Married To My Billionaire Stepbrother novel Chapter 181

Chapter 181: Precious Gift

At the Ford’s banquet.

"This is one of the ancient jade relics, known as the Heart Stone," Eldric explained, his voice filled with awe as he stared at the red colour Jade in his hands.

"It has passed through the hands of many royal families and is said to protect a weak heart. It’s a priceless artifact that no one can easily acquire. It was guarded for centuries and was recently auctioned, attracting bids from the world’s wealthiest, including the four richest families in our city—none of whom could secure it. Instead, it was won by a mysterious businessman who paid a fortune, though no one knows his identity. To even touch it is beyond most of us. I’m lucky just to be holding it."

Eldric turned to Albert, his gaze warm. "Your heart is weak. This is an incredibly thoughtful and valuable gift for you."

Everyone gathered heard his words, and a wave of shock rippled through the room.

Natalie herself was taken aback. Did he really get this for Grandpa? But then, another realization struck her. Now everyone will want to know who my husband really is. I can’t let Justin’s identity be exposed... Why did he have to go overboard with the gift? Yet, glancing at her grandfather, she softened. But it’s good for Grandpa, so...

Albert, too, was stunned. He knew that Justin Harper had the means to purchase such an item, but he shared Natalie’s concern. Now everyone will start digging into who Natalie’s husband truly is.

Both Natalie and Albert exchanged knowing glances.

Sephina, Clara, Briena, and Jay were all visibly stunned by Eldric’s words. Each had the same question running through their minds: Is her husband really that rich? He acted so ordinary, even wearing cheap-looking clothes.

Briena, in particular, was shaken. That gigolo can’t possibly be rich. He might be good-looking, but there’s no way he’s wealthy. I can’t let Natalie marry someone better than Ivan. She can’t outshine me.

Ivan, too, was taken aback. He had yet to see Natalie’s husband and wasn’t certain of anything himself. Did she really marry a rich man and not some poor gigolo? A wave of jealousy twisted inside him.

"This can’t be right. Her husband is just some poor man," Maria declared. "Briena and the Ford family saw him. If he were wealthy, they would have recognized him."

Others who disliked Natalie quickly chimed in, backing up Maria’s claim.

"Yes, he’s no rich man—just a gigolo," one of Briena’s friends sneered. "If her husband were truly rich, why would she hide it?"

"This must be fake jade. There are so many imitations these days; you can buy them for a few bucks."

"Yes, it’s probably fake," another agreed.

Eldric glared at them. "Silence! If you don’t know anything, keep your mouths shut. This is the genuine article. I’m a jade expert—are you questioning my ability to recognize real jade?"

No one dared speak, as Eldric was well-known for his temper.

Another of Albert’s friends stepped forward. "Let me see it, Eldric."

Eldric carefully handed over the stone, and after examining it closely, the man confirmed, "It is indeed authentic," before turning to Natalie. "So, who is your husband? If he can afford this, then he must be an incredibly wealthy man."

"He’s... just my husband," Natalie replied, swallowing hard and glancing toward her grandfather for support.

"Come on, don’t be so harsh," one girl said, feigning sympathy. "Natalie told that reporter she has only one powerful backer. It must be that one." _{frёewebnoѵel.ƈo๓}

Briena and Clara ground their teeth in frustration, while Sephina, who had been quiet, narrowed her eyes at Natalie. A mysterious businessman purchased this jade. Does she have a connection with such a powerful person?