The auction took place in a small palace that only someone prone to understatements could've called a mansion. It had all things a palace should have: palisades, columns, a garden, and, of course, servants and guards.
And, today, guests as well. I and JJ were greeted and led inside towards the by one of the many people whose only purpose today seemed to be guiding all the arrivals. There were so many of the people who came to the auction's opening, too… Much more than I expected.
With a sudden sharpness, I realised that this was nothing like the modest galas I accompanied by dad at. I fought nerves by clutching tighter at JJ's elbow. He, contrary to me, looked as calm as ever, if only a slightest bit tense. I didn't miss the way he scanned our surroundings as we walked.
