"Lot One, with a starting price of 100 million. The bidding begins now."
The auctioneer launched into a detailed description of the land's location and its potential value for future development, hoping to drive up the price and increase his commission.
The bids in the room came thick and fast.
But Jasmine couldn't care less. Her mind was elsewhere, and she couldn't focus on what was happening.
She stole glances at Yiqin Chu, hesitating to speak. Her eyes were filled with a turmoil of emotions.
Jasmine bit her lip, struggling to find the right words.
The man had long noticed her unease. His long legs were slightly bent, lean and powerfully straight. His hand, holding the teacup, had well - defined knuckles. From his hair to his toes, he exuded an air of indifference. His jet - black eyes were as cold as a pair of unsheathed knives.
He watched the scene like a detached observer. In contrast to the red - faced bidders, he seemed completely uninterested, not even bothering to lift an eyelid.
Before long, the first two plots of land were sold.
Now, it was time for the third one, the land on West Hill.
The scenery there was breathtaking,
a natural haven for a resort. Back in the day, the Yin family had carefully chosen this location after thorough surveys. It wasn't just a graveyard; it was where Manni Yin was laid to rest. She had adored the tranquility of the mountains and waters, much like her own gentle and refined nature.
Most people were unaware of this story. All they saw was a highly lucrative piece of real - estate.
"With a starting price of 200 million, the bidding for this lot commences," the auctioneer announced.
The atmosphere in the hall immediately became electric. Everyone was enthusiastic about this plot, and Jasmine could feel the palpable excitement.
Her eyes grew moist as she turned to look at Yiqin Chu, only to find him already looking at her.
"250 million! The Chu Consortium," Yingyao announced, raising the bidder's sign at Yiqin Chu's instruction.
Jasmine's eyes widened in surprise. She opened her mouth, but no words came out.
The Chu Consortium had made a bid. Many smaller families immediately backed off. They didn't dare to compete with Yiqin Chu.
Once he set his sights on something, he always got it.
The financial might of the Chu Consortium was well - known,
and they knew better than to pit themselves against him.
However, some others were reluctant to give up. This was a golden opportunity for their companies to take a giant leap forward.
They had already envisioned the perfect use for the land. With such a promising prospect in sight, how could they let it go?
"260 million!"
"280 million! The Wang family bids. Any higher?"
"300 million!"
The auctioneer's face flushed with excitement.
As the price soared, the number of bidders gradually decreased until only a few remained.
While others were sweating profusely, Yiqin Chu seemed as calm as if he were simply sipping water.
"350 million! The Wen family! 350 million. Do I hear any higher bids?"
The hall grew quieter, filled only with the sound of nervous breathing. The Wen family was taking a huge risk, trying to snatch the prize right from under Yiqin Chu's nose.
"Yiqin Chu..."
Jasmine's palms were sweaty as she nervously tugged at his suit sleeve. "You won't give up on this land, will you?"
Better he should win it than anyone else.
"Going once for 350 million!"
He remained silent.
Jasmine pleaded urgently, "The land is about to go to the Wen family."
Paying 350 million for a plot of land wasn't excessive, but considering the high unit price of the land on West Hill, which wasn't particularly large, it was a significant sum.
"Jasmine, let's make a deal."
The last thread of her patience snapped at the sound of the man's cold voice. Never mind the deal. As long as he would buy the land, she would agree to anything.
"Okay, whatever the deal is, I agree."
The most important thing now was to prevent the land from falling into the wrong hands.
Suddenly, a faint smile appeared on the man's otherwise indifferent face. He casually raised the bidder's sign.
"The Chu Consortium, 500 million!"