I Inherited Trillions, Now What?

Chapter 43 Auction

David leaned casually against his Aston Martin Victor, the phone pressed to his ear as he dialed Catherine Lancaster's number. It rang twice before her poised voice answered.

"David, this is unexpected," Catherine said. "What's going on?"

"I hear you're in New York," David replied, his tone warm but playful. "You know what tonight is, don't you?"

Catherine sighed softly. "David, I'm busy. Another time, perhaps."

"Busy?" David feigned mock disbelief. "Catherine, it's the Express Auction. You can't miss it. Besides..." he let the suspense linger before delivering the punchline, "even Alexander is coming."

There was a pause on the other end. When Catherine finally spoke, her tone was lighter, almost amused. "Alexander Blackwell is going to an auction? Now that's something I can't miss. Fine, I'll be there."

David grinned triumphantly, but before he could respond, the call ended with a sharp click. Lowering the phone, he turned toward Alexander, who stood stoically beside him.

"Great news," David declared. "We're all going together."

He glanced at his wrist, admiring the brilliance of his Jacob & Co. Billionaire Watch. The 189 carats of Akosha diamonds shimmered under the sunlight, an 18-million-dollar testament to his extravagance. "It's 11 already," he said, straightening. "The auction starts at 12. It's being held at Hudson Heights, one of the most exclusive spots in the city."

Alexander's dark eyes flicked toward him. "And how exactly are we getting there?"

David smirked and gestured at his Aston Martin. "Obviously, my car. I don't trust you to drive me."

David glanced at it, his eyebrows lifting in approval. "Nice ride," he commented, stepping out of the Aston Martin.

Alexander followed, his sharp gaze scanning the area as they approached the entrance. The night promised more than just extravagant purchases—it was a reunion of old friends and a test of Alexander's entry into a world he rarely indulged in.

The sleek, obsidian-black Rolls-Royce Boat Tail pulled up in front of Hudson Heights, its understated yet striking design commanding attention. As one of the most exclusive luxury SUVs ever created, with a price tag of $28 million, it was a symbol of rarity, tailored for those accustomed to the pinnacle of sophistication a car worthy of who was driving it.

As the door opened, Nathaniel Rockefeller stepped out, his perfectly tailored charcoal-gray suit exuding quiet power. His polished demeanor was one of effortless control, a man used to the weight his family name carried in any room.

Following closely, a crimson Bentley Mulliner Bacalar pulled in behind, its radiant scarlet finish catching the soft glow of the estate's grand lighting. From it emerged Daniel DuPont, his platinum hair slicked back, his piercing blue eyes scanning the surroundings with practiced precision.

A third vehicle, the striking silver Aston Martin DBR22, slid into position last, its low profile and aerodynamic design epitomizing refinement. Madeleine Astor stepped out gracefully, her silver evening gown flowing as she adjusted a platinum bracelet adorning her wrist.

The trio exchanged glances and brief nods of acknowledgment before Nathaniel's sharp gaze settled on David Morgan and Alexander Blackwell standing near the entrance. The smirk on Nathaniel's face faded, replaced by a look of evident displeasure.

Striding toward them with purpose, Nathaniel's tone was measured but carried a distinct edge. "Morgan, you're aware this auction is strictly for old-money families, aren't you?" His eyes narrowed slightly as he turned to Alexander. "What's he doing here?"

Alexander stood motionless, dressed in a meticulously tailored black suit, his presence as commanding as it was effortless. His black eyes met Nathaniel's cold stare, unflinching and unreadable.

Without a word, a subtle grin flickered across Alexander's face—a faint but deliberate expression that spoke volumes, hinting at a quiet amusement Nathaniel found irritating.

The tension in the air grew palpable, Nathaniel's disdain clashing with Alexander's unshakable confidence.@@@@