Bidders both in the room and on the phone began placing their bids. The price climbed steadily—$1,150,000, $1,300,000, $1,500,000. Star expertly managed the excitement, her voice rising with each new bid.

"$1,500,000," she declared, pausing for effect. "Any higher bids? Going once, going twice... Sold for $1,500,000!"

The room erupted in applause, and Star lightened the mood with a witty remark. "And that's just the beginning, folks! We have many more treasures in store for you today."

As the auction continued, Ivan and the other executives mingled with the VIP guests. Ivan engaged in polite conversation, discussing business, upcoming projects, and the success of the event. He kept an eye on Callistus, who was standing off to the side at the stage, looking a bit out of place.

Excusing himself from the VIPs, Ivan walked over to him. "You doing okay?" he asked.

Callistus nodded, but Ivan could tell he was nervous. "Come on, stick with me," Ivan said, placing a comforting hand on Callistus's shoulder.

They walked around together, Ivan making sure Callistus felt included. 

"My friend," Ryan said, walking up to Ivan and taking his hand.

Ivan, who had been looking at Callistus with a genuine smile, turned to Ryan with a more forced one. "How have you been?" he asked, maintaining politeness. 

"Falling apart," Ryan replied. "But we're lucky to have you coming to save us soon!"

Ivan nodded. "We can talk about this matter later," he said, gently pushing Ryan's arm away, his other hand in his pocket, something clicking. 

"No need for the gun," Ryan laughed before he walked away.

Callistus didn't notice the exchange and started to walk away when he saw Ivan with a VIP.

Ivan quickly caught up to Callistus. As they walked around, a woman approached them with a surprised look on her face. "Callistus? Is that you?"

Callistus looked at her, puzzled. "I'm sorry, do I know you?"

"It's Tiara! We went to college together!" she exclaimed.

Callistus tried to recall but couldn't remember. He glanced at Ivan, who was smiling at the interaction. 

"Go ahead," Ivan whispered to him. 

"But I don't know what to say to her," Callistus answered in a whisper tone too.

Tiara noticed the look and chuckled. "Oh, I see. You two make a great couple."

Callistus's face turned red. "No, it's not like that," he stammered. "Ivan's my boss."

Ivan laughed, "Don't worry about it, Callistus. It's good to see you reconnecting with old friends."

Tiara continued, "Well, I'm glad to see you're doing well. We should catch up sometime."

Callistus nodded, still feeling a bit embarrassed but grateful for Ivan's support. As the auction proceeded, Ivan made sure Callistus felt comfortable, engaging him in conversations and introducing him to more guests.

Ivan's encouraging presence helped Callistus navigate through the event smoothly. They shared light conversations, and Ivan occasionally made jokes to ease Callistus's nerves. 

—

"Just look at those two," Isabell said to Myiesha. "Ivan never acted like this since I met him, have you?"

Myiesha shook her head, "Me neither, it's something about Callistus that makes him be himself." 

"I think I agree-"

"Hello!" A voice said, surprising them before getting a hug from the back. 

"Shantel?" Isabell recognised the voice. 

"Miss me?" Shantel said. 

Myiesha brushes herself off after being freed from her embrace. She noticed the beautiful dress she was wearing before another woman in a suit stepped behind her holding her. 

"Guys, this is Fea," Shantel said. "My baby." 

Fea smiled before giving Shantel a peck on her cheek. "Nice to meet you," She shook the COO and CFO's hands before turning back to her lover. "Is there anything else you want? It's ending in an hour." 

"Next, we have a rare collection of earrings, a ring, and a necklace made of white gold, diamonds, and teardrop blue sapphires," Star announced, her voice filled with excitement. "The starting bid is $2,900,000."

Bidders eagerly raised their paddles. "$3,100,000," one called out.

Shantel had found interest in it before running with Fea to their seats.

"$3,150,000," another followed quickly.

The bids climbed steadily. "$3,200,000... $3,300,000... $3,350,000..."

Star kept the energy high, encouraging more bids. "Do I hear $4,000,000?"

A bidder in the back raised their paddle. "4 million!" Fea shouted as she raised her number.

The room was buzzing with excitement. "$4,500,000?" Star prompted.

"Going once... Going twice... Sold for $4,000,000!" Star declared, bringing the hammer down with a flourish.

The room erupted in applause, and the winning bidder beamed with pride. Star smiled, "Congratulations to our winning bidder. This stunning collection is now yours."

As the evening progressed, the auction reached its final item. Star took the stage once more, her energy infectious. "For our last item, we have a simple pearl choker, starting at $700,000."

The bidding war was intense, with bids coming in rapidly. The price soared, and the room was electric with anticipation. Finally, Star brought the hammer down. "Sold for $950,000!"

Applause filled the room, and Star closed the auction with a cheerful thank you to everyone.

—

Ivan turned to Callistus. "I understand if you find today much interesting," he said, his tone sincere. 

Callistus smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment and belonging. "It's fine, Ivan. It means a lot."

As they walked out together, the city lights twinkling in the night, Callistus felt more confident and ready for whatever came next, knowing he had the support of Ivan and the rest of the team. Ivan sent Callistus back to his apartment, smiling before leaving.

Callistus checked his phone. "Shit!" he yelled. He had completely forgotten about his client. He checked his messages and saw the time set for their meeting: 11 PM. He glanced at his watch, realising he had an hour and a half before the appointment.

"I'll pick you up later," Mia messaged him.

He laid on his bed, taking a few minutes to rest before changing into something more appropriate for the meeting. He hopped into Mia's car when she arrived, and she dropped him off at a pub. Despite it being a weekday night, the place was bustling with people.

Inside the pub, Callistus spotted a man who matched the description given for the meeting. He sat down next to him and ordered a sparkling drink. The man pulled out a photo and handed it to Callistus.

Callistus took a closer look at the picture... Ivan?