In the Lap of Luxury by Unsweetened Chestnuts

The last item up for auction was an ancient poetry book, with a starting bid of two million dollars.

Grace jokingly messaged Xander. "This item has great research value. I was originally reluctant to bring it out. Are you interested in it, Mr. Fulton?" Xander's slender fingers glided across his phone. "Let's end this year on a high note."

Upon receiving this message, Grace heard Hazel's bid from behind. "Three million dollars."

Since Xander was supporting his girlfriend, most bidders didn't dare compete with him. At most, they only raised the price slightly.

Matthew was among them, bidding up to six million dollars before backing down.

The auctioneer announced, "Mr. Fulton bids 6.5 million dollars, going once, going twice—"

"7.5 million."

A crisp, young voice that hadn't been heard all evening rang out from the corner. At once, all eyes turned to look.

A man sat in an inconspicuous spot. His profile cast a slight shadow under the light, exuding a debonair charm.

Hazel whispered, "It's Jake."

Naturally, Xander had noticed too. Jake was focused on the stage and the front row.

Grace's heart was in turmoil. She hadn't expected Jake to stir up trouble like this. She immediately looked toward Xander and shook her head.

Xander understood what she meant.

order, Hazel continued bidding,

"8.5 million dollars."

"Nine million dollaes."

"9.5 million dollars."

incrementing the bid

the auctioneer's voice, the only other voices in the entire venue belonged to Hazel and Jakes, who were bidding against each other, making the

message but

bid had already

Fulton bids 13 million dollars. Does the gentleman over there have a higher

didn't know Jake's name;

paddle. "15

"18 million dollars."

insane. Grace's heart was pounding

the item did indeed have

and exceeded

had turned into

scope

competition between the brothers.

"20 million dollars."

Upon receiving the answer, she took a sharp breath before raising her paddle.

of the wrangling. He directly increased the bid