Marcus, a high-profile businessman who was in his sixties, countered with "$15 million."
Just then, a middle-aged man in a suit jumped in with "$16 million."
A bossy-looking woman with a sharp jawline raised her paddle. "$20 million."
Desmond's eyes narrowed as he saw that he had lots of competitors. He raised the bidding to 24 million.
Marcus responded with "$25 million."
The middle-aged man bid "$25.5 million."
The bossy woman countered with "$26 million."
Desmond's competitive spirit flared and he raised it up. "$30 million."
Marcus and the middle-aged man dropped out, shaking their head. Desmond smiled, though the woman have not given up. She continued trading blows with Desmond by bidding 31 million. Desmond countered with 35 million.
Anabel remained silent, observing the chaos. All she knew was that Desmond will never win.
The woman hesitated before dropping. Desmond stood alone, his eyes fixed on the auctioneer. At this point, he was already seeing himself as the CEO of Smithson Corporation.
But just as the auctioneer's hammer was about to fall, Anabel's soft voice cut through. "$50 million dollars."
The room went silent. Heads turned, seeking the source of the bid. Desmond's eyes widened as he spotted Anabel's paddle. The room erupted into shocked murmurs.
"Who is this young lady?" someone whispered. Since Orton has not introduced her, no one knew her.
"Which company is she representing?" Another voice trailed off. Desmond's face darkened. How could Anabel, a janitor, bid such an astronomical amount? It was unbelievable.
The auctioneer's voice cut through the commotion. "$50 million from... What is your name, young lady?" The auctioneer asked.
"My name is Anabel." She replied with a smile.
"Fifty million dollars from Miss Anabel!" The auctioneer pronounced.
Desmond's eyes locked onto Anabel. His mind was racing. What was going on? Where did she get the funds? None of her lovers can give her that kind of money. Is she representing Orton's group? A janitor cannot represent a whole company, not to talk of a company like Orton. Does she got a promotion that I'm not aware of?
Even though it was a big challenge, he was not ready to back off.
"Fifty-five million!" Desmond bid. His voice was still firm. Anabel's gaze flickered to Desmond, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes.
"Fifty-five million and one dollar," she countered with a smile on her face.
"Sixty million dollars." Desmond bid even though it's higher than his capability.
"Sixty million and 2 dollars." Anabel countered again with a smirk. At this point, Desmond could tell she was playing with his emotions. She was practically toying with him.
"Who is behind this?" He asked himself amidst confusion. He would not back down.
"Seventy million dollars. Now back off, little brat." He smiled at Anabel. But Anabel's next bid left him speechless.
"Wow, Mr. Desmond. That's a lot of money. For someone like you and others." She said to him and turned to the auctioneer before raising the paddle. "One hundred million dollars!"
At this point, Desmond could not bid any longer. He was angry and furious.
"A hundred million dollars from Miss Anabel. Anyone to bid higher? The auctioneer asked. "You have ten seconds."
People began to murmur, but no one was able to raise the paddle. Desmond felt humiliated, but he couldn't just do anything. He couldn't afford to bid a hundred million dollars for the company.
"Three seconds to go!" The auctioneer announced,e and without getting any response, he brought the gavel down to the rostrum, announcing Anabel the winner. "Sold to Miss Anabel for one hundred million dollars!"
Desmond's eyes never left Anabel's face. He felt a mix of shock, anger, and curiosity. What secrets was Anabel hiding?