Chapter 64

Another text from his father arrived: "[Clara has provoked someone terrifying!]" A storm of thoughts swirled in Michael's mind. He couldn't imagine who held such power. He frowned, glancing at Dustin before scoffing. Him? Dustin was nobody; not even worth mentioning. It couldn't possibly be him.

While the wealthy heirs fidgeted anxiously, Clara stood on stage, deeply disappointed. She didn't understand why no one was bidding on her work. Even one person breaking the awkward silence would have been enough.

"This is Miss Clara's finest work," the host announced from the stage. "It's highly valuable for any collection. Is there nobody who feels tempted to bid?" Silence. The atmosphere grew even more awkward.

Clara made a decision, whispering something to the host.

"The person who purchases Miss Clara's painting today at a high price will have the opportunity to have dinner with her!" the host enthusiastically proclaimed. Dustin smiled mockingly. Clara, arrogant and prideful in the past, would never have stooped so low. Her desperation was evident as she sacrificed her dignity to salvage the situation.

The wealthy heirs, obsessed with Clara's beauty, were clearly tempted but conflicted. They dared not bid; giving up everything for a dinner with Clara was unthinkable. No one was foolish enough to do so. The room remained silent.

Clara bit her lip so hard it almost bled, yet still, no one offered support. She felt utterly humiliated.

Chapter 64 (Continued)

The humiliation choked her with anger.

"Someone has raised a bid!" the host suddenly shouted.

Clara's spirits lifted; she looked over with gratitude. But her face froze when she saw who it was: Dustin, the person she despised most. Her heart sank. This was adding insult to injury.

"Sir, how much are you willing to bid?" The host remained oblivious.

Dustin smiled faintly and raised a finger.

"One million dollars?" the host asked.

"One dollar," Dustin corrected.

"What? One dollar?" The host's face stiffened. Clara's face flushed with fury. He was clearly humiliating her. Since she'd set no minimum price, his bid was valid.

The room fell silent. The host had no choice but to proceed.

"This gentleman has bid one dollar. Are there any higher bids?" He called out three times, but received no response. "If no one else bids, Miss Clara's work will go to this gentleman!" he sighed helplessly. "One dollar! Going once. Going twice. Going thrice! Sold!"

With the sound of the gavel, Dustin purchased Clara's painting for a single dollar. As the painting was brought to him, Clara's face darkened.

"This painting can be hung in the bathroom for decoration, I guess," Dustin said with a raised eyebrow. "As for the dinner, I think I'll pass. I already have someone by my side, so I don't need Miss Clara's company." He chuckled mockingly.

Clara's chest heaved; fury and shame consumed her. She could bear it no longer. She collapsed backward.

"Miss Clara has fainted! Call an ambulance!"