Bidding for Her

A collective gasp ripped through the massive auction hall. Every head snapped toward the sound. Preston stood from his seat beside Vivian, his posture relaxed but commanding.

"Mr. Cole, you..." Stella trailed off, her eyes wide with confusion.

Preston ignored her. He projected his steady voice across the crowded room. "Ms. Hayes, I know you want to wear this for your wedding. But I plan to marry