The auction (3)

After ensuring Vera had swept over the whole hall with the camera, hopefully registering the faces well enough for identification, Ethan relaxed on his chair and focused on the auction.

He was curious about some of the items, but, after confirming everything was original as they presented it, he didn't know what question to ask.

They weren't going to buy anything, but he had made a few offers to look less suspicious. He had also caught the glances one of the security guards would throw at Vera.

Was it just because she was beautiful, or was there more to it? Either way, she wasn't getting out of Ethan's view.

«And this is all for tonight,» the presenter said. «Unfortunately, we don't have more. But we will be back next week with a new collection. And our best piece will be very appealing. I'll tell you in advance so that you warn your offshore accounts!»