The Jilted Heiress' Return To The High Life

Chapter 263 A Convenient

Trick

Corrine lifted the intercom with deliberate grace, her voice carrying quiet authority. "Jacob, remove all constraints on the bidding."

Her meaning crystallized-this extraordinary blue diamond

diamond would be hers, regardless

of price.

Such a rare specimen transcended mere investment; it represented an eternal treasure whose value would only appreciate with time.

Jacob absorbed her directive, a flutter of sympathy stirring for the other bidders.

History had proven that Corrine's desires inevitably transformed into acquisitions, and today would prove no different.

He raised his paddle with practiced confidence, declaring, "One hundred million." Other paddles rose in response, though their incremental increases of ten million revealed collective caution.

From her position in the audience, Leah's fingers curled into tight fists, her heart oscillating between hope and trepidation.

She yearned for the diamond while harboring fears that Bruce might withdraw from the escalating battle.

Perceiving her anxiety, Bruce enveloped her hand in his while raising his paddle. "One hundred and fifty million."

This auction represented more than a mere luxury purchase or romantic gesture; it served as a calculated statement of the Ashton family's unwavering financial dominance, a message aimed directly at their increasingly nervous board members. Despite recent scandals, Ashton Group remained an indomitable force.

His bold bid sparked immediate whispers throughout the assembly."

"The Ashton Group's Bruce Ashton..."

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Chapter 263 A Convenient Trick

"Their influence remains formidable..."

The gathered elite of Lyhaton, well-versed in the family's recent tribulations and stock market challenges, had anticipated a period of discretion rather than such an overt display of economic might.

But the competition was far from over.

After a brief lull, the bidding resumed, the numbers climbing steadily. "One hundred and sixty million!"

"One hundred and seventy million!"

"One hundred and eighty million!"

"Two hundred million!"

As the numbers climbed, Bruce's composed facade began to crack. Despite its inherent value, in Bruce's eyes, this diamond wasn't worth over two hundred million. Besides, the family's resources, already strained by their settlement with Corrine, left little room

for such extravagance.

Doubt clouded his expression as perspiration dampened his palm.

"Leah..." he began uncertainly.

"Perhaps we should withdraw," Leah interjected softly.

Bruce turned to her, surprise evident in his features.

She squeezed his hand, offering a tender smile. “While diamonds may be eternal, our my life outweighs any material love surpasses even that permanence. Your presence in possession."

Rita, unable to contain herself, interrupted, "Bruce, fulfill Leah's desire! This is unprecedented-the largest blue diamond ever auctioned!"

"Rita, other opportunities await us," Leah demurred, though disappointment shadowed her eyes.noveldrama

Bruce studied her expression intently before squaring his shoulders with renewed determination. His paddle rose once more. "Two hundred and ten million!"

A glimmer of satisfaction danced in Leah's eyes.

She had mastered the art of strategic disappointment, knowing that the slightest

display would awaken Bruce's guilt and inspire his unwavering devotion-a skill she

had refined to perfection.