Chapter 144 Light the Lantern

The auction officially began. The host walked onto the stage, the spotlight following him. The first item brought out was a sapphire brooch with an intricate design, named Heart of the Deep Sea. Joseph turned his head toward Nancy, smiling. "Do you like it?" She did not even look up. Unbothered, he raised his paddle and said, "Eight million dollars." That was exactly his plan—to flaunt buying something "she liked" right in front of Sebastian. A cool voice followed immediately. "Ten million dollars." It was Sebastian. Joseph's grin faltered for an instant before twisting back into a smug, taunting smile. He casually lifted his paddle. "15 million dollars." "20 million dollars." Sebastian did not so much as flinch, his bid coming without the slightest hesitation. The numbers climbed rapidly, and the room crackled with energy. Everyone knew this was not just an auction anymore, but a showdown between the two Gates brothers. Joseph's face darkened. Locking eyes with Seba