Magic 67

Chapter 67 

At some point, Jonah had drifted closer and asked, “That little drama in the jewelry store- wasn’t that your doing?” 

Valerie glanced at him. “And what makes you say that?” 

His eyes lingered on the pen in her hand. “I saw the way you flicked that pen–sharp, precise, and clean. One strike, dead on. Tell me–does that academy that only takes five to eight–year- olds also teach how to handle weapons?” 

“In the countryside,” Valerie replied dryly, “I used to shoot squirrels with a slingshot.” 

The answer made Jonah laugh. “It sounds like your childhood was more exciting than most.” 

“Small towns have more grit than big cities ever will,” she said. 

By the time they reached the top floor, Valerie pulled off her mask. 

The moment Jonah caught sight of her face, his heart stumbled. He hadn’t imagined such beauty could exist in this world. 

No wonder Noah, usually indifferent to women, had been ready to storm in and flatten those people when Valerie was being bullied. 

After exchanging greetings with the staff, Noah came straight to her side. “Pick a stone, and tell me which one. I’ll pay for it.” 

Valerie skimmed the price tags. The cheap ones ran in the thousands, while the expensive ones ran into the millions. “That’s a bill I couldn’t possibly let you foot.” 

“Don’t be so polite with me,” Noah said. “You healed my arm, so paying you back is the least I 

can do.” 

And it was true. Ever since Valerie had pressed down on his shoulder that day, the injury that had tormented him for three years had vanished. 

He’d seen renowned chiropractors before, but none had helped. He thought he’d carry the pain for life, until Valerie fixed it in one move. 

Jonah caught the implication. “So, Ms. Collins knows medicine, too?” 

“She worked a summer job at a rehab clinic. She picked up some pretty sharp techniques there. 

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Valerie had nothing to add. The words were hers, and she couldn’t deny it. 

Jonah’s interest in her only deepened. “Then, I have a small favor to ask.” 

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“Let’s hear it,” Valerie said. 

“There are too many stones to sort through—I could use your eyes, Ms. Collins. Point to any one you like. I’ll have the cutter work on it on the spot. 

“If it turns into a fine piece, I’ll give you one of the stones for free. If it doesn’t, I’ll cover the entire cost myself.” 

“That’s not a bad idea,” Noah chimed in. “Val, why don’t you do the same for me? Don’t worry -whatever the results, you won’t pay a thing. Playing with stones is all about the gamble and the thrill.” 

Valerie was genuinely surprised. “You two aren’t joking?” 

Jonah jerked his chin toward Noah. “I don’t know about him, but I’m serious.” 

Noah shot him a glare. “What, do you think I’m that cheap? It’s just a few rocks. I’m not about to pinch pennies over this. Go ahead, Val. Pick whatever you like. No pressure.” 

Their sincerity left her little room to refuse. 

“If it’s a thrill you want,” Valerie said, “then let me set the rules.” 

Both men gestured for her to continue. 

Valerie saw no reason to be polite. “There are three of us. I’ll use this pen to blind–pick three stones. Once they’re chosen, you two get first pick. Whatever’s left is mine.” 

She twirled the pen between her fingers, letting it spin lightly in the air before holding it up. ” I’ll spin it three times. Whichever the tip lands on, that’s the stone we take.” 

Noah and Jonah exchanged a glance and answered in unison, “No objections.” 

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Chapter 68