Page 13 of Monster

I couldn't wait until I had enough power over this territory to push the Lucchese's and their insane family off this island for good. I mean, selling women? Who the fuck did that kind of nonsense?

They did. That’s who.

I murmured to myself. “Disgusting, amoral—”

Helena’s giggle wafted through the microphone. “And remember, gentlemen: all bids are final, all of them need to be paid in full, and the contract to take ownership of your merchandise will have to be signed for before you leave.”

A forever auction.

These are the worst.

These kinds of things were no better than the slave auctions that took place centuries ago. And it made me sick to watch. One by one, girls were hauled onto the stage, clad in makeup that made me nauseous. Some girls were crying. Most of them looked like they hadn’t had a proper meal in a few days. One of the girls even begged for her life as she was purchased and dragged off stage.

Then, things got worse.

“Item number four! A beautiful American woman. Her talents are singing, dancing, and anything that requires her tongue. She’s a snappy broad with an attitude those out there with a strong upper-hand will love subduing. And for her? The bidding starts at half a million.”

I watched someone’s paddle go up as the girl emerged into the spotlight. And for a moment, I was impressed with how high she held her head. How straight her back had become. How she held herself with grace and poise, despite the running makeup and the obvious tears dripping from her eyes.

Then, I almost swallowed my tongue once I finally recognized her. Those eyes. That dress.

Those curves.

The woman being auctioned off was Charlotte Pettigrew.

What the fuck was she doing on that stage halfway across the world?

“Shit,” I hissed.

“I hear half a mill! Do I hear three quarters? Three quarters of a million?” Helena asked.

“Three quarters!” someone yelled.

“Splendid! A million? Come on, look at her curves. Look at this dress! You know she’s going to be worth it.”

I raised my hand. “A million.”

Helena giggled from the stage. “I told you, sir.”

“A mil and a half!” someone exclaimed.

“Two million!” another man yelled.

I raised my hand. “Five million if you hand her to me right now.”

“Six million!”

I turned my head in the direction of the voice. “Six and a half.”

“Seven!”

I growled to myself. “Ten million if you give her to me right now, Helena!”

Helena pointed at me. “Sold, for ten million dollars to the man in the corner!”

My eyes found hers as Charlotte stared in my direction on stage, and whether she could see me or not, I wasn’t sure. I had spent more money than I ever cared to that night. In fact, the only money I planned on spending that night was the money I paid for my drinks. But, I knew I’d find a way to make it worth my while.

Especially since my curiosity had piqued so greatly.

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