As it was rare to hear Arielle giving a compliment, it spoke volumes about the sculptor's artistry.
Terry, who considered himself an authority of the school's rich history, hastened to inform Arielle of its origins at the sight of her piqued interest. “This sculpture is made by an alumnus of Jadeborough University, Master Nicholas Leigh. He is now the best sculptor in the country.
I see.
Every one of this university's alumni is a talented individual, it seems. What a shame that a teacher like Donovan might have stifled some of their potentials.
As Marcus gave an introduction to the piece and its creator, some of the students in the crowd began to nod off At long last, the bid for the sculpture began.
“The bid will start off at two million.
Kindly be informed that only bids in increments of a hundred thousand will be accepted. Let the auction begin!”
As he spoke, the ushers scurried to hand out paddles to the parents. The flutter of movement within the auditorium roused the students out of their drowsiness.
As most of the students of Jadeborough University came from affluent families, two million was not considered an exorbitant sum.
Cecilia lost no time in making an impression. “Two and a half million!” she cried, waving her paddle frantically.
“Pfft!” Somebody in the crowd snorted in derision. “Is she an idiot?”
“Is that Wendy's mother? Is she actively trying to make a fool out of herself?”
As the mockery was made purposefully audible, Wendy lowered her head in embarrassment.
I should not have asked Mom to come!
Susanne was amused. “Mrs. Greene, it appears that your bid is causing some jest among the students. Would you like to revise your offer?”
Cecilia raised her paddle again while blushing furiously. “Three million!”
Three million for a Leigh was as much as pieces of this caliber would generally go, as Nicholas was only thirty years of age. Though he was undoubtedly talented, he was still considered inexperienced. Cecilia was confident that the piece would skyrocket in value as his reputation as a master craftsman would solidify in the coming years.
As Susanne was seated right beside her, Cecilia did not dare go small in her bids.
Suddenly, a clear voice rang out. “Four million!”
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