Chapter 366
Zachary led Sarah through a narrow alley. The high brick walls cast long shadows, and ornate
Victorian-style eaves loomed overhead. The cobblestone path beneath their feet felt cool, and wild
poppies bloomed stubbornly in the corners where wall met ground.
At the end of the path, Zachary pushed open a weathered wooden gate and led Sarah inside. The
overgrown grass-lined path meandered through the garden, stirring a sense of familiarity within
her. The backyard was well-maintained, with a majestic oak tree standing sentinel in the western
corner.
As they entered the main building through the backyard, Sarah's eyes widened in recognition.
Heritage House?
Heritage House was a prestigious antique shop, renowned for its collection spanning from medieval
artifacts to early 20th-century pieces. However, given the unique nature of antiques, most displayed
items were museum-quality replicas. The originals, privately owned by collectors, were only
available for sale when their owners chose to part with them. Interested buyers needed to contact
the collectors directly to negotiate.
Sarah couldn't help but wonder about Zachary's intentions. "Why are we here?" she asked softly.
Zachary responded in equally hushed tones, "The Wilson family has their sights set on Mr. Anderson's property."
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt"You mean Crystal Bay?" Sarah's eyes lit up with interest.
"Exactly."
Crystal Bay, an island off the Atlantic coast, was a pristine piece of land embraced by the ocean. For years, it had
been under the ownership of Mr. Anderson, the CEO of Meridian Group. Previously overlooked by developers, the
island had recently caught attention after the government announced new shipping routes nearby.
To boost the coastal region's tourism industry, the local tourism board had rolled out attractive incentives.
Developing Crystal Bay into a luxury resort island would undoubtedly yield substantial profits. Every developer
along the coast had their eyes on this property, and Victoria was no exception.
Sarah glanced at Zachary with a mix of caution and curiosity. "What does Heritage House have to do with Crystal
Bay?" she asked.
"Everyone's been trying to meet with Mr. Anderson lately, but few have succeeded. His birthday is coming up
soon-it's a rare opportunity. He's an avid antique collector, and Vivian has been searching the market for
something special," Zachary explained with a subtle smile.
Sarah relaxed slightly. "So, you want my family to compete with the Wilsons?" "Melvin has been researching this
property for a while now," Zachary added. "You're suggesting | buy an antique here as a gift for Mr. Anderson?"
Zachary nodded. "Mr. Anderson is deeply spiritual and has a particular fondness for vintage rosaries."
Sarah's gaze wandered over the various antiques displayed throughout Heritage House as she began searching
for a suitable rosary.
The atmosphere grew still, and dark clouds swept in from the east, blotting out the sunlight and casting shadows
across the grounds.
Heritage House was a treasure trove, with over twenty beautifully carved mahogany display cases lining its
walls. Each compartment showcased a unique artifact, each piece telling its own story of history and value.
The moment Zachary entered, the proprietor, Mr. Bennett, hurried forward to greet him. "Mr.
Reynolds, what a pleasure! We've just received a fascinating new collection. Would you care to see
it?"
Sarah followed closely as they were led into a private viewing room. Like the main area, this space
featured rows of elegant mahogany cases, each holding something extraordinary. The air carried
the subtle fragrance of aged wood and antiquity.
"Do you have anything with religious significance?" Zachary asked casually, his tone measured.
Mr. Bennett's eyes lit up. "As it happens, religious artifacts have been quite popular lately. We sold
a remarkable medieval cross just days ago."
Lowering his voice conspiratorially, he continued, "Though | must say, most items on display are
merely premium pieces. You understand, of course-truly exceptional antiques are far too precious
for casual display. We keep our finest pieces in our private gallery upstairs, reserved for trusted
clients of particular means. It's not often we welcsomeone of your caliber, Mr. Reynolds."
Sarah silently acknowledged the truth in his words. Genuinely rare treasures were seldom displayed
openly. Only a select few had the resources to acquire them— and Zachary clearly belonged to that
exclusive circle.
"Show us," Zachary said simply, his quiet authority evident.