Maria claimed she could mend the Invincible Piano?

Such confidence left him dumbfounded. Her tone was casual as if she spoke of an ordinary matter.

“In reality, the cost of restoring the Invincible Piano is significantly reduced when in the hands of a highly skilled weapon refiner," Maria elaborated,

Jeff managed an awkward smile.

"You're correct. A seventh-grade weapon refiner is the minimal requirement for fixing the Invincible Piano, With eighth or ninth-grade refiners, the restoration expenses would likely fall below 1,5 billion dollars

However, the world lacked eighth or ninth-grade weapon refiners.

And if they did exist, the cost to hire such masters was astronomical. Or even vast reserves of immeasurable ancient martial resources?

Employing a top-tier weapon refiner could potentially outweigh the piano's valuation.

Lost in thought, Jeff was interrupted by a sardonic voice from behind.

“Maria, what's your true motive in showing such concern for Mr. Cooper? Need I remind you that you already have a boyfriend named Anthony Wilson?" The voice belonged to Barbara.

Yet, her utterance caused an initial shift in Jeff's and Alena’s expressions.

“Miss Herrera, a modicum of respect, please!" Jeff's tone dropped to a murmur.

Indeed, there was no entanglement between him and Maria. Nonetheless, Barbara's statement would unquestionably stir waves affecting Maria, Jeff, and Alena alike.

Even so, Jeff couldn't help but feel intrigued. Why had Maria chosen to extend her aid tonight?

To bid fifty million dollars for the Invincible Piano was no trivial matter, Given that none of the other present guests dared venture into the bidding, Maria's move bore significance.

“Interesting.

Receiving Jeff's rebuke, Barbara merely sneered. Her gaze remained fixed on Maria, seemingly willing her to provide a logical explanation to all. Otherwise, it would seem that Maria harbored a certain sentiment toward Jeff.

Maria met Barbara's gaze, her smile laced with a hint of mockery.

“I just made eight hundred million dollars. Why not lend my hand to an old friend?"

To help an old friend of hers?

It was not just Barbara who was stunned by this answer, but also Jeff and Alena.

Alena glanced at Jeff in confusion and asked, Jeff shook his head firmly.

“No, I don't know her." He could say for certain that he had never met Maria before because a woman like her was unforgettable. If the two of them had indeed crossed paths in the past, he would definitely remember her. 0 you know each other?"

Judging from Jeff's furrowed eyebrows, Barbara could tell that something did not add up.