f her seat, waiting for a call from an old friend who had promised to bring her news about the elusive collectio

There was a momentary hush as she hung onto every word Brian had to say. Her expression sh

a Greens' coveted collection was located, and it was slated to go under the hammer in a mere six hours. Without a

f-white neon sign, "Marson and Sons," that beckoned curious souls to explore within. Abigail stepped inside, her

ller. I have a keen interest in a specific artwork you have here-piece number

keyboard. "Ah, you must be here for the auction," he remarked, his voice c

the time. "It's 2:05," she replied. "Yes, I'm well aware

them, offering a place for Abigail to bide her time. A grin played on Abigai

quiries or made unrelated purchases. With just twenty minutes left until the auction's commencement, the only indivi

e painting unshakable. She was willing to dip into her savings to secure it if need be. H

yes met for a lingering moment before he turned away to address the receptionist. "Hello, my name is Drake," he anno

him-not just due to his impressive stature, but also because his gold watch and expensive suit hinted at substantial financial means. Trouble loomed

was exquisite and it was normal for othe

His choice of attire was calculated, designed to intimidate rival bidders and discourage them fro

ed into a scowl-her disdain for him apparent. A soft chuckle echoed within his thoughts as he dec

Abigail retorted with a sly

nt. "I hope you're not trying to i

il's eye remained. "And wha

head-on. "Now I'm even more determined to take that painting home," he declared with a glint of comp

ively. "You won't," Abigail retorte

ul challenge. He was having a lot of fun. "Then can I

ixture of annoyance and embarrassment swirling with

vident vexation. "How about your number t

is if you won and I wanted to make a d

a pen from his coat. He began to jot down a figure-a sum of money so substantial that Abigail's eyes widened in disbelief. It

ef as she stared at the exorbitant amount he had written. She

't you give me your number now? I have a feeling I won't be needing the painting very soon anyway. We can discuss a p

sive artwork only to dispose of it? Was he some kind of eccentric collector? She frantically scanned the room for him before rememb

y, yeah, I'm at the auction. It's sparsely attended, so I don't think we'll have a problem... Yes, I know, I'll make sure

," Drake hurriedly concluded the call, trying t

den, high-pitched voice that rang out within the men's res

t her. "Are you aware