Chapter: 629
Recently, Caden had been quite daring, often spotted with Alicia.
Though they hadn't declared their relationship, they were frequently seen together, just the two of them. Naturally, they appeared to be a perfect pair, which inevitably led to rumors.
The atmosphere in the room was charged with anticipation, gossip, and curiosity.
Alicia sat upright and calmly declared, "41 million dollars."
Caden offered a smile.
She desired the jewelry but hesitated to spend so much. She held her position firmly, though it was partly a show of defiance.
He deliberately said, "5Q million dollars."
At that, Monica grew anxious.
She clung to Alicia's arm, her fear palpable. "We should stop. The gemstone isn't even worth 5 million dollars. Bidding 50 million is a massive loss."
Alicia straightened her posture.
She was determined not to be outdone by Caden.
She gave Monica a reassuring pat.
"51 million dollars," she said, keeping up with the bids.
Caden then bid, saying, "60 million dollars."
Someone couldn't resist murmuring, "Did Ms. Bennett upset Mr. Ward?"
"But Mr. Ward is smiling. Does he smile when he's upset?" another whispered. “Could this be their way of flirting?"
"Who flirts by competing with a woman? Shouldn't he be spoiling her?"
"You never can tell with Mr. Ward..."
Alicia increased her bid by 1 million dollars each time.
When the bid hit 100 million dollars, the room fell so silent one could hear a pin drop. Everyone's eyes were on Alicia, waiting for her next move.
Alicia met everyone's gaze.
She weighed whether she or Caden would end up victorious.
Given Caden's wealth, his triumph seemed almost certain.
It would be wiser for her to back down, preserving her remaining pride.
Caden glanced at the necklace nonchalantly.
Determination gleamed in his dark eyes.
He understood that if he won today, Alicia would never accept the necklace from him.
Even if she did, she'd likely toss it straight into the trash.
The thought excited him.
He smiled as the auctioneer announced, "100 million dollars going once."