Chapter 124

“Sixty million dollars…going once…going twice…” The auctioneer’s voice echoed. Kayla’s heart hammered. She glared at Paisley, expecting a last-minute bid. But Paisley remained motionless, her paddle untouched.

“Sold!” The gavel fell. Sixty million dollars. Kayla’s.

She leaped up, hugging Marissa. “I won! I won!” Then, a triumphant glance at Paisley. A silent “Hmph.”

Marissa, however, looked uneasy. She felt manipulated. Paisley calmly sipped her water, ignoring Kayla’s smugness.

Two teachers, wide-eyed, whispered, “Millions? They treat money like nothing!” But a thrill pulsed through them. This money could change lives in their village – warm clothes, sanitary pads, a better classroom.

Lucy, watching Paisley’s quiet confidence, leaned in. “You deliberately provoked Ms. Vanderbilt, didn’t you?”

Paisley’s determined gaze confirmed it.

Lucy gasped. “Amazing! But what if Ms. Vanderbilt had stopped bidding? You’d have bought it yourself!”

“I had my calculations,” Paisley replied. Years spent with the Vanderbilts had taught her their spending habits. Besides, she’d buy it herself if necessary. Helping those girls was what mattered.

Diana observed Kayla with disdain. A fool, she thought. And Lauren’s precious daughter, no less. She smiled warmly at Paisley, who returned the smile with quiet dignity.

The painting would be delivered the next day, but Kayla, being a Vanderbilt, secured immediate possession. Clutching her prize, a palpable thrill coursing through her, she declared, “Marissa, I’m finding Mr. Vaire now!”

Heads turned. Even Paisley looked confused. Who’s she going to meet with my painting? she wondered.