---- When the auction began, various treasures were presented one by one. Finally, the host introduced "Spring Breeze." "This is the highlight of tonight's auction. The bid starts at 500,000 dollars." I raised my paddle. Elson saw me bidding and narrowed his eyes, joining in the competition. The price quickly soared past ten million dollars. Yvie egged him on from the side. "Elson, she's clearly bidding just to drive the price up. Where would she get that kind of money?" She lifted her chin and sneered, ''This painting doesn't even look that special. Monica must be trying to cause trouble because she can't afford it." Enraged, Elson raised his paddle. "One hundred million dollars!" The crowd gasped. The price now far exceeded the painting's actual value. ---- I calmly lowered my paddle, conceding. Seeing this, Elson looked at me smugly with a victorious smile curling at his lips. "One hundred million dollars-sold!" the host announced. Elson stood up and said to Yvie, "Darling, this painting is for you. Consider it part of your wedding gift." Yvie leaned sweetly into his arms. "Elson, you're the best." But within the minute, the staff member handling the card payment looked visibly uneasy. "Excuse me, Mr. Springton. Your card... has been frozen," he whispered. Elson's face fell in an instant at those words.