Page 132 of Billionaire Bad Boy Auction

EPILOGUE

DEAN

The hum of chatter and clinking glasses filled the grand ballroom as I leaned against the back wall, arms crossed, watching the crowd. One year later, and somehow, I’d let myself get roped into this damn auction again. This was the epitome of being a glutton for punishment.

Only this time, I was calling the shots.

We’d moved the annual charity gala to the ballroom of the luxury hotel in town. I took over and reached out to wealthy donors from all around the state. If we were going to do this, we were going to do it big and right. For the kids.

Waiters in crisp black suits moved through the crowd with trays of champagne. The live band in the corner was playing loud enough to be heard, but not so loud to drown out conversation. Wealthy donors were all rubbing elbows and talking business.

I had done away with the old auction. Yes, we were still auctioning things, but things—not people. I had never been comfortable with that. Instead, Portia and I had worked together to solicit donations from local businesses. We had a few big items, including a car from the local dealership, but mostly small things. Those small things would fetch big dollar amounts because no one wanted to look like a cheap ass.

Seth caught my eye from across the room. He flashed a grin, teasing me. I rolled my eyes. My brother had been insufferable ever since I’d told him my plan. Portia was talking with her mom and dad. She looked stunning in the new gown Alexis had made for her, something that was becoming a tradition for them.

The new venue required something a little fancier than the sundress Portia wore last year. The shimmering champagne-colored dress had intricate beading and lace detailing. The A-line silhouette with a plunging neckline and delicate spaghetti straps made her look like a goddess.

She looked over at me and smiled. I nodded in return, enchanted by her.

The announcer stepped up to the mic, clearing his throat. “Ladies and gentlemen, we have a surprise submission for tonight’s auction. One that’s a little unconventional.”

The room quieted. I straightened, my fingers brushing the small velvet box in my pocket.

Portia looked up to the announcer on stage. She frowned as the spotlight swung toward her. Her frown turned to confusion.

“But there’s only one person who can place a bid on this item,” the auctioneer said.

Portia’s eyebrows shot up. “What?”

I adjusted my tie and walked across the marble floor as I made my way toward the stage. The crowd parted just like it did last year, whispers following in my wake.

Portia’s eyes narrowed. “Oh, hell no,” I heard her say.

Her parents, who were in on the surprise, gently grabbed her and brought her up to the stage. She looked around the room as she climbed the three steps to join me.

“What are you doing?” she hissed.

I couldn’t help the grin that spread across my face as I reached into my pocket. “What’s wrong, sweetheart?” I held up the velvet box between two fingers. “You started a tradition last year.”

Laughter rippled through the room. Portia folded her arms, that familiar fire sparking in her eyes. “And what exactly am I bidding on?”

The room went dead silent as I flipped open the box. The diamond caught the light, scattering prisms across Portia’s stunned face.

“The question isn’t what you’re bidding on,” I said, my voice rough. “It’s whether you’re willing to bet on us.”

Portia’s lips parted. The entire ballroom seemed to hold its breath.

Then, with that wicked smirk I loved so damn much, she raised the paddle she’d been carrying. “One million dollars.”

The crowd erupted. Glasses clinked. Someone wolf whistled. Seth was grinning like an idiot, clapping louder than anyone. But all I saw was her.

“Final offer?” I murmured.

Portia’s breath hitched. Her fingers trembled as she took the box, her eyes glistening under the chandelier lights. Then she slid her arms around my neck, pressing her lips to my ear.

“I’ll take it.”

Her mouth met mine, warm and sure, tasting of champagne and something salty, probably caviar. I grinned against her lips, pulling her tight against me as the crowd cheered.