Chapter 413
Tyler quickly caught Claude’s glance. His expression remained unreadable—calm and still like the surface of a deep well.
Even Linda, sitting next to Naomi, felt the tension in the air. She clenched her hands quietly, unnoticed by those around her.
The emcee pressed on, curiosity evident in her voice. “Friend? Who is this person? Are you close?” She carefully avoided asking whether the friend was a man or a woman—everyone already knew about Claude’s complicated connection to the Harrises.
Claude gave a soft smile and answered cautiously, “Yes, a very close friend.”
The emcee’s interest grew. “Is your friend married or single?”
“Married,” Claude replied simply.
Relieved, the emcee said warmly, “Ah, so they are married. It’s wonderful that you wish them happiness. A truly thoughtful gift.”
Claude added quietly, “I do hope they find joy together.”
His words carried a deeper meaning, but neither the emcee nor the audience picked up on the subtle hint.
Only Tyler’s gaze grew sharper, colder—he was the only one who seemed to sense the true message beneath Claude’s words.
Naomi was stunned by Claude’s boldness. His indirect statement felt like a direct challenge to the Harrises, sending her heart racing.
Oblivious to the tension, the emcee cheerfully continued, “We all envy your friend, Mr. Pearce. May they find everlasting happiness. Do you have any words for Mr. Harris here, who also participated in the auction?”
Claude looked directly at Tyler and said, “I must thank him for stepping aside and letting me win the bid.”
The audience laughed lightly, unaware of the undercurrent between the two men.
Turning to Tyler, the emcee asked, “Mr. Harris, any response?”
All eyes shifted to him. Olivia remained silent, watching quietly.
Tyler took the microphone with a calm composure. “Then I truly hope your wish is fulfilled, Mr. Pearce,” he said, before returning the microphone.
The emcee smiled brightly. “Mr. Pearce, anything else you’d like to add?”
Locking eyes once more with Tyler, Claude declared, “I’ll definitely make it happen.”
His gaze then shifted toward Olivia, making her heart pound fiercely. Though the audience assumed his look was meant for Tyler, Olivia felt as if she was the one being singled out.
She grew even quieter, swallowing nervously, uncertain and anxious about Claude’s intentions.
Meanwhile, Tyler simply smiled.