The bid climbed quickly, but Cindy’s resolve didn’t falter. Finally, the auctioneer’s gavel struck. “Sold! To the lady in black for $40,000.” The crowd buzzed with disbelief as all eyes turned to Cindy. Peter’s jaw clenched, his family exchanging alarmed glances. How had Cindy, of all people, afforded this?
Peter stormed toward her, unable to contain himself. “What’s going on, Cindy?” he demanded, his voice low but laced with anger. “How are you doing this? Where is this sudden wealth coming from?” Cindy turned to face him, her serene smile contrasting sharply with his rising fury.