Esma scrutinized Leonore closely, weighing whether his display of wealth was genuine or mere pretense. Despite his attire not suggesting affluence, his lavish spending hinted otherwise.

"Esma, close your eyes," Leonore murmured, retrieving a small box from his pocket.

Esma feigned shyness, though inwardly unruffled.

Leonore unveiled the box, revealing a necklace adorned with delicate diamonds.

"Esma, will you be my girlfriend?"

The diamond necklace had depleted ...