The charity auction had already begun.
A renowned domestic auctioneer was onstage introducing the origins and prices of the lots.
They were mainly jewelry, or handbags and clothing favored by some socialite, or antique paintings and other artworks. Their prices varied, with the lowest starting at tens or hundreds of thousands and the highest reaching several million. But the price was secondary. Everyone knew the auction proceeds would go to charity, giving them a different significance.
To people in this circle, gaining prestige and connections mattered far more than this little bit of money.
"Next is a charity lot sponsored by Mr. Chen Mo: a diamond bracelet. Jewelry experts have authenticated it. It has thirteen flawless D-grade diamonds, each weighing 1.4 carats. The numbers alone show how extraordinary it is. The starting price is four million."
"5.2 million."
"5.3 million."
"..."
"8 million."
Just as everyone was competing for the bracelet, a voice interrupted them. Looking over, they saw Chen Mo emerging from a private room.
Wang Qilin and Dai Houlong also came out from inside, smiling as though they had gained quite a lot. They returned to their seats at the main table, though beneath their smiles lay displeasure no one else could see.
"Did they reach a deal or not?"
"Not sure. Judging by their expressions, it seems they reached some kind of cooperation."
The guests whispered among themselves, speculating about what the two sides had discussed, but none could figure it out.
The main table was occupied by influential figures. At this moment, it was inappropriate for them to ask Chen Mo what had happened. Those matters were not theirs to interfere with, so they quietly watched the charity auction.
"Have some tea."
As soon as Chen Mo sat down, Zhao Min handed him a cup of