An Understated Dominance - Chapter 376

As the daughter of the Grant family, Jayla knew that managing two billion dollars in cash was tough. If she needed more, she would have to ask her family for help.

“2.1 billion dollars,” Roderick said calmly.

Jayla clenched her teeth and shouted, “2.5 billion!” Her eyes flashed with determination. No matter what, she was determined to keep her pride today, even if it meant borrowing money.

Roderick kept smiling and raised the bid, “2.6 billion.” His nickname, Big Buck Brooks, was well deserved; money didn’t really matter to him.

“Three billion!” Jayla shouted, her anger boiling over. She looked fierce, like a lioness ready to pounce.

Roderick raised his paddle again, ready to bid more, but Dustin stopped him.

“Let her have it,” Dustin said firmly.

“What?” Roderick was taken aback. “Mr. Rhys, don’t you want this item? If it’s too expensive, I can handle it.”

“It’s not about the money,” Dustin replied, shaking his head. He was focused on the item on stage, his expression filled with regret. “This isn’t a thousand-year green lotus. It’s not useful to me.”

“What? Are you saying it’s a fake?” Roderick couldn’t hide his surprise. Very few people would dare to auction off fake items, knowing the trouble it could cause.

Dustin shook his head again. “I wouldn’t call it fake. It’s just not old enough. I’ve looked closely at it. It’s a beautiful green lotus, but it’s only 900 years old. It needs another hundred years to become a true thousand-year green lotus.”

Even though the difference between a 900-year green lotus and a thousand-year one was just a hundred years, the effects were quite different. Dustin could only refine the Longevitum once, and any mistake could cost him dearly.

huge red gemstone was brought onto the stage. The crowd gasped in awe at its brilliance.

Roderick’s disappointment lingered as he watched Jayla celebrate her win. “It’s just a 900-year lotus,” he muttered under his breath. He had hoped to impress others, but now that seemed impossible.

The auctioneer’s voice broke his thoughts. “Ms. Grant has bid three billion. Is there anyone willing to bid higher?” Roderick frowned and stayed silent. Jayla noticed and smirked, thinking he was embarrassed because he couldn’t keep up with her.

“Why so quiet, Roderick? Come on, challenge me! I want to see what you can do!” A proud smile spread across her face.

Dustin, standing nearby, responded casually, “It’s fine. If you really want it, Ms. Grant, go ahead.”

Jayla laughed, “Oh, is that how it is? If you can’t afford it, just admit it! You really are thick-skinned!”

“Do what you want. If it makes you happy,” Dustin replied, uninterested in arguing. This only frustrated Jayla more; she wanted him to show some defeat, but his calmness was driving her crazy.

In the end, Jayla won the bidding for the 900-year green lotus, paying an outrageous price.

“Next up is something truly special,” the auctioneer announced. “We have a natural, uncut red gemstone. It’s never been processed and boasts unmatched quality in cut and clarity. Take a look!” As he spoke, the dazzling gemstone was displayed, capturing everyone’s attention.

A small, blood-red gemstone was placed on the stage.

“What?” Dustin exclaimed as he saw the gemstone. His eyes widened in surprise. Just moments before, he felt regret, but now he was filled with energy and excitement.