Chapter 115

Chapter 115:
“Is something happening here? Doesn’t bidder number 823 realize who she’s up against? She’s really holding her ground,” one guest remarked, voice laced with disbelief.
“There’s no way she’s in the dark. Serena arrived tonight with Charles, and the Evans Group is running the show. Charles must know everything that’s going on,” another person commented, their curiosity piqued.
“You’re right, so what are they trying to pull?” someone else asked, more confused than ever.
“Honestly, it’s anybody’s guess. Brandon might not be bidding himself, but his date is the one raising the paddle. It’s almost like number 823 is challenging Brandon head-on,” another whispered.
“The tanzanite is only valued at a million. If you ask me, spending anything above 1.2 million just isn’t smart. But to jump to one and a half million? There’s got to be more to this,” one observer speculated.
“I couldn’t tell you. Do you think Brandon will push the price even higher?” someone else chimed in.
“If Brandon was placing the bids himself, I’d expect him to do it for the sake of his pride. But this time, it’s Vivian stepping in, so who knows what she’ll do?” came the response, tinged with uncertainty.
“Doesn’t Brandon worry about getting embarrassed in front of everyone?” another person asked.
“You might not realize it, but he wins either way. If he keeps fighting for it, it proves he’s determined. If he lets the other bidder take it, he can always say she needed it more. It makes him look generous,” one guest explained, a knowing smile playing on their lips.
“Wait, is that really how it works?” someone else asked, sounding impressed.
“Why not? Everyone in this room already knows Brandon’s wealthy enough to go the distance. If he backs off, no one will think he lacks the money. They’ll just assume he’s showing class,” came the casual reply. This update is available on
“Still, it feels a little awkward. He can’t even manage to win a tanzanite worth a million?” someone else questioned, slightly incredulous.
“Yeah, but if he really wants to, he could always just buy it later and give it as a gift. That takes care of everything,” came the final answer, accompanied by a nod of approval.
“Now that’s clever. I have to say, I’m impressed,” someone whispered, as they all kept their attention focused on the second floor, their eyes never leaving the drama unfolding before them.
Upstairs, every guest sat perfectly still, outwardly composed, but the tension in the air was so thick it seemed to hang in the room like a heavy fog.
Millie sent Charles a concerned glance. “Is this going to cause problems for you?”
Charles gave her a reassuring smile. “You’re the one bidding, using your own paddle. That has nothing to do with me.”
A smile returned to Millie’s face as she glanced down at the table. On it rested two paddles, one meant for Serena and the other for Charles. Both had received invitations, so each had their own bidding number. Still, going up against Brandon so openly could very well have consequences.
Charles noticed her unease. “There’s nothing to be afraid of,” he said, attempting to reassure her. “I can handle whatever comes out of this.” He nudged her lightly. “Bid however you feel. I’ll cover anything you need.”
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