The auction continued through two lots before the clerk approached the blue screen. Yan watched him speak to the masked bidder. The bidder shook his head, then made a small motion toward the side door.
“The deposit is due now,” the clerk said. “The terms were posted before bidding.”
“My sponsor is delayed,” the bidder replied. His voice was low but clear.
“The deposit is still due.”
“Give me time.”
The auctioneer stopped the next lot. He asked the bidder to step to the table. The man kept his face hidden behind the mask and said the funds would arrive shortly. The auction clerk consulted the posted terms, then shook his head. No deposit meant no sale. The auctioneer returned the manual to the floor.
Yan felt the hope rise in him and kept both hands in his lap. Bai leaned toward him.
“Do not raise your ceiling because he defaulted.”
