Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism

Chapter 130 Auction Showdown Holding a small hammer, the auctioneer expertly gestured for bids while speaking fluently in English, showcasing a high level of professionalism.

Anton sneaked a peek at the bidder beside him.

Quickly jotting down a figure in their notebook, the bidder confidently raised their paddle, declaring, "4.5 million dollars." A bid of 4.5 million dollars! Mr. and Mrs. Blake felt a moment of unease. Attempting to discern who had placed the bid proved difficult, as they could only glimpse a few heads before them without a clear view of the bidder. Zelena felt her parents' uncertainty and unwillingness to buy the bangle for her.

She reminisced about her previous life when Mr. and Mrs. Blake had lavished millions on jewellery for Violeta, making this 4.5 million dollar bid seem insignificant by comparison.

A pull at her heartstrings prompted Zelena to intervene, "Dad, Mom, it's okay. While the bangle is indeed beautiful, it's overly expensive. We shouldn't go for it. I've always embraced simplicity and never adorned myself in costly jewellery; it might not even look good on me. Let's skip this one." Zelena was firm in her stance.

Utilising emotional appeal, she reminded her parents of her struggles before rejoining the Blake family. Despite now being recognised as the esteemed eldest daughter of the Blake family, they wavered on purchasing the jewellery for her.

Mrs. Blake was struck by guilt, thinking of Zelena, the daughter she had carried for ten months.

"Lena, please don't say such things. It would break my heart. This bangle is well within our means, and I assure you, it will be yours." She then nudged Mr. Blake, signalling him to bid higher and secure the bangle for Zelena.

Mr. Blake lifted his paddle and offered, "4.8 million dollars." This gesture filled Zelena with a fleeting sense of happiness.

"Thank you, Mom." The White family, although not the wealthiest, had substantial financial resources.

In the meantime, Anton and Irene remained quiet in the front row. The auctioneer, standing close by, recalculated and then increased the bid.

"5.25 million dollars." Mr. Blake countered with, "5.55 million dollars." "6 million dollars." "6.15 million dollars." The bidding surpassed 6 million dollars, significantly higher than the bangle's market value. Though the hue of the violet was unique, it couldn't compare to the coveted Imperial Green. For over 6 million dollars, acquiring Imperial Green would be more justifiable. The auctioneer was about to advise against further escalation, but Anton's determined gaze immediately stopped him, showing his intent on winning the bangle. While the White family might not be the wealthiest, funding was not an issue for them. Does one need to ponder the price when purchasing a bangle for their daughter? The auctioneer got the message.

"6.75 million dollars." Now, it was a head-to-head between the auctioneer and Mr. Blake.

Zelena's desire for the bangle only intensified as the bidding climbed; the higher price tag added to its allure. Yet, undeterred by the notion of getting value for money, the White family could proceed without concern. Blake's family, however, had to exercise more caution. They were not so lavish as to ignore their financial limits. After a short consultation, Mr. and Mrs. Blake agreed to bid again.

Failing to win this round would mean giving up, as stretching their budget too far for a piece of jewellery was impractical. Over 6 million dollars could be allocated towards numerous other ventures, making this purchase seem unwise.

Moreover, it was still being determined if the item's value would be appreciated beyond 6 million dollars.

"6.9 million dollars." The auctioneer responded, "7.2 million dollars." Upon hearing the front row's bid, Mr. Blake reluctantly backed out of the auction.

"Lena, this bangle isn't worth the price. Your father will find you something else later. Let's move on," Zelena stated, though with a hint of regret.

Hiding her disappointment, she smiled and remarked, "Actually, after looking at it for a longer time, I don't find the bangle appealing anymore."

Everyone had eagerly expected the violet bangle to sell for 7.2 million dollars. Yet, just as the auctioneer Yet, was about to finalise the sale, Anton leaned in to share a quiet word with him. Caught off guard, the auctioneer announced, "Sorry, please hold on a moment."

"Mr. White has pointed out that the number is deemed unlucky. He proposes rounding it up to 7.5million. And considering we've already reached such a high figure, why not elevate it to 7.8 million dollars?" The bid of 7.8 million dollars was Anton and Irene's unique way to demonstrate their affection for their daughter. The crowd was utterly amazed.

"He's increasing the amount himself? Remarkable. There's no need for a bidding war if one can set the price," the attendees whispered.

For the auctioneer, who was experiencing such a scenafor the first time, this voluntary hike in the price was astonishing. The face of the auction house owner, observing from the sidelines, was lit up with a grin. This act underscored the belief that the business community in Hoiten is notably superstitious, a belief that Anton exemplified perfectly! Sitting in the back row, Zelena found the offer of 7.8 million dollars staggering. How could someone be so highly wealthy? She wished her parents could afford such extravagance.