Antiquarian s Precious Find

Chapter One

"Wow, look at this! A Gucci bag, Gucci shoes, and a top Louis Vuitton red gown. This must have cost a fortune!"

"Oh, this is just part of my wardrobe. No need to be so dramatic. Besides, you have to see the Gucci 2023 bag. I'd sell my heart to get that."

"Haha, Precious, you're a fashion enthusiast."

"Queen, you know in our line of business, we have to look extravagant."

"Precious, you're right, but I can't keep up with your standards."

Some guys were praising Precious, admiring her looks. She maintained a composed demeanor, almost resembling a goddess, while Queen, her best friend and business partner, remained unfazed by the attention. They'd been friends since childhood, attending the same primary and secondary schools before studying fashion together at university. Queen specialized in designing bags and shoes, while Precious focused on clothes. Their shared dream was to own a fashion house.

At the shop, Esther was steaming clothes, looking serious. Precious walked straight up to her, wearing a serious expression as she eyed Esther's designer shoes.

"Esther, you must be quite well-off to wear new designer shoes to work. By the way, about the internship fee you promised me, I hope you haven't forgotten."

A slight smile formed on Precious' face. Esther finally glanced up, meeting Precious' gaze fixed on her new shoes. Esther was used to Precious teasing her like that. Laughing, she said, "Precious, if you hadn't turned down the gift from Raphael who brought these yesterday, how could I flaunt designer shoes? You've got to keep doing this. Also, considering I've finished steaming the clothes, shouldn't I be expecting some form of appreciation from you?"

She looked at Esther with a caring expression and said, "What are friends for?"

Not one for words, Queen politely greeted Esther and hurried into her office.

"Esther, what brings you here? I doubt it's to help me," Precious remarked.

"Pre, tomorrow is my brother's birthday party. He asked me to invite you. He's a great guy, good-looking and smart. He'd do anything for you."

Precious seemed uninterested and replied, "Why don't you date him yourself?"

"Precious, please come! It'll be dull without you. Plus, you'll get to meet Grandma. She returned from London last week, asking about you. Don't tell me you don't miss her."

"Grandma's back?" Precious' face lit up. "I miss her? It's been so long. How is she? Does she remember me?"

"Hey, Precious, calm down. Come and see for yourself."