Prologue

BIDDING ON LOVE

All photos used are not mine; all proper credits belong to the rightful owners.

The skyline of Rockwell shimmered in the morning sun, the glass and steel towers standing as a testament to human ambition and relentless pursuit of success. In the heart of this urban jungle, the headquarters of Aphrodite Galleries and it's mother company, Gusmi Museums and Galleries Association, stood tall. A sleek, modern building that mirrored the city's blend of history and innovation. Inside, the air buzzed with the hum of productivity, a symphony of phones ringing, keyboards clacking, and voices murmuring in hushed tones.

Yoona Lim, the youngest CEO in the company’s history, stood at the window of her office on the top floor, her gaze fixed on the bustling streets below. Her office was a blend of elegance and efficiency, with minimalist decor that allowed the sweeping views of the city to take center stage. A collection of contemporary art pieces adorned the walls, each one a silent testament to her impeccable taste and keen eye for value.

Today, however, her usually calm demeanor was tinged with a hint of anticipation and perhaps a touch of irritation. She glanced at the clock on her desk, noting that her 10 AM appointment was running late. Junho Lee, the scion of an old money dynasty and notorious for his arrogance, was coming to demand the return of an 18th-century heirloom that had found its way to her auction house.

Yoona had done her research. The heirloom, known as the Salvation Necklace, was a breathtaking piece of jewelry crafted for a duchess in the late 1700s. It was recently donated by Junho’s step grandfather, unaware of its sentimental value to their family. The necklace was scheduled to be the centerpiece of their upcoming anniversary auctions, and removing it now would not only disrupt the event but also potentially damage the reputation she had meticulously built.

As she prepared for the meeting, Yoona’s thoughts were interrupted by a soft knock on the door. Her secretary, Hana, peeked in, her expression a mix of amusement and sympathy.

“Ms. Yoona, Mr. Lee has arrived,” she announced.

Yoona took a deep breath, smoothing her tailored blazer as she turned to face the door. “Thank you, Hana. Please show him in.”

The door opened wider to admit Junho Lee and his assistant, and Yoona’s first impression of him was of a man who exuded confidence and privilege. Tall and impeccably dressed in a tailored suit, he moved with the ease of someone accustomed to commanding attention. His dark brown hair was neatly styled, and his sharp russet eyes seemed to take in everything with a critical gaze.

“Ms. Lim,” he greeted, his voice smooth but with an edge that suggested he was not here for pleasantries.

“Mr. Lee, welcome,” Yoona replied, extending her hand. “Please, have a seat.”

Blurb  |  Chapter One