Chapter 102: Test

"According to the rules, only those who have bid in every round of the previous auctions, and have made at least three bids each time, can participate in the final bid. In other words, William Foster not only spent a fortune for this ring, but also had to buy many items that are practically useless. This is a test of one’s financial strength and patience." At this point, his expression became more serious. "No wonder!" Edward Bennett immediately realized, "So that’s it, he went all out, completely disregarding the cost of those worthless extras just to successfully get this ring. Such determination is truly uncommon!" He exclaimed in amazement, his expression full of admiration and surprise. Charles Bennett couldn’t help but take a deep breath upon hearing this, his voice slightly trembling: "It seems that William Foster is genuinely serious about our sister! To go through so much trouble for just one ring, he must really mean it." Her eyes flashed with a hint of gratification, yet held some concern, as if silently praying for her sister’s future happiness. James Bennett let out a deep breath, raised his head towards the kitchen as if watching the busy Clara Bennett. He said earnestly, "No matter what, I can finally feel at peace. As long as he treats Clara sincerely, I can truly relax. After all, for family, seeing your sister find someone reliable is the greatest comfort." With these words, his tone softened considerably, his eyes full of brotherly love and protection. At this moment, Clara Bennett was obliviously busy in the kitchen preparing hot pot. She wore a cute floral apron, a relaxed and happy smile on her face, the knife in her hand flying skillfully like a seasoned chef. On the cutting board were various fresh ingredients: tender red slices of beef, vibrant green vegetables, and golden corn segments, neatly arranged, exuding an enticing aroma. The air was filled with a rich fragrance, the pot already boiling, bubbling with steam as if urging the cook to start. On the other side, William Foster was so enraged that he threw the script on the floor. His gaze was cold and sharp, his knuckles white as he clenched his fists, his entire presence exuding uncontrollable fury. "How could this happen?" He muttered through gritted teeth, his slender fingers brushing across the dazzling film script on the coffee table, as if another glance would worsen his mood. Then, he took a deep breath, trying to suppress his inner anger and anxiety, though his slightly furrowed brow still showed his unrest. He then took out his phone and called Sam Clarke: "Can you mess up this movie somehow? I’ll give thirty billion, no! Sixty billion! For another film!" As soon as he spoke, he was somewhat surprised by the astronomical amount he offered, but it was a testament to how much he cared about this issue. His tone was firm and decisive, with no room for negotiation, each word charged with strong emotional fluctuations. The innocent Secretary Clarke was clearly taken aback upon receiving the call: "Mr. William Foster, how about..." She paused for a moment, seemingly trying to phrase her words carefully, afraid of angering the always assertive boss further, "Directly discussing it with the Young Madam?" Her tone was cautious, mixed with a bit of probing, afraid to touch a nerve. "You two’s affairs, don’t make it difficult for me, okay?" William Foster’s response hit Sam Clarke like a bolt of lightning. His voice was deep and rich, with a hint of exhaustion and helplessness, realizing it wasn’t fair to dump all the issues on her. Yet being caught in this predicament was truly uncomfortable, Sam Clarke could only silently grumble: Why do you have to go around such a big circle? Meanwhile, Clara Bennett was with her three brothers around the steaming hot pot, chatting enthusiastically. The little stove on the table flickered with flames, as the boiling broth constantly emitted white mist, looking enchanting under the light. The table was filled with various mouth-watering dishes, spicy and delicious tripe, tender and succulent shrimp, and a variety of seasonal vegetables, just looking at them would make anyone hungry. The four siblings ate and laughed, sharing the latest happenings, the warm atmosphere filled the entire room. Suddenly, the landline in the living room rang; it was Sir Bennett making a video call from overseas. The family quickly adjusted the camera angle so the elder could see everyone simultaneously. Once the video connected, Sir Bennett appeared on screen wearing a wide-brimmed hat, with an endless ocean in the background, the sea breeze wafting gently, appearing very relaxed. But his attention was completely on his daughter, his gaze locked on Clara Bennett, who was picking hot pot ingredients, showing a loving and satisfied smile. "Honey, you seem to know how to take care of yourself at home!" He praised with a smile, his eyes full of affection and indulgence. As for his three sons, well... Hmm, even not seeing them was a kind of relief! Old father’s eyes didn’t linger much on those rowdy big boys, perhaps because he had long been used to their usual careless ways. For this group of sons who were growing older yet not very reliable, he was both exasperated and reluctant to bother with them. However, the three knowingly unlucky sons weren’t much interested in calling their dad. Instead of formal greetings, they rushed to brag about today’s hot pot feast, featuring their sister’s culinary skills. "Dad, this time we really ate to the point of doubting life!" The eldest spoke first, "Clara’s cooking skills are not at all inferior to a five-star hotel chef’s, especially that dipping sauce, it’s a masterpiece!" The other two chimed in, their voices overpowering the boiling broth, even sneaking closer to the camera to showcase photos of various dish outcomes. Seeing the sumptuous and enticing feast on screen, especially the way the kids devoured it, Sir Bennett’s eyes sparkled with craving, almost immediately deciding to buy a ticket to come home. However, reason ultimately overwhelmed his greedy impulse, so he quickly asked if some food could be reserved for him upon return. Fortunately, Clara swiftly took over the topic to dissuade him: "Dad, the scenery is beautiful with few people, be sure to have a great time, we’ve got plenty of time to have a meal when you return!" After hanging up the call, the dining room fell into brief silence, then eldest brother Charles Bennett poured himself a drink and sipped. After drinking a mouthful of fragrant, rich red wine, he casually remarked, "If Dad knew you were entering the film industry to act, he’d probably be shocked to death." These words caused the other three to halt their chopsticks and look at the youngest sister in disbelief.