Lara opened the gift box as she spoke.

“Wow! !"*

Raymond exclaimed as he laid eyes on the contents of the box.

It was an intricate jade carving piece that depicted three ancient gods. The gods of fortune and prosperity were playing chess, while the god of longevity Looked on in silence.

“Ah, the three gods of abundance! What a magnificent concept! And such artistry, too."

Raymond expressed his admiration without reserve. As the young master of a prominent family, he grew up surrounded by similar pieces of art and Luxury.

He was so delighted by the jade carving piece that he couldn't help but applaud. For one thing, the craftsmanship was truly incredible, and for another, he wanted to help Lara and Jacqueline with their mission today.

"Lara," Raymond said in a purposely Loud voice.

“This must have been designed by a real master, right? There are very few of them in the field of jade carving, and most of them are averse to sell their works. They prefer to conserve their pieces for future generations. How did you ever manage to acquire this beauty?"

“Well, I came here to call on Mr. Wilson, so I couldn't possibly offer him some ordinary trinket. Only Master Vincent Geoffrey's masterpiece can measure up to the standards of this visit, and barely at that."

A self-satisfied smile crept onto Lara's lips as she mentioned the name Vincent.

Vincent was considered as a true master of jade carving. Even the works of the Jade Carving Association's President could not compare to his most basic piece.

Needless to say, Lara was counting on this valuable artifact to help her win Michael's favor.

“This is Vincent's work?" Michael asked.

Sure enough, his interest was piqued.

Although he didn't pick up the jade carving piece from the box, he leaned over to inspect it from different angles.

Maria, too, craned her neck to see the piece. She glanced at it from a few feet away and immediately frowned.

Her expression soon shifted, and she had to purse her Lips to stifle a soft giggle.

Maria had to take a couple of seconds to compose herself. Unfortunately, Lara saw it all.

“Oh... So, it's you, Maria."

She acted as though she had just noticed Maria there, and then proceeded to flash her a wide smile.

“I saw you react to my gift just now. What's wrong?

Are you unable to appreciate the great work?"

“Humph! Does she even know anything about jade carving? Who does she think she is to judge Master Geoffrey's work?"