Chapter 48

Marlon slowly opened the box in his hands.

A set of deep blue jewelry appeared before Emily's eyes.enchanting and profound. like the depths of the ocean, hiding countless stories and emotions.

Each gem sparkled with a unique light, reflecting off one another, dreamlike and magical.

Emily asked, "What is this?"

She gasped, her eyes filled with surprise and admiration. She recognized it as the jewelry that won the Most Collectible Award at last year's Veridian International Exhibition. After the show,it disappeared,bought by The Hughes Group.

Seeing Emily's fascination, Marlon gently pushed the velvet box towards her and said. "It's for you."

His voice was gentle yet firm, as if he had thought it through.Emily stepped back in shock, "For me?"

Her eyes widened with surprise and confusion. Even though she wasn't in the industry last year, she knew this jewelry had dominated fashion and top jewelry magazine covers.

This set of Tears of Elegance Collection was priceless. Each year,

only one piece of jewelry received this honor, often bought for collection and treasured.

Its design, collectibility, and fame made it invaluable.

Emily knew that after it won the gold award, someone offered $200 million to buy it, but the final price was unknown.She quickly closed the box, resisting the urge to accept it,her hands trembling as if holding a bomb.

She wondered how Marlon could casually take out such a valuable item. Shouldn't it be under heavy security?

Rumors of spending a fortune for a woman's smile weren't false; Marlon's dedication to her was beyond imagination.

Emily pushed the box back to Marlon, "It's called the Tears of Elegance Collection,right?"

Her voice was soft.

Marlon nodded, "I think the name doesn't suit me. I don't like seeing women cry. Giving you this jewelry, I hope you never cry for anyone again because you have the Tears of Elegance Collection."

His eyes were gentle and sincere.

Anyone would be moved by these words, especially since this wasn't a small amount, and even the Hughes Family couldn't

casually take it out.

Emily smiled but spoke seriously, "I can't accept this jewelry.We're just friends, and I'm your employee. I can't accept such an expensive gift. I want our relationship to be based on equality and respect. I came here to get away from Patrick.Do you want to become another Patrick?"

Her eyes were firm and clear, her determination undeniable.

She knew she couldn't accept it, given its value and not wanting to complicate her emotional life. Besides, she hadn't developed feelings for Marlon and felt unworthy of his sincerity.

Marlon quickly caught himself, realizing how presumptuous he sounded. He waved his hand and said, "No, Emily, don't think like that. I'm not like Patrick. He never knew how to appreciate you the way you deserve. I really like you! Do you honestly believe my reputation is that bad?"

His eyes were eager and hopeful, wishing Emily would understand his feelings.

"My family keeps arranging blind dates for me. I got so annoyed that I started partying and drinking, but I was never serious. I always went home on time. It was all fake. Please believe me."

Marlon anxiously explained, his face turning red. Emily felt he was different from before.

Despite his bad reputation, Marlon was a young man in his mid-twenties.

After spending time with him, Emily discovered the playboy rumors were false; there were no women around him. It showed that the gossip about wealthy families couldn't be trusted.

Marlon's words moved Emily. It was true that you couldn't judge a book by its cover; Marlon was sincere and straightforward.

Emily smiled and handed back the Tears of Elegance Collection,"No matter what, this jewelry has speciaI significance to your family. Can I really keep it safe? Do you want me to get assassinated for wearing it out?"

Her tone was light and humorous, easing the awkward atmosphere.

Marlon was stunned. Indeed, as Emily said, this top-tier jewelry was kept in a century-old safe at home. Wherever she took it, it would be troublesome.

He realized that his actions might have been too hasty.

Marlon thought, if Emily married him, giving her the jewelry would mean it had a home.

With that thought, a smile crept onto his face, filled with shy

anticipation, as if seeing a beautiful future.

Emily saw Marlon's silly smile and was taken aback, finding him more genuine. This silly look seemed familiar.

She suddenly thought of a quirky girl she knew and considered introducing them as friends.

Marlon and Melissa might have an interesting reaction.