Trouble in Paradise by Three Way

An auction naturally features more than one item. At first, there were some insignificant small plots of land with very low starting prices, serving as a warm-up.

The attendees showed little interest, though some took the opportunity to bid on the cheap properties.

Before the main event began, Beth leaned over to me. "Ms. Jones, did you call Mr. Hawk?"

I shook my head.

"In that case, we'll each rely on our abilities when the time comes."

"Alright."

This auction had been arranged at the last minute. Nicholas had no idea that my family's land would be included today. Since that was the case, I decided not to bother him.

I didn't know how much funding Nicholas had approved for Beth, but it certainly wouldn't match what I had prepared. However, this situation inadvertently benefited Nelson and Claudia.

Still, considering that these two were likely the type to earn money but not live long enough to spend it, I found some peace of mind.

elaborate introduction to the land. When he finished, the starting price was set at a mere

eager to bid.

and his haggard appearance earlier made people hesitant to engage in large transactions with

reluctantly raised her paddle.

crowd erupted in laughter at the small increment, and the auctioneer on stage chuckled awkwardly, sarcastically implying

she sneered internally. Having spent years by Nicholas' side, she had

it weren't for the minimum bid increment, I'd have

driving the price up in small steps

was visibly frustrated but could do

and, after bidding 2.61 million, made a gesture indicating she

there for entertainment. The only true contenders for the land were likely just Beth and me. Each time I placed

pounding his chest in frustration, unsure of who was causing trouble, but he was desperate

the auction out

phone began buzzing incessantly, notifications popping

to bid on something