Chapter 11
Anu-Ms K
Andrea and her team of stylists are getting me ready to be the prized mare on display. I’m super nervous, because this is the part of the event that’s supposed to raise the highest amount. I hear all the auctions going on out there for Jordan’s memorabilia and the loud applause. The kids were great, and the audience was just as great. I was shaken a bit when I saw Daniel sitting in the front row. Our eyes connected. Now, I must go and stand on stage to be auctioned off to the highest bidder.
“Breath,” Andrea says.
I inhale and exhale.
“I’m scared,” I mumble. She comes to stand in front of me, holding my shoulders and grinning in her usual way.
“You got this, and I’m so proud of what you did here tonight.”
I nod.
“What if we don’t get anyone to bid on me?” I let my fear out.
She chuckles and steps back.
“Not with how beautiful and talented you are,” she says in admiration.
I stand when the door opens. ‘No mirrors,’ Andrea and the stylist had said. The stylist pulls the cape off the dress and brings the mirror, and I gasp when I see myself. The dress is white in mermaid style with aesthetic gold trims on lace top and bottom trims of the dress. The whole dress fits my slim figure and enhances my hips. It is well-padded to give my B cup boobs some cleavage that’s well deserved. It’s backless, good thing I wouldn’t be turning. The makeup is natural, hair is styled in bridal updo with chandelier style gold earrings. The ensemble makes me feel beautiful. I have gold heels on that peek when I walk. As I get close to the stage, Andrea pulls me into a hug and puts on my gold mask. I inhale and exhale when Lande announces me. I take slow steps and stand next to her.
“Our mystery lady is beautiful. She speaks three languages, loves to bake, and also enjoys taking walks. But remember whoever wins a date with her also gets ten free lessons with the amazing music teacher of the program.”
The auctioneer comes closer and starts the bid at twenty-five thousand dollars and a few placards rise. I keep my eyes straight and avoid looking at where Daniel is seated. The price goes up to forty-five thousand, then I hear Daniel shout “seventy-five thousand” and the room erupts in gasp. Maggie looks surprised and happy. Cara is sure to get the next ten lessons. Nice play, Uncle Dan. The volunteers go to Daniel.
“Let’s begin the second date,” The auctioneer says.
He begins again and before anyone can bid, Daniels loudly says “seventy-five thousand dollars”. The room erupts as Daniel is encouraged to stand. I step off the stage to the back room.
“And you say he’s not interested?” Jordan teases.
I poke him.
"His niece just gets extra time," I reply and he scoffs, rolling his eyes.
“Okay, if you say so.” He smirks.
I head straight to my room to change, taking the mask off. Andrea squeals in excitement when I return to the room. She makes a tune to 150k win, dancing as she and the stylist help me out of my dress. I put on my simple black dress, take a deep breath then exhale the knowledge that Daniel is coming for me soon.
Chapter 12
Daniel.
The moment I’ve been waiting for is finally here. The mystery woman—my woman—is about to step on the stage. Bruce shifts in his seat next to me, like he’s ready as well. Declan is busy whispering to Anne; she’s giggling like they are alone in the room. My eyes are glued to the stage and the moment the curtain pulls and she walks to the light, with her hips swaying and skin glowing in the white dress that’s probably giving every unmarried man an erection, it certainly is for me. I knew it was time to battle.
Mrs DeMoore talks but I barely listen, until Bruce mutters, “Holy fuck,” like he’s already jerking to her in his fucking head.
I turn a stern look him. “Don’t even think about it,” I command in a deep voice.
“It’s a mystery lady,” he says, like we should all get a chance.
Before I can respond, Declan turns to Bruce.
“I wouldn’t if I were you. Daniel knows exactly who that woman is.” Bruce frowns and lets out a low sound of annoyance.
The bidding starts. I don’t raise my hand, but I see a few people do—bet they want the lesson—and some single guys. When it gets to forty-five, my annoyance or anxiety or eagerness—one of them—gets a hold of me and I shout “seventy-five thousand”, making the room erupt in a gasp.
