“We are here for the liquidation of the physical and intellectual assets of Bennett Urban Systems,” the man said.

His voice was flat, mechanical, and tired.

“The starting bid for Lot A, which includes all proprietary structural software, active engineering contracts, and physical equipment, is set at two million dollars.”

The room was mostly filled with silent spectators and a few corporate lawyers representing rival firms.

“Two million,” a man in the front row said, raising his paddle.

“Two point two,” another bidder countered.

Adrian sat perfectly still, his fingers gripping the edge of his wooden chair.

I waited.

“Two point five,” the first bidder said.

The liquidator looked around the room. “Any further bids for Lot A?”

I raised my paddle.

“Three million,” I said.

The room fell quiet.

Adrian’s head snapped toward me, his eyes wide and dark.

The first bidder shook his head and lowered his paddle.

“Three million once,” the liquidator said.

“Three million twice.”

The wooden gavel struck the sound block with a sharp crack.

“Sold to bidder forty-seven,” the liquidator said.

I lowered my paddle and placed it on my lap.