I Refuse to Be Your Second Choice novel Chapter 9

As Alexander’s gaze fell on her, Natalie’s heart hammered against her ribs. She subtly shifted her body, turning slightly away. Thankfully, several people stood between them, likely obscuring his view.

Taking a calming breath, she began.

“Please, don’t worry. It’s a common misconception that all meteorites are highly radioactive. While they do have some radiation, it’s a minuscule amount—less than what you’d find in a single banana. Are any of you afraid of eating bananas?”

The comparison was amusing and drew a ripple of laughter from the crowd, easing the tension in the air.

“Still, it just looks like a dull gray rock. What’s the value in collecting it?” Camila White chimed in, her tone carrying a subtle hint of challenge.

“Yeah, I’d rather buy a diamond necklace,” someone else added in agreement.

“Honestly, I’ve never seen a meteorite at an auction before.”

“And I don’t know any collectors who are into them.”

Camila, seeing that the others shared her sentiment, looked rather pleased with herself.

Natalie glanced at her, keenly aware of Alexander’s probing gaze still fixed on her. She quickly looked away, turning her attention back to the meteorite slice in the display case.

“Collectors typically seek items for their artistic or historical value. A diamond necklace, while beautiful and expensive, isn’t particularly rare. A meteorite, however, is entirely different. It comes from the vastness of outer space. Each one carries a piece of the cosmos, making it utterly unique.”

She paused, letting the idea sink in. “We all know the stars in the sky are celestial bodies. Can any of us pluck one from the heavens?”

“We often hear lovers promise to pluck the stars from the sky for each other. Has anyone ever succeeded?” Natalie smiled. “But if you were to win this meteorite at auction and give it to the one you love, telling them it’s a star you brought down just for them… isn’t that the ultimate romantic gesture?”

Back at the villa, Natalie immediately changed out of her suit and threw it in a trash can far from the house. She had no idea if Alexander had recognized her, but she couldn’t risk him finding any proof.

She never expected him to show up at the auction preview. He had returned from his trip and gone straight to Camila without even stopping at home.

An icy chill seeped into her heart. She caught herself feeling hurt again and muttered, “This isn’t the first time he hasn’t come home. Besides, you’ve already decided on a divorce. You’re leaving in a month. What’s there to be sad about? Get a grip.”

After her pep talk, she gave herself a small thumbs-up.

“Are you possessed?”

Alexander’s voice suddenly came from behind her. Natalie jumped, nearly collapsing in fright.