Julian stared at Kevin for a moment, genuinely surprised. He had not expected Kevin to bid against him.
The auctioneer looked around the room.
"Two million. Do I hear two point one?"
No paddle rose.
The bidder who had competed with Julian moments earlier seemed to reconsider. Everyone in the room knew Kevin's reputation. Once he decided he wanted something, he rarely backed down simply because the price increased.
The auctioneer waited a few more seconds before bringing down the hammer.
"Sold. Two million."
A round of polite applause followed.
Julian leaned back in his chair, staring at Kevin in disbelief.
"You actually bid against me?"
Kevin ignored him.
The assistant soon brought the elegant diamond earrings down from the stage, she approached Kevin, who simply gestured toward Loretta.
Loretta looked at the small jewelry box in surprise. She turned toward Kevin. "These are for me?"
Kevin gave a slight nod.
