Chapter 110
“Does Ariana think I don’t know how much money she has Brian said coldly. “Keep raising the bid.”
“Yes, sir.
“90 million!”
As Emily lifted the paddle, the room erupted in inurmurs of disbelief. This was nearly ten times the necklace’s actual worth!
Ariana turned to Victor. “You planted this, didn’t you?”
Victor knew from the start that Brian wouldn’t let this necklace go. By pitting Ariana against Brian, Victor had set the stage for this bidding war. After Victor had humiliated Evelyn earlier, Brian’s pride was already bruised. There was no way he would back down now, not with his dignity on the line.
“Don’t forget what you promised me,” Victor said lazily, leaning back in his chair. “I want that necklace, no matter what.”
“You.”
Victor was deliberately cornering her, leaving her no way out. Fine. If he wanted to play, then she would play along.
“100 million!” Gasps rippled through the room as Ariana called out the staggering figure.
It was only the beginning of the auction! Isn’t Ms. Torrey a little too reckless?
“150 million.”
. Before either Brian or Ariana could respond, a new voice cut through the air. The crowd was stunned as they
turned and saw William, who had arrived late, calmly placing the bid.
“Mr. Lodge. This price is outrageous. If Mrs. Lodge Senior finds out, she won’t be pleased. And the necklace is meant for Ms. Granger…” Emily reminded Brian.
With William’s intervention, Brian hesitated. Finally, he decided not to continue the bidding. Relieved by William’s appearance, Ariana leaned back in her chair, feeling a wave of relief wash over her.
The auctioneer’s voice rang out. “150 million, going once! Going twice! Going three times! Sold!“”
Victor turned to Ariana, expressionless. “I told you I wanted that necklace.”
“That necklace is already yours, Mr. Smith,” Ariana sald calmly, leaning back on her chair. “You only said you wanted the necklace, but you never specified how I was supposed to get it for you.”
“Oh?” Victor’s gaze flicked to William, who raised a glass of champagne in Ariana’s direction.
Ariana lifted her own glass in response, offering a small toast. Victor’s lips curved into a faint smile. “You never cease to surprise me.”
Clearly, she had a connection to William as well. Ariana was proving to be more resourceful than he had anticipated
During the intermission, Brian noticed Ariana rising from her seat and immediately stood as well.
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