Page 48 of The CEO Enemy

A few moments later, the grand hall transforms into an auction arena, and the Grand Hospitality Affair unfolds.

It isn’t just huge. It’s grand. Nowhere I can spot Richard.

When I take my seat, I take one more look around, absently twirling a ring on my ring finger, the pretty piece of jewelry we made a surprise pit stop for at the jewelers. I did protest, but Sean had insisted the jeweler was waiting, and who was I to argue? Of course, I’ll return the ring after our time as a fake couple is up. Its placement among my other rings is intended for an audience of one. While it might give off the impression of an engagement ring to a particular observer, the intention is to keep everyone else blissfully unaware is working perfectly.

Such a bummer he isn’t here. Oh, well, he’ll likely see one of the photos in tomorrow’s paper. There are photographers everywhere. Now, I’m not a spiteful person, but for some reason, there’s something oddly satisfying about the idea of Richard discovering me in the midst of success—it’s like a balm for my wounded heart.

Moments later, bidding paddles are discreetly distributed.

The auctioneer, an elegant figure, takes the stage, introducing the first item—a rare piece of art starting at five thousand dollars.

I’m not bidding, but watch when other bidders enter the fray. With a calculated glance, Sean makes his move now and then, subtly escalating the bids.

“Jaysus, Sean’s makin’ sure those art pieces go for a pretty feckin’ penny. Owners will be thanking him from their new yachts,” Connor whispers, sitting next to me. He can’t help but offer a low whistle. “He’d usually be quiet enough about any contribution, but he’s making his presence known today, whatever’s goin’ on.” He smirks, but I don’t have time to react.

A masterpiece of modern art takes center stage, and a hush falls over the room.

The auctioneer introduces the Metropolitan Reverie.

It’s the drawing I’ve been waiting for, the reason why I’m here.

It looks even better than I imagined.

The canvas is an impressive twenty-one by ten feet, and it’s an abstract piece that captures the skyline of New York City. After several recent exhibitions, Josephine Ashford’s artwork is gaining recognition in the art world, sparking rising demand both nationally and internationally. By the looks of this piece, the artist utilized her entire arm length to blend bold, swirling charcoal strokes to represent the city’s vibrant energy. The skyline is powerful, with subtle references to iconic NYC landmarks. But wait…no…is that what I think it is? Amid the abstract forms, I discover something that quickens my pulse. There’s a hidden figure that resembles Spider-man swinging through the city! I know it’s just in my imagination—but I’m sure it’s a sign.

Now I know it for certain: I have to have it. Oh, it’ll look more than wonderful in our lobby. It’s perfect!

“We’re starting the bidding at fifty thousand dollars for this exquisite piece,” the auctioneer begins.

My heart races, and the air is thick with anticipation.

Of course, Sean notices my excitement, and he turns to me, his brow going up just a millimeter. That’s the one?

I offer him a subtle nod.

Go for it, his eyes say. Show’s all yours.

All right, I eye back.

The bidding war for Metropolitan Reverie begins, and I join the action, bringing the bid up to fifty-five thousand dollars.

As expected, several paddles rise at the next amounts, but my eyes remain fixed on the artwork. Soon, the increments become smaller, and one by one, bidders start bowing out. With each increase, my determination intensifies, and soon we reach the pivotal moment.

The auctioneer asks, “Do I hear one hundred thousand dollars?”

At that, I raise my paddle once again, my hand shaking a little. That’s so much money. But I’m ready to claim what I think will be an amazing investment, both financially and aesthetically.

My heart quickens when no one else matches the auctioneer’s next bid suggestion.

Connor leans in. “That’s the job done now, I’d say,” he whispers to me, and even Daniela, sitting front row, turns to offer a warm smile.

“Going once... going twice…” the auctioneer begins, and just as the realization of triumph settles in, a sharp voice sounds from the back.

“Two hundred thousand dollars.”

The room buzzes with surprise. I turn, disbelief written all over my face.

It’s Richard.

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