Rebirth Into My Second Chance

Often, the person who falls in love first ends up at a disadvantage.

"80 million."

Someone, not one of the people I'd bribed, upped the ante by ten million right on top of Kate's bid. I glanced around, trying to spot any of my plants.

For the items leading up to Kate's, I'd paid off a few bidders to drive up the prices, making her dig deeper into her pockets.

"Claude," she began, a hint of worry in her voice, "they're driving up the price, I..."

"100 million." Claude didn't respond directly, but his actions spoke volumes. He was willing to drop a cool hundred million for Kate, for that particular item. But then, someone from the VIP lounge upstairs threw down a bombshell bid of 200 million.

A collective gasp swept through the crowd.

"Could it be that person from the Hilton clan?"

I looked up, questioning. The Hilton clan? Max had just left; could there really be another player from the Hilton powerhouse?

"Kate, if you like the design, we can find another one."

Claude didn't continue the bidding war. Was he really that wary of the Hilton clan's heavyweight?

Was he that intimidated by his uncle?

I really like it. Is it because the black card is with Claire? Can you talk to Claire and get it back to buy this crown? You promised me

Claude glanced my way.

out the black card, gesturing that I

Kate. "The black card is Claire's now. As for the crown, it seems my uncle is set on having it. I have no reason to compete

eventually managing a compliant, "Okay, I've already got a lot today.

crown went

which

the auction wrapped up, I left the venue, feeling somewhat lost. This version of Claude was an

thwarting my plans for

everything had turned sour

I managed a weak smile and entered my

Who was Max, really?

Did Claude love me?

life was filled

Ding-dong-

The doorbell rang.

Claude, probably upset

delivery person from the auction house, handing over the items

bids made by Kate without consulting

for you. He