Page 164

I force myself to focus.

The Sheriff turns the page. “The successful buyer will be required to tender payment in cash in accordance with the notice of sale.” Then he clears his throat. “Opening bid is two hundred and fifty thousand.”

My pulse leaps.

It’s started.

Luca clutches the briefcase closer to his heart.

“Four hundred thousand is your highest bid,” I whisper to Paige.

She nods, determined.

I wish that I could tell my Omega to bid as high as she likes.

But that is as much as I could raise in one night.

I can’t go higher. I don’t have it.

Does anyone else here?

Does Devlin?

Devlin steps closer, predatory.

“Three hundred thousand,” he calls confidently.

Damn it.

That’s high just to begin with.

He’s not messing around. He doesn’t glance around at us. He is fully focused on the Sheriff.

“Three hundred thousand,” the Sheriff repeats.

“Three hundred and twenty,” Paige calls.

Hearing her voice, Devlin turns around in shock. “What the hell, Paige? If you had that type of money, then you wouldn’t have lost the inn in the first place. You’re embarrassing yourself. Shut up and stop⁠—”

“You heard me.” Paige tilts up her chin. “Three hundred and twenty.”

“You can’t bid,” Devlin splutters.

“You ain’t going to start an argument on my steps.” The Sheriff’s dominant growl silences Devlin, who cringes back. “This is a public sale. She can bid.”

“That’s bullshit…”

“Interrupt again, and you’re the one I’m throwing out.”

Devlin glares at the Sheriff but nods. “Yes, Sir.”

The Sheriff looks at Paige. “So, I have three hundred and twenty, ma’am.”

“Three hundred and fifty,” Devlin snarls like he’s won already.

The crowd mutters.

The shoppers have stopped and are watching this battle now.