The idea of someone bidding a million for a worn-out amulet was absurd. The crowd could barely believe it. Who in their right mind would even consider competing for this? I could feel the tension coil in the hall like electricity. Money made people act strangely, like instincts overriding reason.
Before I could even think about thanking Finnick, Fabian jumped in.
"One point one million!"
The gasp that rippled through the audience was deafening. I couldn't believe my eyes. Another player in this insane game? Why would anyone fight over this?
I glanced at Finnick, my heart thudding. Would he give up? Or would he fight, just as fiercely as he had for Evelyn's pen? My gut told me he wouldn't relent. He wouldn't let anything or anyone take what mattered to me.
Finnick's expression stayed calm, almost unnervingly so, but I could sense the fire simmering beneath his control. Slowly, deliberately, he raised his paddle.
"One point two million!"
