Shattered Vows: Call Me Auntie Now novel Chapter 74

Tara let out a soft gasp. "Wow, Quinn. That is gorgeous. If you win it, you'd look absolutely stunning in it!"

Quinn's eyes lit up, followed by a wave of nostalgia. The design felt incredibly familiar, like something she had seen in her late mother's sketchbooks.

"I'm sure many of you have recognized the distinct, masterful style of this piece."

The host smiled and gestured toward the front row.

"This one-of-a-kind gown was crafted by none other than our nation's top haute couture designer—Ms. Lillian Quincy!"

All eyes immediately shifted to Lillian.

She stood up gracefully, exuding a refined elegance, and offered the room a warm, modest smile.

"I created The Ethereal Sonnet in my early years, alongside my senior colleague, before I made a name for myself. It holds our original passion for design. I've kept it in my private collection ever since, and it has never been shown to the public until today."

"All proceeds from this sale will go directly to children's charities."

Thunderous applause erupted across the hall.

Quinn looked from the dress to Lillian, her respect for the designer deepening.

As the applause faded, the auction officially began, with the starting bid set at fifty thousand dollars.

Vivienne stared at the gown, her eyes shining with intense desire.

"Dante, Ms. Quincy's work is absolutely breathtaking. I really love it!"

Wearing such an exquisite piece would undoubtedly make her the center of attention.

Plus, winning Lillian's personal gown would leave a lasting impression on the famous designer—a win-win situation.

Just as Vivienne was turning on her charm, a cool, calm voice rang out.

"Sixty thousand."

Quinn raised her paddle, her movement sharp and decisive.

She wanted to connect with Lillian, but more importantly, she genuinely loved the dress.

An early work by Lillian held massive significance in the fashion world, and Quinn was determined to take it home.

She looked at him, completely moved. "Thank you so much, Dante. You're too good to me."

She didn't realize that Dante's dark eyes were locked on the seats diagonally in front of them, completely deaf to her praises.

From that moment, the fierce bidding war began.

Every time Quinn raised her paddle, Dante's voice followed a second later, firmly raising the stakes without giving an inch.

One hundred eighty thousand. Two hundred thousand. Two hundred thirty thousand. Two hundred fifty thousand. Two hundred eighty thousand.

The price skyrocketed far past the gown's actual value, leaving even Lillian slightly taken aback.

After several rounds, Quinn furrowed her brows.

The same man who had cornered her outside Lunas Crest yesterday begging for a second chance was now relentlessly outbidding her for his precious sweetheart.

Tara couldn't contain her rage, muttering furiously under her breath. "That bastard is out of his mind!"

"He's just throwing money around to kiss up to that two-faced snake and piss us off. It's disgusting!"