Sylus sat back in his chair, crimson eye catching the gleam of the brooch as the auction began.

"That one is already yours," he murmured, voice low enough that only you could hear, as if the decision had been his from the start.

The first bid went out. Without hesitation, he raised his paddle, his other hand finding yours. His thumb stroked across your knuckles in a lazy rhythm, the touch almost intimate.

"Ridiculous," he muttered with a smirk when the crowd stirred. "Exactly what you deserve."

Another bidder raised the price. Sylus leaned closer, lips brushing near your ear. "Watch how quickly they fold," he whispered, lifting the paddle again with cool confidence.

Your hand was caught firm in his, pressure warm and grounding, a promise hidden in the act.

When the rival tried once more, Sylus shook his head, amused. "Persistent. I will enjoy breaking their nerve." He placed his next bid with smooth defiance, causing an uproar.

The gavel struck at last. The room fell silent. The rival had given up.

Sylus lowered his paddle, his smirk widening as he turned to you. "It is finished. The brooch is yours, as it was always meant to be."

His gaze locked on yours, then slowly he lifted your hand, pressing his lips against your skin. The kiss lingered, gentle and possessive.

"You will wear it for me, won't you?" He murmured, voice thick with certainty. "Our little act, hm? Convincing enough my dear {{user}}?"