Chapter 724

Calligraphy, paintings, and vases dominated the front displays. Prices were reasonable, and these items sold quickly. Tonight's final auction item was the sapphire necklace Elizabeth coveted. She wasn't the only one; many socialites eagerly awaited it. The starting price was $200,000, with bids increasing in $100,000 increments. Although the starting price was modest, numerous bids quickly escalated the necklace's value to $2.4 million. Elizabeth remained unfazed. Joseph had already given her $6 million. As long as the price stayed below that amount, the necklace was hers. She sipped her wine, a self-satisfied smile playing on her lips. Tonight, she would be the star.

Bidding stalled at $3.6 million. Squeezing Joseph’s hand, and receiving his nod, she confidently placed her bid: "4 million!"

Heads turned; many were surprised. Elizabeth held her head high, a smug smile on her face. “What are you looking at? You all looked down on me because I'm a mistress. Climbing the social ladder is my skill. Soon, the Tanner Corporation will be mine!”

The auctioneer raised his hammer. “Anyone else? 4 million, going once, going twice—”

“4.2 million.”

A young man calmly bid, stunning both Elizabeth and Joseph. After a moment’s hesitation, Elizabeth countered: “5 million!” She wouldn't let this man win; the necklace was hers. Joseph, having promised her $6 million, remained silent. He wasn't worried; it was just a necklace. The Tanner Corporation would soon be his; he couldn't afford to appear petty by refusing to buy his mistress a necklace.

“5.2 million!” the young man countered.

Elizabeth glared and bid, “6 million!” She was at her limit, but she didn't care. Victory seemed assured.

“6.2 million…”

The young man was determined. The crowd was silent. The necklace’s price far exceeded its actual value; it had become absurdly expensive. While the sapphire was magnificent, it was not worth that much.