Oliver stepped forward quickly, holding a gleaming emery box in his hand. With a polite smile, he said, “Happy birthday, Mrs. Wren James. This is a gift from Mr. Elijah.”
Wren opened the box to reveal an exquisite blue diamond ring, the size of a pigeon’s egg, encircled by smaller white diamonds. Its design was both opulent and refined, catching the light in a way that made it appear even more dazzling.
Oliver took the ring and carefully slipped it onto Wren’s finger. Her face glowed with delight as she admired the piece. “It’s stunning on you,” he said warmly.
Someone in the crowd, clearly familiar with luxury jewelry, spoke up, “This is a custom piece commissioned through Bulgari by an anonymous buyer. I heard it was auctioned not long ago for $45 million. It’s said to be 11 carats!”
“Actually, it’s 12.15 carats,” Oliver corrected, ever the professional.
The crowd gasped in astonishment.
The guests—elite members of society from both Orisetta and Maynard’s most affluent families, each boasting billions in net worth—couldn’t hide their shock. It was rare to see such an astronomical sum spent on a single gift, especially for a birthday celebration.
“The James family’s wealth truly knows no bounds,” one guest whispered, awed by the sheer display of generosity.
Compliments followed swiftly:
“Elijah is such a devoted grandson!”
“What a grand gesture from Mr. James!”
“Wren, you’re so fortunate to have such a thoughtful grandson. Unlike us—we spend all our time cleaning up after our unruly grandson.”
“This diamond is so dignified and graceful—it suits Wren James perfectly.”
The voices overlapped as each guest tried to have their praise heard.
Just as the flattery reached its peak, Aaron walked in, his eyes lighting up at the lively scene.
“Mrs. Wren James, happy birthday! You look younger every year! When I first walked in, I thought you were one of Elijah’s distant aunts!” Aaron approached Wren, bowing respectfully before handing his gift—an intricately crafted antique vase—to one of the James family’s attendants. “This is for your bedroom, to brighten it up.”
