Chapter 72: Throw a Wrench in the Works

“Sir…” Milo looked at Derek.

With a subtle nod from Derek, Milo confidently raised his paddle. “Two billion.”

Caleb and Austin exchanged a mischievous glance, thinking Derek was simply toying with the competition. Their grins quickly faded, however, as a competitor shouted, “Five billion!”

Caleb leaped to his feet, his cheerful demeanor gone. He muttered under his breath, “Damn it! This woman is ruining everything! She’s thrown in the top price!”

He’d planned a subtle approach, probing the competition’s eagerness to secure the land. This unexpected bid, however, blindsided them all. Five billion was already the highest anticipated price; going higher meant a guaranteed loss. They’d intended to use the land to kickstart new housing developments, aiming to revitalize the area's property values.

What was the competitor's motive? Did she own nearby properties? Their confidence in securing the land had been shattered by this unforeseen rival. Caleb, seething with frustration, was on the verge of confronting her.

“Is she intentionally throwing us off?” Austin murmured, bewildered by her audacity.

The five-billion bid sent shockwaves through the crowd, sparking intense speculation about Vivienne’s financial resources. The auctioneer, visibly exhilarated, gripped the gavel tightly. He’d never anticipated the price exceeding two and a half billion.

Regaining his composure, he announced, “Is there anyone willing to top five billion? Going once, going twice… sold for five billion!” The gavel slammed down so hard it broke, a dramatic testament to his excitement.

After the auction, Vivienne discreetly exited through a back door, pausing to give a significant look towards a specific corner of the room. Reporters expecting her were surprised to find a Sinclair Group representative instead. They quickly adjusted, bombarding Scarlett with questions.

“Why did Sinclair Group buy this land for double its expected price?”

“Does this purchase reflect Miss Vivienne’s strategic vision?”

Maintaining her composure, Scarlett replied, “Thank you for your questions. Our company acquired this land to initiate an eco-friendly project. On behalf of Miss Vivienne, I appreciate your interest in both her and our group.”

As Vivienne left the venue, texting Sienna, she heard fast-approaching footsteps. “Miss Vivienne, my boss wishes to speak with you.”

She looked up at the man in black, then at the nearby black Rolls-Royce. As the car door opened, she recognized the familiar figure inside. Derek sat reviewing a document, the picture of an executive.

Feeling her gaze, he looked up. In that instant, Vivienne’s heart skipped a beat, and her breath caught in her throat.