Chapter 199

If Kingsley Tech and Ashford Enterprises were collaborating, their chances of winning this bid would skyrocket.

Evelyn Sinclair maintained a composed smile, though unease flickered in her chest. This trip might end in disappointment, but she wasn’t about to surrender without a fight.

She signaled Bennett to continue. $45 billion.

The room fell silent. The real battle had just begun.

Victoria Ashford shot Evelyn a scorching glare before raising her paddle. $48 billion.

Evelyn’s pulse quickened. That was dangerously close to her limit.

Even if Sterling Corporation could afford more, the profit margins would shrink to nothing.

After a brief hesitation, Evelyn met Bennett’s gaze and nodded. $49 billion.

Victoria faltered. Evelyn knew she’d hit their breaking point.

Victoria and Harrison exchanged hushed words before Harrison pulled out his phone. Nathan Blackwood must be getting an update, Evelyn thought.

$49 billion going twice!

Victoria’s paddle shot up again, her expression strained. $49.3 billion!

Evelyn exhaled. She wouldn’t bleed money for pride.

$49.3 billion going twice!

Just as the auctioneer raised his gavel, Sebastian Hart—seated beside Evelyn—spoke.

$50 billion.

Gasps rippled through the crowd. Evelyn gaped at him.

Have you lost your mind?!

Sebastian merely smirked, silent.

Victoria paled. $50 billion was beyond her agreement with Nathan.

$50 billion going once! $50 billion going twice! Sold to Mr. Hart of Hart Industries!

Applause erupted. The prime land now belonged to the Harts.

Sebastian rose gracefully, acknowledging the crowd before striding to the stage. Evelyn and Bennett exchanged stunned glances.

The always-reserved Hart family had just dropped $50 billion on a plot of land? Since when were they interested in real estate?

As congratulations poured in, Evelyn gathered her purse to leave.

A firm hand caught her wrist.

"Leaving so soon?"

Sebastian’s devilish grin was infuriatingly charming. His eyes sparkled like starlight.

Evelyn stiffened, then forced a smile. "Expecting congratulations? $50 billion, Sebastian. Did you even run the numbers?"

He chuckled. "Save them for yourself."

She frowned.

Sebastian leaned in, his breath warm against her ear. "You wanted this land, didn’t you? I’ll sell it to you for $49 billion."

Evelyn froze.

Victoria and Harrison, lingering nearby, overheard. Victoria’s face drained of color.

"Mr. Hart!" she snapped. "You’re not developing this yourself?"

Sebastian turned, his smile lazy. "Not interested. Just buying it for my goddess." He winked at Evelyn.

Victoria trembled. "You—you’re treating corporate funds like a game?!"

Sebastian’s amusement vanished. His voice turned icy. "It’s my family’s money. I don’t need outsiders lecturing me."

Then, softening, he cupped Evelyn’s face.

"Honestly, I’d give it to you for free. But I know you’d protest. So marry me instead." His thumb brushed her cheek. "Everything I have is yours."