The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 312

Even as Jasper's adrenaline surged, he knew full well that this jade bracelet had already been driven far past its true value.

The auctioneer's smile was starting to look almost twisted, barely managing to keep from grinning ear to ear with unbridled delight.

After all, their commission was tied directly to the final hammer price of each item. While every piece here started out expensive enough, if bidding stayed close to the reserve price, their cut remained modest. The higher the bids soared above market, the fatter their paycheck. The more reckless the bidders, the happier the auction staff became.

Seeing Jasper hesitate, Stella leaned forward with a gentle, teasing lilt. "Mr. Wilkinson, if you're not going to bid again, does that mean this bracelet is mine?"

The auctioneer, catching on immediately, raised his gavel and called out, "Eight million—do I have any higher offers?"

"Eight million, once."

If Stella hadn't spoken up, Jasper might have stayed calm. But her words lit a fire

in him; his eyes flashed with irritation. Instantly, he lifted his paddle. "Nine million."

Stella offered him a small, knowing smile and didn't bid further.

when none came, he beamed.

froze as he glanced sharply at Stella. Why had

generous than I am,

a sneer. “If you can't afford to play, maybe you shouldn't

bit ruffled. She just

eyes as she pieced things

his tone low and warning. "Jasper, stop

scoffed, "She's provoking me? Who says I can't provoke her right back? Just watch-when the bidding gets high enough, I'll drop

the next round was

for auction was an

Stella raised

twice already, Jasper's lips

She wasn't the only one who could

four. Stella answered with five, and Jasper-without missing a beat-shot up to

as before, Stella stopped