Chapter 7

Carlos lowered his head slightly toward Robert. "Mr. Zabinski."

Those who had just mocked Robert stared at him in astonishment, their expressions grim. They had intended to humiliate him, but none expected him to be the Zabinski family heir.

Many wealthy Yrinas residents, especially the younger generation, behaved ostentatiously. Their parents, while not disapproving, cautioned them against crossing the Zabinski family. In Yrinas, offending the Zabinski family meant ruin, regardless of one's industry. Survival in their circle hinged on avoiding such an offense. Yet, they had just insulted the family's son.

News of the Zabinski heir's arrival had circulated the previous night, but no one anticipated a young man with such a nouveau riche temperament.

"Mr. Zabinski, I apologize for what happened. Please forgive us."

"Mr. Zabinski, please allow me to treat you to a meal as an apology."

Those who had previously ignored Robert now flocked to him, addressing him as "Mr. Zabinski" regardless of age or status; none dared offend the Zabinski family. Even the elders surrounded him, apologizing profusely. Everyone understood that as the heir, he would soon become the most powerful figure in Yrinas' social circle.

The short-haired, beautiful woman winked at Robert more frequently, her legs in black stockings undeniably attractive.

"Mr. Zabinski, let's go inside," Carlos said, gesturing as he stood beside Robert.

Robert nodded and entered the club with Carlos.

The club's hall was meticulously decorated. An elegant stage featured countless high-end armchairs arranged for bidding. Each chair was labeled with a guest's name, but Robert couldn't find his. His attention was drawn instead to Marilyn's and Kendrick's names.

"Mr. Zabinski, we're sitting upstairs," Carlos said, pointing to the second floor. A private room with floor-to-ceiling windows offered a view of the hall, while maintaining complete privacy from those below.

From the private room, Robert experienced the privileges of wealth firsthand. Almost every wealthy Yrinas family was on the guest list, yet he likely possessed exclusive access to this room. The couches were worth nearly $150,000; each bottle of mineral water cost hundreds of dollars; fresh fruit and aromatic coffee were served; and two elegantly dressed servers stood silently in attendance.

However, Robert barely registered these luxuries. Having seen Marilyn and Kendrick's names downstairs, his mind was elsewhere.

Over time, the club filled with more guests. Robert's eyes remained fixed on the entrance. When two figures walked in, his eyes widened.

Marilyn, in a crimson evening gown, was stunning. Her delicate features, tall stature, and enigmatic demeanor captivated even in this lavish setting. She smiled and greeted people as she entered, arm in arm with Kendrick.

Noticing Robert's gaze and rapid breathing, Carlos explained, "Mr. Zabinski, those are from the Quesnell and Zabel families, respectively. They're not part of the Yrinas business circle."

Robert nodded. He hadn't seen Marilyn and Kendrick's names on the guest list.

The auction commenced. A professional host energized the atmosphere while a beautiful usherette presented the items. Robert watched without bidding.

Carlos finally prompted, "Mr. Zabinski, even if they're not our equals, you should bid on an item or two. It's just for fun." Zachary had instructed Carlos to bring Robert to acclimate him to this lifestyle, but Robert remained passive.

Next, two rare postage stamps were presented. Marilyn, having observed quietly, raised her paddle. "Fifteen thousand dollars."

"Marilyn, are you interested in postage stamps?" Kendrick asked.

Marilyn shook her head slightly. "An elder we know collects them; my mother asked me to acquire these."

While not as popular as paintings or antiques, two avid stamp collectors were present. The price quickly reached $75,000.

A middle-aged man chuckled, "Ha-ha, if this beautiful lady from the Quesnell family wants them, I'll yield."

"Thank you," Marilyn replied.

With no further bids, the host announced, "Seventy-five thousand dollars! Is anyone going higher? First call. Second call. Third—"

"$150,000!" Carlos's voice boomed from the VIP room.

The price doubled, causing heads to turn. The bid's price and source were both remarkable.

Marilyn frowned. Unfamiliar with the Yrinas business circle, she knew the Zabinski family was powerful and secretive, with vast holdings. She hadn't anticipated competing with them. She would have yielded if she hadn't been fulfilling her mother's request for an elder's birthday gift. Taking a deep breath, she prepared to bid.

Before she could speak, Carlos called out, "$300,000!"

Marilyn bit her lip. The sum far exceeded the stamps' value.

Seeing her expression, Kendrick said, "Marilyn, don't worry. I'll get these stamps for you. No one can stop me."

(The final line "Send Gift" seems out of place and unrelated to the text.)