Sophia's hand trembled slightly as she clutched her phone.

Ethan's deep, gentle voice on the other end twisted like a knife in her heart.

"Sophia, I love you more than you could ever imagine."

Each word felt like a dull blade carving into her chest.

She bit her lip, tears welling in her eyes.

She had resolved to let go, yet his vulnerable tone melted her resolve.

"You must be busy. I should sleep," she said hurriedly, hanging up before her heart could waver further.

The next morning, Sophia descended the stairs with dark circles under her eyes.

Frederick glanced up from his newspaper at the breakfast table, chuckling knowingly. "Ah, youth."

"Please don't tease me, Frederick."

"There's a private auction tonight. Care to join me? Might lift your spirits."

Her eyes brightened. "What level?"

"A gathering of elite collectors. Rumor has it there are some extraordinary treasures."

As night fell, the auction hall glittered under brilliant lights.

Following Frederick inside, Sophia was immediately captivated by the dazzling array of items.

"Is that... a Tang Dynasty tri-colored Luohan statue?" Her eyes widened.

Frederick nodded. "All pieces from back home."

The auction commenced with bids flying rapidly.

"Two hundred thirty million! Sold!"

"Three hundred fifty million! Sold!"

Sophia watched, stunned by the overseas collectors' staggering wealth.

When the blue-and-white dragon vase appeared, her breath caught.

"Opening bid at six million!"

Without hesitation, she raised her paddle. "Twenty million!"

The room erupted in murmurs.

"Sold!" The auctioneer's gavel fell emphatically.

Afterward, Sophia cradled the vase lovingly.

"Why such an extravagant purchase, young lady?" an elderly gentleman inquired.

Her fingers traced the intricate design. "This bears the three-eyed dragon personally painted by the Kangxi Emperor."

She recounted its history with such passion that the listeners were spellbound.

"Fifty million!" someone shouted.

"Eighty million!"

The offers soared.

Finally, Richard spoke. "One hundred million. That dragon's aura is too potent for you, my dear."

Sophia smiled serenely. "Sold."

She turned to Frederick with a playful wink. "Now we've secured the restoration funds."

Frederick laughed heartily. "Sharp as ever, my girl!"

As she caressed the vase, Sophia thought: Some treasures, like this dragon vase, must be released—no matter their worth.