The Auction

Aaron frowned but didn't reprimand Christian. Christian, emboldened, felt even more confident. Previously cautious because he thought he was adopted, Christian now acted with impunity, having confirmed his place as a true member of the Lin family.

"Explain your reasoning," Aaron prompted.

"The central location is always the most valuable," Zuri replied.

Aaron chuckled and shook his head slightly. In his mind, a daughter couldn't compare to a son.

Christian smirked, brimming with mockery.

Aaron pointed to several plots on the map. "Christian is right; the best plot is the one along the riverfront, followed by the plot to the left. The one Zuri suggested is decent elsewhere but not ideal for us."

Christian shot Zuri a triumphant glance, which she ignored.

Aaron detailed the pros and cons of each plot and concluded, "Our goal is to secure the riverfront plot."

Christian assured, "Don't worry, Dad. I'll get it done."

"Good," Aaron nodded, looking at both siblings. "You two need to work together."

Though Christian wanted to exclude Zuri, he knew it wasn't possible. Understanding this, he didn't voice his objections.

After leaving the study, Christian told Zuri, "Just sit back and watch during the auction. I'll handle everything. Just don't get in the way."

Zuri glanced at him briefly before heading to her room. Once there, she received a call from Evan.

"Boss, I've arranged everything as you instructed. However, to enter the auction, we need a deposit of one billion yuan."

"I'll transfer the money. During the auction, follow my lead," Zuri instructed.

"Understood."

The auction was held at the Tian'ai Hotel, in the ballroom on the thirteenth floor. Aaron sent Zhang, his secretary, along with a seasoned appraiser to accompany Christian and Zuri. In reality, the appraiser and Zhang had the final say, with Christian there mainly to gain experience and prepare for a future role in the Lin Corporation's leadership.

Upon arrival, many company executives and leaders greeted Zuri warmly, not Christian.

"Zuri, you're becoming more beautiful."

"You're looking better every day, niece."

Christian, sidelined and ignored, clenched his fists in frustration. Despite being the Lin family's future heir, everyone was fawning over Zuri, the outsider. He seethed, vowing they would regret it one day.

Christian sat down in a huff, while Zhang and the appraiser exchanged glances, pretending not to notice. After exchanging pleasantries, Zuri joined Christian.

Christian let out a cold snort, expressing his displeasure. Zuri, uninterested, scanned the room and spotted Evan and his assistant sitting unobtrusively in the back.

The auction began, with the auctioneer first presenting the least desirable plots. Many mid-sized real estate companies participated, but the major players stayed out of the bidding. The two initial plots quickly sold, with one going to a non-real estate company, drawing little interest from the crowd.

As the auction progressed, the properties being auctioned increased in value. When the third-to-last plot came up, Zuri spoke up, "Secretary Zhang, I think we should make a bid."

It was the plot Zuri had previously suggested.

Christian sneered, "Dad already said we're going for Plot 1. Plot 3 may be your favorite, but it's not suitable for the Lin Corporation. Business decisions aren't based on personal preferences. I'll lend you some books to help you understand."

Ignoring his sarcasm, Zuri addressed Zhang, "The competition for Plot 1 will be fierce, and the price will likely exceed our budget. It's better to secure Plot 3 and avoid leaving empty-handed."

Zhang looked to the appraiser, who nodded in agreement. "Ms. Lin's analysis is correct. The final price for Plot 1 might far exceed our expectations, making it difficult to acquire."

Zhang hesitated, unsure, and glanced at Christian. Before they left, Aaron had emphasized giving Christian a chance to participate in decision-making.

Zuri smirked, clearly challenging Christian. He responded firmly, "We're aiming for the best. There's no need to consider Plot 3."

"If the price exceeds our expectations, we'll have nothing to show for it," Zuri countered. "To be safe, we should bid on Plot 3."

"Being overly cautious isn't the Lin Corporation's style."

"Christian, don't act rashly. What if we can't secure it? Can you guarantee we'll get Plot 1?" Zuri taunted.

"Absolutely," Christian declared confidently.

Zuri seemed amused by his confidence. "Remember your words. Let's see if you can deliver."

Christian dismissed her challenge, determined to win the plot.

Seeing the siblings argue, Zhang stepped in to mediate, calming the situation. The two huffed and turned away from each other, while Zhang and the appraiser exchanged resigned looks.

Plot 3 was eventually sold to a prominent real estate company. Plot 2 followed, fetching 157 million yuan, far exceeding the Lin Corporation's estimated budget.

The auctioneer then introduced Plot 1, the highlight of the auction. "The starting bid is 70 million yuan, with a minimum increment of 1 million yuan."

Bidding began immediately.

"75 million, from number 7."

"80 million, from number 12."

"91 million, from number 24."

"98 million, from number 7."

"100 million, from number 10. Any higher offers?"

Finally, Christian raised his paddle.

"130 million, from number 3."

Evan, seated quietly in the corner, raised his paddle.

"150 million, from number 35. Any higher bids?" the auctioneer called out, scanning the room.