Armed with this new information, I returned to the auction house, determined to confront Claire. The building was nearly empty, save for a few staff members cleaning up from the last event. I spotted her in the back office, talking on her phone. Her expression shifted when she saw me, the cool composure cracking just slightly.
« We need to talk, » I said, stepping into the office. She hung up, folding her arms defensively. « I know what you’re doing, » I continued, « and it stops here. »
For a moment, she said nothing, her eyes calculating. Then, with a resigned sigh, she spoke. « I was only doing my job, » she said, though the admission was hollow.
« And part of your job is deceiving people? » I challenged.
She didn’t answer, but the silence said enough. I left the office, determined to see this through, knowing that the fight wasn’t over yet. But I had allies now, and together, we’d uncover the truth behind these deals.
Note: This story is a work of fiction inspired by real events. Names, characters, and details have been altered.
