Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown novel Chapter 152

"Starting at ten million, Mr. Vance seems determined to win the Diamond Crown," someone murmured, awe evident in their voice.

"Isn't it obvious? Miss Lynwood mentioned she adored the Diamond Crown. Naturally, Mr. Vance would go to great lengths to make her smile!"

"How envious of Miss Lynwood. Mr. Vance truly dotes on her."

In the midst of the envious chatter, a refined and clear voice piped up, "Ten million and one."

The crowd was momentarily stunned.

They turned toward the voice and were even more surprised to see Samuel standing there.

Serena's eyes widened in shock too. She tugged gently at Samuel's sleeve. "Samuel, be reasonable," she whispered. "You can't outbid Aaron."

If Cynthia Lynwood wanted something, Aaron would surely make it his mission to obtain it.

Samuel just turned his head, smiling warmly at Serena. "Do you want it, my dear?"

His smile was as sincere and gentle as a springtime sunbeam.

Serena hesitated, her voice faltering.

In the short pause, Aaron’s voice rang out again, "Twenty million!"

Samuel countered calmly, "Twenty million and one."

"Thirty million!!"

"Thirty million and one."

"Fifty million!!!"

As the price soared higher, Serena quickly grabbed Samuel's arm more firmly. "Samuel, let it go. It's just a replica. I don't even like it!"

Samuel turned, disbelief evident in his eyes.

On stage, Yvonne was visibly irritated by Samuel’s persistent bidding. She hastily banged the gavel, "Fifty million once! Fifty million twice! Fifty million thrice! Sold! Congratulations to Mr. Vance on acquiring the Diamond Crown."

Though the Diamond Crown was a replica, the craftsmanship was exceptional. She might have learned techniques for restoring antiques from it.

"Let's go," Serena said, offering Samuel a gentle smile.

What wasn’t meant to be hers, never would be.

Seeing that she was truly unaffected, Samuel relaxed and smiled back.

"Shouldn't you get the collectors' contact information?"

Serena shook her head, her expression dimming slightly.

After tonight’s events, those collectors probably wouldn't even dare speak to her.

She needed a new strategy.

Thinking of the antique vase she had restored for William last time, her eyes brightened with renewed determination.