MY EX-HUSBAND'S OBSESSION

Shopping

Clara noticed that Secretary didn't look very happy.

Their assistant, Den, tried to explain, "Sir said that Madame can buy whatever she likes... I heard Professor Joe has been talking about Tiffany's jewelry recently. Madame could go and take a look, or if she's willing, we can even arrange for Tiffany's designer to create a custom piece for her."

Clara managed a smile and replied, "Thank you, Den. I think I'll go out for a bit. It's been quite stuffy at home these past few days. Lin, could you please help me get ready?"

Den asked, "Should I call the stylist for you?"

Clara shook her head and said, "No, that won't be necessary."

In truth, Clara's appearance was already impeccable. Even without a stylist, She had a natural charm that had caught Marion's eye among all the potential marriage candidates.

The smith family was relatively unknown in the upper circles of City's society. Marion's interest in Clara was seen as an act of kindness by some. The consensus was that Marion had been captivated by the Smith's heir's exquisite looks. A beauty like Clara would attract other prominent figures, even if she didn't marry into the Roger family.

Three years into their marriage, Clara had come to understand her role clearly – She was Marion's plaything. When Marion was in a good mood, Clara received affection, but when Marion was not, it could be as cruel as that day.

Now, Clara was receiving a sweet treat from Marion, which coincided with a family banquet at the Roger ancestral estate. Besides picking things she liked for herself, she had to select gifts for the Roger family's elders and juniors.

This sweet treat seemed somewhat hasty, like an afterthought.

But Clara had no right to throw a tantrum. Marion offered, and Clara had to accept it with joy and a smiling face.

Most of City's top luxury boutiques were owned by the Roger family. When Clara went shopping, the entire mall essentially opened its doors to her. Den had already made arrangements for Clara, with managers coming out to greet her upon arrival.

One manager recognized Den, and they had met Clara once before, making them something like acquaintances. The manager was very enthusiastic and provided tailored selections, likely informed that Clara was here to pick a gift for the Rong family matriarch.

"Take a look at this jewelry set. Nine jadeite egg-face pendants, all glassy jadeite, with a fine and pure texture, completely free of impurities. The connecting parts are made up of diamond-studded plum blossoms, ten in total, symbolizing perfection."

Clara's eyes swept over the jewelry. "I'd like to see it up close."

The manager, quick-witted, understood that Clara hadn't shown any interest in the pieces introduced earlier. So, with a subtle signal to a*****e assistant, they promptly displayed a large batch of new styles after Clara had examined a couple.

Everyone waited silently as Clara carefully browsed the selection. Surprisingly, he didn't find any piece that satisfied him. The manager hesitated and said, "How about I take you to other counters?"

Clara nodded. At the next store, after a short browse, Clara selected a ring. The centerpiece of the ring was a massive purple glassy jadeite known as the 'Star of Brilliance.' Its colors were resplendent and translucent, resembling a magical and twinkling starry sky. This series featured a total of nine rings, encircling the giant peony-shaped main jadeite stone, forming a breathtaking ensemble.

She said, "I'll take this one."

The manager seemed a bit embarrassed. "Madame, I'm truly sorry. This 'Star of Brilliance' set is our flagship piece."

Clara questioned, "So, you don't sell it to the public?"

The manager hesitated once more, glanced at Den, who gave a subtle nod, and replied, "Well, not exactly. But for someone like you, it should be possible."

After all, the entire luxury industry was under the Roger family's umbrella. While they could use this line with other customers, when a Roger family member came, it was a different story. Den had emphasized that Clara should receive whatever she wanted, including this flagship piece. Moreover, in a worst-case scenario, this flagship piece was meant for the Rong family matriarch, and Clara's choice would still shine brightly in its own right.

Clara smiled. "Then please wrap it up."

The manager quickly nodded and had one of the nine pieces brought forward. Clara wandered off to another Cartier watch counter, and the manager discreetly contacted Den.

On the other end of the call, Den was momentarily taken aback. It seemed he hadn't expected this development. He said, "Just have it wrapped for now."

After ending the call, Den waited for a moment before choosing a time when Marion wasn't busy to inform him about Clara taking possession of the flagship piece. Marion's mood appeared to be quite good on the other end, and he didn't say much. He just inquired about Clara's whereabouts.

Den checked the schedule Marion had reported and replied, "Madame left about half an hour ago."