Chapter 756

Vera’s friend, Bianca Roffe, missed her comment. “What did you say? I didn’t hear you.”

Vera’s face darkened. “Mr. Gardner Senior has always been respectable. How is it that, at his age, he can’t control himself anymore?” She spoke quietly, mindful of the crowd. The auction was packed, and some attendees knew Alexander. Discretion was necessary.

“What’s he not controlling?” Bianca asked, following Vera’s gaze. She saw Alexander chatting amiably with a young woman. Although she couldn’t hear them, their interaction was clearly friendly.

Bianca’s eyes widened. “That young woman is quite something,” she whispered, incredulous. “I’ve never seen anyone near Mr. Gardner Senior before, and his grandson must be nearly twenty. She looks like she’s still in college. For someone so young to put up with this just for money…it’s impressive.”

Vera’s face twisted in disgust. “I’ve seen her before. She’s involved with Aiken and Rowan. She’ll do anything to marry into wealth.”

“What?” Bianca exclaimed, then laughed. “That’s actually quite common. Women from modest backgrounds often need to work harder to improve their circumstances. Otherwise, they might remain trapped in their social class. There are countless women like her. In the entertainment industry, for example, many aspiring actresses are striving for success. My father and brother have even supported a few up-and-coming stars.”

Vera frowned. “Enough. Stop talking about this. It’s spoiling what should be a pleasant auction.”

“Alright.”

The auction began shortly after. Vera tried to focus on the items. Influenced by her grandfather, Denton Ruell, and her father, Buck Ruell, both avid antique collectors, she hoped to purchase a few pieces for their upcoming birthdays, especially since many rare foreign items were up for auction.

Despite her efforts, she couldn’t help glancing at Skylar. Vera admired Skylar’s composure; in their three previous encounters, Skylar had remained unaffected by others’ opinions.

“Look at that 206 BC to 220 AD double-handled porcelain jar. It’s quite rare. I frequent auctions, and I’ve hardly ever seen one,” Bianca exclaimed, bringing Vera back to the present.

Vera immediately looked. After a quick glance, she raised her bidding paddle. “Eight million.”

Others began bidding. Skylar and Alexander both turned to look at Vera. By then, she’d already bid twelve million. Seeing Skylar watching, Vera raised an eyebrow. Perhaps Alexander intended to bid for her. She sighed at the thought of Alexander’s diminished sharpness and increased indulgence. Unfortunately, she needed that item.

After meeting Vera’s determined gaze, Skylar turned to Alexander. “There might be some issues.”

Alexander frowned. “The items at the auction have been verified. I can’t disclose any issues with the antiques to others.” Auctions were complex. Despite his prominence and respect in Jipsburg, vague concerns would only be taken seriously by those who trusted him. Others would be skeptical.

“I’ll bid on it,” Alexander decided. He intended to acquire all problematic items to prevent harm.

He placed his bid. However, Vera, determined to win, continued to raise her paddle.