Chapter 779:
However, now she believed she had just misunderstood him. He seemed to be the kind of man who spoke with actions rather than words.
Haven believed she was finally going to get a taste of what it felt like to be the center of attention.
She was sure the Star of the Desert would be hers.
Linsey took a deep breath and turned to Gorman.
At that moment, Gorman lifted his paddle once more and declared in a harsh tone, “$1.1 billion.”
A collective gasp filled the room.
“Look at Mr. Green challenging Mr. Riley for the Star of the Desert!”
“Wow, this just heated up considerably!”
“Mr. Green has the mighty Green Group backing him, making him a formidable contender. He might truly have what it takes to compete for this necklace. After all, he just won the bid for Aurora’s champion design, and Mr. Riley was bidding in that round as well.”
“Actually, Mr. Riley stepped back from that earlier auction not because of a lack of interest, but seemingly, he wasn’t all that committed to winning.”
“He yielded on Aurora’s design due to Ms. Walton’s preferences. If Ms. Walton sets her heart on this necklace, he’ll surely go to great lengths to secure it for her!”
Meanwhile, Linsey was oblivious to the surrounding murmurs. She stared at Gorman, dumbfounded, before snapping out of her daze.
“Have you lost your mind? You can’t casually bid $1.1 billion as if it’s just spare change!” Linsey hissed under her breath.
Gorman’s response was serious as he met her astonished look. “You admire this piece, so I must get it for you.”
Shock and disbelief clouded Linsey’s features as she struggled to grasp his rash generosity.
“I don’t want it!” she exclaimed, her tone desperate. “I’ve told you before, I don’t even like this necklace. Please, don’t continue bidding on it. I won’t take it, even if you win.”
She paused briefly, then averted her eyes. “If you intend to gift it to someone else, that’s your choice. You’re free to spend your money however you see fit.”
Gorman’s expression softened into a melancholy smile as he quietly urged, “Linsey, there’s no one else I’d rather give it to. Regardless of your acceptance, my first task is to secure this necklace.”
He then gazed towards Collin and Haven, his look inscrutable as he pondered their next move.
“Collin is aiming for Haven with his bids, right?” Gorman asked slowly, then turned to Linsey. “Tell me, who would you prefer to win this necklace, me or Collin?”
Linsey shivered as she met Gorman’s seemingly cheerful expression, a sudden fear creeping over her. “You…”
Her voice trailed off as Collin announced his next bid. “$1.3 billion.”
