Isabella felt a sharp pang of disappointment.

She never anticipated Ethan would side with Sophia at the auction.

Her voice came out soft, laced with a plea. "Ethan..."

He ignored her completely.

His cold gaze remained locked on the auctioneer.

Lucas’s jaw was set with determination. He raised his paddle again. "Eighteen million!"

Ethan countered without hesitation, his tone firm. "Twenty million."

Lucas pushed further, strain evident in his voice. "Twenty-two million!"

The air grew thick with tension.

Every attendee held their breath.

Ethan’s voice cut through the silence, decisive. "Fifty million."

Defeated, Lucas lowered his paddle. His shoulders slumped.

The auction gavel fell with a heavy thud.

The Starlight Stone had a new owner.

Isabella sank back into her seat. All color drained from her face.

She looked utterly defeated.

Lucas watched her, concern etching his features. He was at a loss for words.

Backstage, Sophia clutched the ornate box. Victory shone on her face.

She moved closer to Ethan, whispering, "Thank you, Ethan."

He took the box from her. He lifted the lid to examine the luminous stone inside.

His voice was devoid of emotion. "This wasn't for you."

A cold dread washed over Sophia. Her smile froze. "What did you say?"

He snapped the box shut. He began to walk away. "You should know. I never had feelings for you."

Sophia’s face turned ashen. Her fingers tightened around her clutch.

Lucas wore a look of deep remorse. "Isabella, I'm sorry. I failed you."

She offered a weak smile. She shook her head. "It's not your fault, Lucas. I appreciate everything you did."

His heart ached watching her try to stay strong.

"Let's go," she said, standing.

They left the auction hall side by side. A cool night breeze brushed her face.

It did nothing to ease the chill in her heart.

Losing the stone meant the "Dewy Hibiscus" revival was postponed indefinitely.

Her studio's crisis remained unresolved.

"Let me drive you home," Lucas offered, his voice heavy with worry.

She shook her head gently. "Thank you, but I need to be alone right now."

He watched her solitary figure walk away. A mix of emotions churned within him.

Isabella returned to her studio. She stared blankly at the designs scattered across her desk.