Chapter 271 Shattered Illusions

"This Meteor Brooch was originally a global limited edition, with only two in existence." Samuel's gaze bore into Eleanor, his narrow eyes reflecting a deep, unreadable light. "I fell in love with it at first glance, but someone beat me to it, purchasing the pair before I had the chance."

His lips curved into a slight, almost mocking smile. "But I couldn’t let go of it, so I had a famous jeweler named Patrick create a replica for me. The brooch you hold was made exclusively by him. It looks identical to the original, but there are subtle differences."

Eleanor, stunned, instinctively glanced down at the "swan" brooch in her hand.

"The swan’s wings are smaller than the original," Samuel continued, stepping closer, his voice a cold whisper near her ear. "I prefer them that way—more delicate. If you don’t believe me, you can compare them…"

His confidence was palpable, but inside, Eleanor's thoughts spiraled into chaos.

The swan’s wings...