Chapter 111

The memory still stung. When Nathaniel had taken her to those high-profile events before, Alexander had acted like she didn't exist at all.

Her thoughts were interrupted as the auction began. The auctioneer stepped onto the stage, and the murmuring crowd fell silent.

Isabella had studied the catalog thoroughly. She'd marked two potential targets - an exquisite emerald set and a rare embroidered masterpiece by a famous artist.

Which one she'd actually bid for would depend on how the night unfolded.

The auction progressed swiftly.

Isabella remained focused, only lifting her paddle when items she wanted came up.

Across the room, neither Alexander nor Victoria had made any bids yet.

Then Emily nudged her sharply. Victoria had finally raised her paddle for a dazzling diamond bracelet.

The piece was unmistakably designed for young women, created by an internationally renowned jeweler.

No question - Alexander was buying this for Victoria.

The opening bid was set at 1.5 million. Victoria immediately doubled it to 3 million. Other bidders pushed it to 4 million.

Isabella watched as Victoria leaned toward Alexander, whispering something. Then came the clear, confident voice: "Eight million."

The room erupted in murmurs.

While beautiful, the bracelet wasn't worth half that amount. Four million had already been excessive.

But Victoria clearly adored it. And Alexander, with his bottomless pockets and penchant for extravagance, wasn't about to let anyone else win it for her.

The shock in the room was palpable - not just at the reckless spending, but at the blatant display of favoritism.

As expected, no one dared challenge the 8 million bid. Victoria claimed her prize with a triumphant smile.

Emily gritted her teeth. "That's enough to give anyone cavities."

Before Isabella could respond, the next lot was announced.

An antique vase took center stage.

Victoria's paddle went up again.

Starting at 5 million.

Bids climbed in modest increments until Victoria's turn. She doubled the highest offer to 10 million.

Several competitors dropped out, but the room was filled with deep pockets.

Then a masculine voice cut through: "15 million."

Isabella turned to see a strikingly handsome young man.

"That's Dominic Fairchild," Emily whispered.

Isabella gave a slight nod.

Victoria hesitated, glancing at Alexander.

The realization hit Isabella - Victoria wasn't bidding for herself. This was clearly intended for Beatrice Kensington, Alexander's grandmother who collected antiques.

Alexander gave a subtle nod. Victoria raised her paddle. "25 million."

Dominic chuckled. "30 million."

Victoria leaned closer to Alexander, appearing ready to withdraw.

But Alexander shook his head.

Victoria lifted her paddle again. "40 million."

Dominic's voice rang out immediately. "50 million." He flashed a challenging smile toward Alexander's box.

Victoria frowned, whispering to Alexander, "Perhaps... we should let this one go?"

Fifty million was absurd for a single vase.