Filed To Story: Move Aside I'm the Final Boss Book PDF Free (Kingsley & Hannah)
Still as sharp tongued as ever, I see.
Kingsleys eyes narrowed as he recognized the newcomers.
Of all people, it had to be Hannah and Aspen
Talk about a small world, he muttered to himself.
Aspen smiled sweetly and said, Mr. Kelce, back in Bridgefields, you’re considered a legend in the antique world, always sharp with your words.
She glanced around dramatically.
I see that even here in Jayrodale, youve kept your genuine style.
I must say, I admire your consistency.
Orions face lit up with pride
Ah, finally, someone who gets me ! So many think I’m just showing off or looking down on others, but why would I need to pretend at my level? Like you said, this is just who I am straightforward and honest.
I never sugarcoat my words.
Aspens gaze shifted over the crowd before landing on Kingsley, her smile turning icy.
Mr. Kelce, we Bridgefields folk like to let our skills and logic speak for themselves.
However, som people here just can’t seem to respect us, no matter what.
Orion smirked.
Oh ? And whos bold enough to disrespect us? Aspen pointed directly at Kingsley. Its him, Mr. Kelce.
His names Kingsley Baldwin
Ever since I arrived in Jayrodale, he hasnt missed a chance to belittle me.
Orion immediately turned his attention to Kingsley, his look filled with disdain
He mocked, I thought you were talking about someone important, but its just a young pup.
What I deal with is art, history, and fine collectibles.
A kid like this probably can’t even tell a teapot from a soup ladle.
No need to point him out and embarrass yourself, my dear.
Several of Orions followers burst into laughter.
Exactly! Mr. Kelce is a celebrated collector and a giant in the field.
This kid? Hes nothing.
Mr. Kelce came to grace this appraisal event, not to entertain amateurs.
Why bother with a nobody? If this kid crossed Ms. Snees, just let us know and well teach him a lesson.
But talking ues and sophistication? don’t waste Mr. Kelces time its beneath him.
Francescas face turned beet red with anger.
Ms. Snees, you think you can throw your weight around here in Jayrodale just because you’re from Bridgefields? Aspen chuckled lightly, her demeanor calm.
Ms. Aicker, theres no need to get so worked up.
I simply can’t stand people who don’t know the first thing about antiques showing up here.
Its pathetic that he doesnt notice hes completely out of place.
Elsie frowned, visibly displeased.
Ms. Snees, Mr. Baldwin is a guest of the event organizers.
don’t you think your words are going too far? Feigning hurt, Aspen gave an exaggerated bow.
If I upset you, Ms. Santana, I apologize.
But I don’t think I said anything untrue.
Antique appraisal and collecting are refined, academic pursuits
If someone unqualified comes to watch from the sidelines, fine but strutting into the appraisal center ? Its unbearable.
Orion laughed heartily.
Aspen, your sharp tongue is as lively as ever, and I like it
For those who lack talent, theres no need to waste pleasantries. Keep them at arms length.
Hannah, who had been quiet this entire time, sighed to herself
This was a high stakes appraisal event, and Kingsley could have stayed on the sidelines, but no he had to insert himself into the middle of the storm
Did he not realize who attended events like this? They were either people with wealth to spare, hunting for rare pieces to add to their collections, or seasoned experts at the top of their game.
Hannah sighed, glancing at Kingsley with a mix of helplessness and frustration
Aspen, enough already, she said, tugging her cousins arm lightly.
Lets just walk around.
I want to find a couple of good pieces to bring home.
Aspen chuckled, clearly enjoying the attention, and let Hannah pull her away. Sure, Hannah, lets look around, she replied, her voice dripping with smugness.
You know, back in Bridgefields, I was trained by the best since I was a kid.
Ive never been wrong about authenticity in antiques, not even once.
Hannah could not help but admire Aspens confidence.
They were cousins, and Aspen was just a year older.
Yet, she always seemed so composed and capable.
Whether it was her sharp instincts or commanding presence, Aspen had the kind of charm that Hannah found hard to rival, even with her own pride.
Just as the tension seemed to subside, a sharp, mocking voice broke through the hushed crowd.
Two strays from Bridgefields barking away, but now theyre scurrying off with their tails tucked
The more you ignore them, the louder they bark sometimes you just have to put them in their place. The crowd went completely silent.
They could not believe that someone had just called Orion and Aspen dogs.
Orions expression darkened instantly
He glared at Kingsley and growled, Kid, what did your just say? Say it again if youve got the guts! Aspen froze mid step, slowly turning back to face Kingsley, her gaze sharp and ice cold.
I’ll give you one chance, she said, her tone clipped and commanding.
Apologize, get on your knees, and admit you were wrong.
Francesca stammered, nearly burying her face in her hands.
Kingsley, did you really just call them … that? You’re just asking to make enemies! Sensing the gravity of the situation, Elsie whispered urgently, Mr. Baldwin, let me cover for you just leave now.
Someone like Mr. Kelge wont let this go.
Youve crossed the line with that comment
Cedric, on the other hand, seemed oddly energized by the tension: Forget running! Dr. Baldwin, put them in their place already! Clearly, Cedric had been itching for Kingsley to take a stand.
Kingsley stood calmly, his expression unbothered despite the mounting tension
His voice was steady as he replied, I said, two loudmouthed strays from Bridgefields.
Did everyone hear me clearly this time? The crowd erupted into chaos.
Orion rolled up his sleeves, his face flushed with fury.
You arrogant little punk! Talking trash is easy lets see you prove yourself! If you can beat me in appraising antiques, I’ll call you Grandpa right here in front of everyone.
Aspens voice was laced with contempt as she sneered, Kingsley, your petty insults just show what a small man you are.
Mr. Kelce and I were merely trying to offer you some advice, but instead, you lash out like a child throwing a tantrum
She stepped forward, her tone turning icy.
Since you’re so worked up, how about you accept Mr. Kelces challenge? Forget your words show us if youve got any actual skill.
Lets see if you can earn our respect.
One of Orions followers shouted, Hey, Mr. Kelce is graciously lowering himself to challenge you in an appraisal contest, and you don’t even have the guts to agree? Another chimed in, Calling us dogs? Kid, you’re biting off more than you can chew
Words like that will get you into real trouble if you don’t crawl out of this appraisal event on all fours today, I’ll take your last name !A third laughed mockingly, Even Jayrodales antique experts wouldnt dare utter a word against Mr. Kelce, yet here you are, some nobody playing the hero.
Didnt your mom ever teach you that sticking your neck out doesnt make you brave? It makes you reckless, and reckless fools tend to end up regretting it! No one could believe that Kingsley, who was not even part of the antique world, would dare provoke someone as influential as Orion.
Hannah snapped angrily, Kingsley, apologize to Mr. Kelce and Aspen right now! Kingsley replied nonchalantly, Why should I apologize ? Gritting her teeth, Hannah hissed, Cant you see how serious this is? Were just here to watch.
Why are you dragging yourself into their business? Kingsley shrugged and replied, I have no interest in antiques or their petty disputes.
I just can’t stand listening to two barking clowns making fools of themselves.
And when those clowns decide to take a bite out of me, thats where I draw the line.
Hannah was furious at Kingsleys carefree attitude.
Fine! If you’re so determined, I wont try to stop Aspen anymore.
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