Shortly thereafter, the bidding soared to $450 million, with only five individuals remaining engaged in the auction, among them Leo and the gentleman from earlier.
However, it became apparent that none of the five were willing to yield until the bidding reached $500 million, remarked a stout man with a prominent beer belly and standing at a modest 5'4". "Gentlemen, I am Liam Smith, proud proprietor of the Art Hive Gallery. I earnestly hope for your consideration in granting me this opportunity."
Though he uttered few words, his demeanor suggested an attempt to intimidate the remaining four competitors in the bidding. Observing two youths in their mid-20s, along with two mere art enthusiasts seated in the 4th and 6th rows, while he himself was in the 3rd row. Implicitly, he hoped that his seniority would earn him respect from the younger participants.
