He Cheated I Rose Making Him Regret Everything (Chloe and Arthur) novel Chapter 140

“Eighteen million,” Landon announced smoothly, raising the bid by three million without a hint of hesitation.

His calm, authoritative voice sliced through the buzzing auction hall, instantly silencing the crowd. The spotlight shifted away from the Eldermaran businessman who had just offered fifteen million, now settling fully on Landon.

All eyes fixed on him. With a composed and graceful smile, Landon spoke, “This jade complements our lead designer, Ms. Lewis, perfectly.”

At once, Chloe became the center of everyone’s attention. Her pale green gown caught the light, shimmering delicately, its hue mirroring the exquisite jade displayed before them.

Suddenly, the room understood Landon’s reasoning. It wasn’t merely about matching colors—the jade’s mysterious allure resonated with Chloe’s own enigmatic presence.

From the moment she had entered, Chloe had exuded an aura of refined elegance mixed with an elusive mystique, much like the legendary jade itself. People found themselves drawn to her, their gazes lingering longer than expected.

Yet, there was something distant, almost untouchable about her—an icy coolness that set her apart from the ordinary.

Landon’s brief explanation had made his intention clear. The Eldermaran businessman who had previously bid simply smiled, bowing out with a gracious nod.

He had no intention of continuing the contest, clearly conceding to Landon’s claim.

“Eighteen million, going once!” the auctioneer announced brightly, raising her gavel, ready to close the bidding.

Still composed, Landon turned his eyes to Chloe. “Ms. Lewis, you crafted the Four Seasons collection for us, and everyone is eagerly awaiting its debut. Consider this jade a gift from us to you. Beautiful treasures deserve to be with beautiful people.”

Chloe returned a gentle smile but chose to remain silent. She had planned to bid herself, yet Landon’s intervention had worked flawlessly. If acquiring the jade could be this effortless, it was an ideal outcome.

“Eighteen million, going twice!” The auctioneer’s voice echoed throughout the hall as she slowly lifted the gavel.

The room remained utterly silent. No other bids came forward. It seemed the Sleep-Soothing Jade would soon belong to Landon.

“Mommy, your boss is amazing! I’ll protect their systems from now on. Getting the Sleep-Soothing Jade was so easy. We should celebrate later!” Robert’s cheerful voice crackled through Chloe’s earpiece.

“My treat!” Oralia chimed in enthusiastically.

Hearing their excitement, Chloe’s smile broadened. If the Sleep-Soothing Jade could come to her without complications, nothing could be more perfect.

When Arthur and the others had arrived earlier, she had worried the bidding might spiral out of control, causing unnecessary trouble.

“Beautiful treasures belong with beautiful people,” Anthony declared, his voice steady and sincere. “Ms. Lewis is stunning and deserves only the finest. Ms. Lewis, I hope this small gesture brings a smile to your face and helps you forget any troubles.”

His eyes sparkled as they rested on Chloe, filled with a warmth that caught many by surprise.

Wait, what was going on here?

Anthony was well-known for his playboy reputation. Did he share some history with Chloe?

To publicly challenge Landon just to see Chloe smile—there had to be deeper currents beneath this gesture.

Landon clicked his tongue softly, caught off guard by Anthony’s interference. He shot a quick glance toward Eugene, and in that silent exchange, Landon understood the path forward.

“My apologies, Mr. Ruiz, but as I said, this is our company’s way of honoring Ms. Lewis.” With a raised hand, Landon increased the bid to twenty-two million.

The auction hall descended into an even heavier silence.

Anthony leaned back casually, a confident smile playing on his lips. “Mr. Voss, I hope you’ll allow me this chance to impress Ms. Lewis.” Then, without hesitation, he called out, “Twenty-three million.”