Chapter 4 Menu The auction continued without pause . After a brief intermission , staff wheeled out a large display stand featuring detailed blueprints for a prime piece of real estate . The auctioneer cleared his throat and announced the starting bid . While others still calculated risks , Emelia decisively raised her paddle . " 225 million ! " Samantha's face paled at the figure , her eyes widening in disbelief . How dare she bid so aggressively ! 270 million ! " a competitor countered . 285 million ! " another voice followed . " 315 million ! " yet another challenger persisted . The atmosphere in the room grew increasingly tense as bidding escalated , making the crowd excited . Just as the price was about to settle at 315 million , Emelia raised her paddle again . This time her voice rang out firm and resonant . " 375 million ! " Emelia's bid landed like a blow , freezing the previously competitive bidders in place . They exchanged uncertain glances , their eyes filled with hesitation and deliberation . Within moments , the raised paddles lowered and disappeared . Before the auction , numerous astute investors had coveted this prime property . The previous owner's urgent overseas relocation created this rare commercial opportunity , making the land particularly desirable . The Sutton family had initially shown strong interest but withdrew upon learning of Justin's determination to secure the plot . With their families already connected by marriage , they reasoned it didn't really matter who bought the land Yet Emelia knew better than to let such profit fall into Justin's hands . " Mrs. Pittman bids 375 million ! " the auctioneer's voice boomed across the hall . " Do I hear any higher offers ? " The auctioneer's gavel hovered mid - air as if anticipating one final twist . His announcement plunged the room into complete silence , with no one daring to speak . Only Emelia responded , her lips curving into a confident smile as she rose gracefully . " Actually , " she corrected in a clear , measured tone , " I'm not here as Mrs. Pittman today . I represent the Sutton family in this bidding . " cle