Adrian swiveled his head around with a grimace on his face. "Just a bit of a tummy ache. I don't want to hold up Mom's business. Hey, Mom, let big brother come with me. I know where the restroom is."
Baber, being the obliging older brother, enthusiastically hopped off his chair. "Mom, I'll take him to the loo. I promise we won't wander off. We'll come back right after."
Despite having the reliable Baber accompanying him, Ellinor could not possibly let the two youngsters wander off by themselves.
So she turned to Quinton, who was standing by. "I can't exactly go into the men's restroom. Quinton, could you help me keep an eye on them?"
Quinton nodded in agreement without any hesitation. "Of course, Ms. Mendoza."
Quinton led Baber and Adrian to the restroom. Soon after they left, the auction house manager arrived with a slew of imported snacks and dairy beverages, delivered by a handful of waitresses.
Balfour, seemingly nonchalant, casually inquired. "Who's upstairs today?"
Upon hearing Balfour's question, the auction house manager's smile froze. He had a look of discomfort on his face. "Er... that's a matter of client confidentiality. I'm afraid I can't disclose that. Please understand, Mr. Howard."
Balfour didn't press on. He waved his hand, signaling the manager to have his staff put down the things and leave, not wanting them to disturb him any longer.
The waitresses were eyeing him with undisguised admiration, as if they wished they could undress him with their eyes.
It was quite annoying.
The manager, realizing the situation, quickly ushered his staff out of the room, thoughtfully closing the door behind them.
...
Meanwhile, Tristan had entered the restroom with Baber, while Quinton, who had led them there, stood guard at the door as if he were worried they might get lost.
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