Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 2369

Even Valerie could not figure out what Andrew was up to at this point, muttering, "What the hell is this bastard trying to do?"

Sergio's voice turned ice cold. "Not bad. Fine then, let me see just how deep your pockets go… 500 million dollars! Do you still have the guts to bid against me?"

Inside Suite No. 3, Andrew just laughed. He cleared his throat and replied, "I'm afraid my wallet has reached its limit. Congratulations, Mr. Harding Senior. I don't dare bid any further."

Sergio's bidding price was actually very reasonable for two eighth-grade Divine Pills, and Andrew knew when to quit while he was ahead. He understood that Sergio was not someone easily fooled. If he kept pushing the bidding higher, there was a real risk that Sergio would simply drop out, which would completely backfire on his plan.

From the beginning, Andrew's only goal had never been to antagonize anyone. He simply wanted to ensure his pills sold for as high a price as possible so he could walk away with more money.

Elsie confirmed the bid multiple times before finally smiling. "Congratulations, Mr. Harding Senior. These two eight-grade Divine Pills are now yours."

However, Sergio's face showed no signs of satisfaction. Instead, his brow furrowed deeply, and his eyes flickered with a dangerous glint.

He muttered coldly, "That ungrateful brat just played me for a fool. Fine. Once this auction's over, we'll see just how many lives he's got."

Sergio had quickly realized what had happened. He had been deliberately manipulated into bidding higher, and the other party had essentially strong-armed him into overpaying.

While 500 million meant nothing to him financially, he still felt the sting of being outmaneuvered. More importantly, after he had already revealed his identity and status, this person still refused to show him proper respect. That was something he simply could not tolerate.

If every Tom, Dick, and Harry could come along and disrespect a family head whenever they pleased, then what was the point of his position?

The next two items up for auction were both exceptional pieces. The first was a combat sword crafted using a special technique, clearly marked as requiring at least the level of a martial saint to wield properly. The second item was a cultivation manual of Earthly-tier quality.

Andrew was not particularly interested in the combat sword since he did not engage in actual warfare. While it was certainly a fine weapon, he had no use for it, so he remained silent.

Andrew felt a headache coming on. It seemed his earlier actions had stirred up considerable resentment among the crowd.

Looking back at how the auction had unfolded, it was clear that nearly everyone's hostility was now directed at him.

Still, that was fine.

"350 million," Andrew said calmly.

Benny snorted. "380 million. If you've got the guts, keep going!"

Andrew leaned back and replied coolly, "400 million. But if you raise it again, I'm out."