”

Victoria Lee looked at her, surprised. “But—”

“We have concrete evidence. The police will have no choice but to act against Julian,” Isabella stated firmly. “Let them handle him. Our main focus now is locating the Starlight Stone and repairing the Dewy Hibiscus.”

Victoria nodded and immediately began contacting the authorities. Isabella turned back to her computer, resuming her search for information on the elusive gem.

She was deep in research on a specialized forum when a notification flashed across her screen. A private auction was scheduled in three days at the exclusive Cloud Summit Club. The Starlight Stone was listed among the items.

A spark of hope ignited within her, only to be quickly dampened. The Cloud Summit Club was notoriously private, a playground for the elite. Entry was strictly by invitation only.

“The Starlight Stone…” she murmured, her mind racing for a solution.

The studio door opened then, and Lucas Grant walked in.

“Isabella. Everything alright?” Concern was evident on his face.

“Trying to track down the Starlight Stone,” she replied, offering a faint, tired smile.

“The Starlight Stone? That’s an exceptionally rare find. It won’t be easy to acquire.” Lucas moved around her desk, his eyes scanning the auction details still displayed on her screen. “The Cloud Summit Club… That’s not an easy venue to access, either.”

Isabella released a frustrated sigh. “I know. But this auction seems like my only lead right now.”

Lucas studied her worried expression for a moment before a slow, knowing smile spread across his face. “As it happens, I have an invitation to that very auction.”

Isabella’s eyes immediately lit up with renewed hope. “Really? Would you… would it be possible for me to accompany you?”

Catching the eager anticipation in her voice, Lucas gave a reassuring nod. “Of course. It would be my pleasure.”

Gratitude washed over her. “Thank you, Lucas! Truly.”

He watched her, a warm feeling spreading through his chest. “It’s nothing. Don’t mention it.”

Without delay, Isabella began her preparations for the auction. She pored over the digital catalog, noted the Starlight Stone’s starting bid, and formulated her bidding strategy. Determination solidified within her. She whispered a vow to herself, “The Starlight Stone will be mine.”