Each time the price neared the systems revealed worth, he adjusted his bid with expert precision, never letting the tension show on his face. His eyes, however, were sharp, watching every flicker of frustration pass over Joe Hart's face.
Valerie's bid was tactical, distracting the others from realizing just how coordinated this silent dance was. Finally, the moment came. The price edged dangerously close to the true worth, the competition bristling with last-minute aggression. Joe Hart's jaw tightened in frustration and more relevant irritation.
Maximus raised his paddle one last time with a x calm and hurried demeanor, yet his gaze locked with Joe's in a way that made it clear there would be no victory for anyone else tonight.
"Sold!"
The gavels crack was final, slicing through the air. A few murmurs rippled through the crowd, speculation already forming about the young man who bested some of the city's sharpest bidders twice in a single night.
