Page 6 of His to Possess
I noticed a sudden shift in Laurel's demeanor as the next item was presented. She leaned forward, eyes widening with interest. It was a small, unassuming watercolor, nothing like the masterpieces that had been sold earlier. Yet her reaction wasmore intense than anything I had seen from her that night. Intriguing.
The auctioneer's voice rang out, "Next, we have a charming watercolor landscape, unsigned and undated. Initial estimates placed it as a minor work from the late 19th century."
I saw Laurel's eyebrows raise slightly, her lips parting in what looked like surprise.
The auctioneer continued, "However, recent analysis suggests this may be an early, previously unknown work by J.M.W. Turner. The technique and color palette are consistent with his early style, and there's a faint ink mark that may be the remnant of his signature hidden beneath the frame."
My eyebrows shot up. I hadn't known about this development. I glanced at Laurel, who was now sitting on the edge of her seat, eyes gleaming with excitement. She wanted this. I could tell.
"Due to the uncertain provenance, we'll start the bidding at $200,000," the auctioneer announced.
The room fell silent. Despite the potential value, no one seemed willing to take the risk. I watched as disappointment flickered across Laurel's face.
Something stirred within me. Before I could fully process my actions, my paddle was in the air.
"$200,000 to the gentleman in the third row," the auctioneer called out, a note of relief in his voice.
I felt August's eyes boring into me from across the room. This wasn't my usual style—I didn't make impulsive bids on unverified works. But something about Laurel's reaction had piqued my interest. She spun around, as if she wanted to check who had gotten the piece she so desperately wanted. At that moment, I was barely aware of my surroundings. All that existed was her. Her expression scrunched, and her eyes lingered on mine for a moment longer before she turned back.
"Going once, going twice… sold to the gentleman in the third row for $200,000!"
The gavel fell, sealing my unexpected purchase. From the corner of my eye, I saw the look of utter bewilderment on August's face. It was as if I had done something spectacularly out of character. I barely registered the subsequent pieces being sold, my mind working overtime to formulate plans. How to win the painting, how to approach Laurel, how to make them both mine.
"Next up, Lot 15, The Veiled Maiden by Ishnii Volkov," the auctioneer announced.
My attention snapped back to the front. This was it.
"We'll start the bidding at $500,000. Do I hear $500,000?"
Hands shot up around the room. I remained still, waiting.
"$750,000 to the lady in red. Do I hear $800,000?"
August's voice rang out, "One million."
I clenched my jaw but stayed silent.
"1.5 million," called out another voice.
The bidding war escalated quickly. I watched Laurel from the corner of my eye. She was leaning forward slightly, her green eyes assessing with interest.
"Three million," August announced, shooting me a smug look.
I raised my paddle. "3.5 million."
The room buzzed with excitement. Laurel turned slightly, her gaze sweeping over the crowd. For a moment, our eyes met once more. She was intrigued—I could tell. And while I wanted nothing more than to capture her attention right now, I knew I couldn't allow myself to get distracted. I held her gaze, letting a small smile play on my lips before turning back to the auctioneer.
"Four million," a new voice called out.
August countered immediately. "$4.5 million."
I stayed silent, waiting. Let them think I was out.
"4.5 million going once… going twice…"
I raised my paddle. "Five million."
A gasp rippled through the crowd. August's face contorted with fury.
