The Road to Rebirth Her Fresh Start and His Late Sorrow

You could say Nancy had practically vanished from the world.

Cyrus' eyes widened, immediately catching the underlying meaning in Michael's words. Instinctively, his gaze fell on Nancy. "Nancy..."

Nancy cut him off with a cold laugh, "Mr. Gordon, either focus on the auction or take your leave." Judson nodded in agreement. "Exactly, don't waste the time of those genuinely here for the charity auction."

As Judson's voice faded, security guards standing behind Michael took a few threatening steps forward. Their intention was clear without needing words.

Sarah tugged at Cyrus' sleeve. "Cyrus, let's just sit down, okay?"

Even though she was the daughter of one of the four prominent families, Michael was the head of the Ferguson family, known for his ruthless tactics. With the Allen family having fallen, everyone in their social circle was on edge.

As for Nancy, Sarah glanced at her, unable to hide her deep disdain. She couldn't believe that Lena was actually Cyrus' wife. Cyrus would never mistake his own wife, she thought. For now, Michael's presence might spare Nancy from any immediate trouble, but later...

Once Sarah and Cyrus took their seats, the room quieted significantly.

"Nancy, don't waste your time on that jerk," Judson said, grabbing Nancy's hand. "He claims he came to Ardenweald for you, but look at him now, bringing another woman to the auction. It's disgusting."

Nancy's eyes were filled with contempt as she listened to Judson's sharp words. "That's just how he is." She had known the type of person Cyrus was for a long time.

Watching the exchange between Judson and Nancy, Cyrus was nearly fuming. If only this wasn't Ardenweald, not his turf, he'd make sure Judson paid for his audacity.

As the room's lights suddenly dimmed, the host stepped onto the stage, microphone in hand. "Thank you

all for joining us at the auction despite your busy schedules," he began. "While many of you are seasoned participants, let me briefly go over the process..."

As the host spoke, Judson leaned over and whispered, "Nancy, can I really bid on whatever catches my eye?"

"Yeah," Nancy nodded, the movement so slight it was almost imperceptible.

The host's speech concluded, and the first item was brought out-a Juliet rose valued at three million dollars. Immediately, flower enthusiasts began to bid.

"Five million," Cyrus announced, raising his paddle and glaring at Nancy.

He was determined to win the flower and gift it to Nancy.

Judson smirked and raised his paddle as well. "Eight million."noveldrama

Nancy paused, her gaze shifting to Judson. Their eyes met, and Judson flashed a mischievous grin. Nancy quickly understood and didn't stop him.

Sure enough, Cyrus scoffed. "Ten million! I'm getting this flower, so keep going if you dare!"

Judson smirked, "Nah, I'm out. You can have it for ten million."

Cyrus was speechless.

The room fell silent.

Judson leaned closer to Nancy and said, "Sure, it's an expensive flower, but it's not worth that much. If someone wants to be a sucker, let them!"

Nancy chuckled and nodded. "Makes sense."

Cyrus gritted his teeth, fully aware that Judson was provoking him.

The auction continued with several more items. Each time Cyrus placed a bid, Judson would counter, only to drop out after one round, leaving Cyrus frustrated.

"He's doing it on purpose, Cyrus, you have to keep your cool!" Sarah squeezed Cyrus' hand tightly.

Cyrus nodded, his expression grim. "I know." But he couldn't help himself; every time he saw the taunting look in Judson's eyes, his rationality slipped away.

Then, the next item was announced.

"Here we have a premium crimson pigment, renowned for its clarity and pure color. Starting bid is one million."

Almost as soon as the host finished speaking, Nancy raised her paddle. "One million."

This color would be perfect for the rose crown she was designing.

Typically, not many people bid on pigments unless they were in design work.

Judson and Cyrus stayed out of it, but just as the host was about to close the bidding, Sarah spoke up

with a smile. "Such a rare color! My family has some talented designers too. Three million."