Chapter 26
Chapter 26 An Invitation
Suzanna eyed several pieces of jewelry, all of which Carson bid on for her without hesitation. He also bid where on an item for Elana as a gesture of apology. However, his gaze kept drifting toward the back rous
Melody sat. He noticed she remained unmoved, as if uninterested in any of the auction items. A hint of disdain flickered in his eyes. To him, Melody was nothing more than an uncultured country bumpkin, incapable of recognizing the value of such exquisite items.
“The next item up for auction is an invitation to the Golden Financial Summit in Maycrest, with the bidding price starting at one hundred thousand.”
Maycrest’s annual Golden Financial Summit was a prestigious event in the global financial industry, attended by numerous listed companies–and–financial institutions. However, getting an invitation to this elite event was a rare privilege, especially for smaller companies. Despite the limited availability, one or two entry tickets were auctioned off each year. However, on this particular evening, most guests were prominent figures and had little interest in the invitation.
When the bidding reached three hundred fifty thousand, Melody made her move. Aware of the past price, she raised her auction number and declared, “Four hundred thousand.”
All eyes turned towards her, including Suzanna, who suddenly understood Melody’s purpose. Melody had possessed Timothy’s USB drive containing the financial plan, so Suzanna couldn’t fathom why she was interested in the invitation. Regardless of Melody’s intention, Suzanna was determined not to let Melody have it. She could always bestow upon Melody what she obtained herself, but Melody was only deserving of what she discarded.
“Carson, why does Mel also want an invitation to the financial summit?” Suzanna anxiously clutched Carson’s sleeve, her eyes filled with perplexity.
Carson instantly grew impatient. “Also? Must she compete against you for everything? She already stole the USB drive not only did she not learn her lesson, but she also wants to cause trouble again?”
Suzanna smiled up at Carson, “Please don’t blame Mèl. Perhaps she simply wishes to contribute to Tim’s company. She studies finance as well; maybe she can shine at the summit.”
Carson’s expression turned ghastly. “She’s nothing but a thief. She’s not qualified to attend the summit.”
In his eyes, Melody not only caused trouble in school but was also uncouth. Allowing her to attend such an upscale event would only bring disgrace to the Shield family and potentially cause trouble for Timothy. Determined to prevent this, Carson raised his bidding card and declared, “Five hundred thousand.”
Melody furrowed her brows. In her previous life, the person who bid five hundred thousand for the invitation was certainly not Carson. It seemed her rebirth had triggered a chain reaction.
Andrew’s expression soured as well. He glanced at Melody and inquired, “Are you gonna continue? If you’re confident about the summit, I can increase the budget to a million.”
Andrew remained composed, displaying his great trust in Melody. Her sharp wit and astute tactics reminded him of Martin. She was truly the sister Martin had personally raised.
Melody gritted her teeth. It wasn’t about the money, but she was disgusted by Carson’s actions. “Five hundred ten thousand.”
“Six hundred thousand.” Carson followed.
With each additional ten thousand Melody added, Carson rounded it up to the next hundred thousand. They engaged in fierce competition until Carson finally made a bold move. “One million!”
This time, Melody chose not to follow suit, as it would only result in a loss for her. She gazed at Carson, who was bewildered, realizing he had spent a million to acquire an invitation that held no value for him.
“C–Carson, this is too expensive!”
Suzanna was dumbfounded. Carson had just spent a million on a similar invitation that Timothy already owned. How ridiculous!
Nonetheless, Suzanna would fight over whatever Melody desired. When the host handed the invitation card to her, she wore a surprised and shy expression.
Carson glanced at Suzanna and forced a smile. “Suzie, it’s worth it as long as you’re happy!”
But deep down, he felt uneasy. It appeared like a deliberate setup, yet he couldn’t express his bitterness.
In the hall on the second floor, Edward’s cold gaze fell on Melody’s slightly disappointed expression. He had the urge to comfort her.
Holding the five invitation cards sent to him by the organizers, he felt his heart squeezed. His brows furrowed as he said in a deep voice, “Bernard, pass these cards to Melody after the auction.”
Suzanna had her brother’s support, but Melody, you have my support! You don’t have to envy anyone. Whatever you desire, I will give them to you. As long as you behave… and cure my illness!
Meanwhile, Bernard was rendered speechless. If only Mr. Moore had revealed his true intention toward Ms. Tucker.