𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐄

𝐅𝐈𝐕𝐄

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐘𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐘 𝐌𝐀𝐍

Immediately, hands shot up around the room. Each bidder were eager to secure the captivating piece for themselves.

As the numbers climbed higher, the crowd became restless with anticipation. Suddenly, the grand doors at the back of the hall swung open, and a man in a royal blue masquerade mask entered, wearing an impeccably tailored royal blue suit that matched the shade of his mask.

He exuded an air of regal elegance, capturing everybody’s attention. Whispers filled the room as the mysterious man took his place among the bidders. His presence was magnetic, all eyes were drawn to him.

“A new bidder has joined the fray,” He announced, his voice carrying an air of intrigue. “It seems our masked guest is as eager as the rest to acquire this masterpiece.”

The bidding intensified as the masked man raised his paddle confidently, his gaze never leaving the stunning artwork on the platform.

“800,000.” He stated with unwavering determination. The room fell silent, and the auctioneer nodded in acknowledgement.

“We have a bid of 800,000. Do we have any higher offers?”

The hall remained hushed for a brief moment until Dacre finally dared to bid.

“1 million.”

The masked man didn’t hesitate. “2 million.” He countered, his voice was steady.

The bidding continued in a captivating dance of numbers, but it became evident that the masked man was not willing to let go of the exquisite painting he seemed so drawn to.

“Sold for 15 million to the mysterious bidder in the royal blue suit!” The crowd erupted into applause as the masked man emerged victorious. He made his way up to the stage where the auctioneer handed him the winning paddle.

The masked man turned towards the audience, his gaze sweeping over the gathered crowd. Unexpectedly, he locked his eyes into mine.

In that brief, enigmatic moment, the world seemed to fade away, leaving only our gazes intertwined. It was as if time stood still, and the connection between us felt inexplicably profound.

With a subtle nod, the masked man acknowledged me before turning away, leaving my heart racing with curiosity and wonder.

—

As she sipped her wine, I noticed the thoughtful expression on her face. “You seem lost in your thoughts,” I remarked.

She looked up, meeting my gaze with a faint smile. “I can’t help but wonder about the man in the royal blue mask from the auction earlier,” She admitted. “There was something mysterious and captivating about him.”

I chuckled. “It’s not uncommon for people to be intrigued by someone who seems to carry an air of mystery.”

“I know,” Teagan replied, swirling her wine in her glass thoughtfully. “There was something more to it. When he looked at me, it was like he saw right through me — as if there was a connection, even though we’ve never met before.”

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Teagan’s fascination. “Perhaps, it was just the allure of the moment, the excitement of the auction.” I suggested.

“Maybe,” She said, her voice tinged with uncertainty. “It felt like there was more to it.”

—

I had spent the rest of the evening browsing social media, hoping to catch a glimpse of the mysterious masked man who had captivated me at the auction.

I set my phone aside and stared at the ceiling, my mind was still filled with thoughts of the enigmatic stranger.

Who was he? What was his story? Why did he seem to leave such a lasting impression on me?

Despite not having any answers, my curiosity only grew stronger. I tried to push these thoughts away, reminding myself that it was just a chance encounter — a fleeting moment in a sea of strangers.

I reached for my phone and opened the browser again. I searched for news articles, forums, and even social media accounts that might mention the auction or the bidder, but there was nothing.

It was as if he had disappeared from the world, leaving only a lingering trace of mystery in his wake.

This is so frustrating.

—

Before long, the office door opened, and Roux walked in. His charming smile lit up the room. He approached my desk with a playful glint in his eyes.

“Good morning, Teagan.” He said, his voice was as smooth as a velvet. “I hope you’re ready for a delicious breakfast. Care to join me?”

My curiosity was piqued. “Sure, why?” I asked.

Roux leaned in closer. “Well, I can’t let you start the day on an empty stomach,” He said, a hint of mischief was visible in his eyes. “Breakfast with you sounds like the perfect way to brighten my morning.”

I laughed, charmed by Roux’s playful demeanor. “Alright, you won,” I replied, setting aside my coffee momentarily. “I’m intrigued by that man Dacre was talking to.”

Roux raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise. “Oh, and here I thought you were enticed by my captivating company.” He teased.

I rolled my eyes.

—

Roux’s easygoing nature and ability to bring a sense of lightness to any situation is something I am grateful for.

“Thank you for joining me,” He sincerely said. “I hope our breakfast brought sunshine to your day.”

I smiled, genuinely touched by his thoughtfulness. “It definitely did,” I appreciate the genuine connection I shared with Roux.

—

The enticing aroma of the warm pastry filled the air, making me look forward to savoring it with the coffee I left on my desk.

“Hey, watch it!” I exclaimed as I bent down to retrieve the fallen croissant.

The man, who had caused the mishap, glanced at me for a moment. His expression was almost indifferent, and he turned away, continuing on his way as if nothing had happened.

I was taken aback by his lack of response. “Excuse me!” I called after him. “You just ruined my croissant! The least you could do is apologize!”

The man stopped for a moment, but instead of acknowledging his mistake or offering an apology, he simply walked away.

My croissant!

Jerk!

I walked back to my desk. This croissant is still delicious despite its brief encounter with the floor.

TO BE CONTINUED.