Chapter 343 Its a shame theres no realpetition , Aspen saidzily , stifling a yawn .


    Lets open two more stones for fun , and then well head out .


    She lifted a finger , casually signaling the gem cutter to begin again .


    Her every movement captivated the crowd , who watched eagerly , anticipating another jaw dropping disy of her talent .


    Before the cutter could start , a calm but distinct voice cut through the chatter .


    Excuse me , could you help me cut this stone ? Though the voice was not particrly loud , it seemed to pierce through the noise , drawing everyones attention .


    Instantly , the crowd erupted in irritation .


    Whos this clown ? Cant they see Ms.


    Stevens is about to make her move ? Ms.


    Stevens is ying at the highest level why waste time with someone else cutting a stone thats probably worthless ? Whoever it is , they need to leave .


    Todays show belongs to Ms.


    Stevens , and no one should get in the way .


    else The disgruntled murmurs turned into curious stares as people turned toward the source of the voice .


    A momentter , someone gasped .


    Its Mr.


    Lloyd ! Hes back ! The realization swept through the crowd , leaving them stunned .


    Andrew stepped forward , his expression calm andposed .


    He asked , Whats the problem ? Is gemstone cutting exclusive to Aspen now ? Or can others join in too ? The gem cutter quickly smiled , trying to ease the tension .


    Of course not , Mr.


    Lloyd .


    Gemstone cutting is open to everyone as long as the rules are followed .


    Which stone would you like me to open ? Ill ask another cutter to handle your stone Francescas voice rang out , sharp and cold .


    Oh ? Are you saying we arent worth your full attention ? The cutters face stiffened awkwardly .


    It was clear where his prioritiesy he was far more interested in assisting Aspen as she dazzled the crowd .


    One of the younger onlookers , a wealthy heir who had earlier mocked Andrew , sneered , Mr.


    Lloyd , stick to antiques .


    This is way above your pay grade .


    You sure you even know what youre doing ? Andrews tone remained steady .


    Theres only one way to find out .


    1/2  Chapter 343 The young manughed .


    Dont say I didnt warn you .


    Gambling with gemstones isnt for amateurs its easy to lose everything and ruin your reputation in one bad call .


    Aspen chuckled softly .


    Andrew , Im surprised you had the guts to show up .


    Didnt you hear ? Even amateurs know gemstone cutting is a risky game .


    Are you sure youre ready to take the plunge , or would you rather think it over ? Christina frowned , worry flickering in her eyes .


    Andrews sudden arrival felt ill timed and reckless .


    Could he not see that Aspen was at the top of her game ? Challenging her now seemed like a foolish move .


    Andrew met Aspens gaze calmly .


    Lets not kid ourselves , Aspen.


    Youve put on this big show just to bait ine intopeting with you .


    And now , you want to talk about risk ? Thats a little hypocritical , dont you think ? Aspens smile turned icy .


    Youre right 1 do want to see what youve got .


    Just say it , Mr.


    Lloyd .


    Are you in , or are you out ? She emphasized his name mockingly , drawing attention to the weight of her challenge The crowd caught the sharp edge in her tone .


    Aspen was not merely inviting Andrew topete ; she was openly taunting him .


    At that moment , Elsie spoke up .


    Mr.


    Lloyd , you dont need to do this .


    Gemstone cutting is for everyone theres no rule saying you have topete against Ms.


    Stevens .