Chapter: 211
As the price climbed higher, many bidders dropped out.
Derek boldly bid, "12.8 million."
Norah spun around, shocked at hearing Derek's voice. Was Derek out of his mind? He wanted to spend over ten million on a diamond brooch?
Did he ever consider the financial state of the Carter family? Could they afford such extravagance?
Norah couldn't help but recall Derek's reluctance to share financial resources with her and even demanding a divorce without any settlement. She had assumed the Carter family was nearly bankrupt.
Yet here he was, ready to splurge roughly ten million on a diamond brooch for Madeline!
Catching Norah's shocked look, Sean could tell she recognized Derek's voice. He frowned.
With a casual gesture, Sean lifted his bidding paddle and murmured, “15 million."
The bid jumped by almost 3 million, causing Derek, who was about to bid, to halt in surprise. Sean was bidding? For whom might Sean want this brooch?
Norah turned to Sean, puzzled. She wondered whether he aimed to secure the brooch for Susanna. Or perhaps for his mother? Given the rarity of such a large, flawless diamond, it made sense he'd be interested.
Norah wasn't much for jewelry herself. She supported her chin with her hand, admiring the diamond brooch sparkle on display. Indeed, it was a piece any woman might desire.
"Do you like it?" Kason asked.
Without waiting for Norah's response, Kason confidently bid, saying, "16 million."
Norah's eyes went wide. Was Kason serious? She hadn't expressed any interest. What was Kason thinking?
Norah gently tugged at Kason's sleeve, whispering, "I don't actually like it."
Upon witnessing this, Sean kept raising the price, saying, “I'll bid 17 million."
Sean and Kason exchanged a challenging glance.
At that moment, Derek wavered. For him, millions represented a significant amount.
"Derek, I really want that diamond brooch." Madeline, showing understanding, added, “If it's too much, it's okay. You can get me a different diamond some other time."
Madeline gave Derek a playful wink, trying to soften the embarrassment.
Upon hearing the words of the woman he cherished, Derek refused to back down. He lifted the bidding paddle once more. "17.10 million."
The initial bidders threw around millions as if it were nothing, making Derek appear rather frugal.
Norah's intervention stopped Kason from bidding further. However, Sean was determined to acquire the diamond brooch. "18 million." His tone was deep and alluring, his demeanor relaxed yet subtly commanding.
Derek paused, his gaze dropping. Clenching his jaw, he noticed Madeline looking at him eagerly. "18.10 million."