Page 5 of The Celebrity Bidder

“She’s not Cinderella,” I grumble.

Nadine ignores me. “I’ll wear something that saysmysterious out-of-towner with deep pockets.”

“Whatever. Just make sure you win.”

I hang up and look down at Scout, who is now watching me like I’ve lost my mind.

“Don’t judge me,” I tell him. “It’s for charity.”

He wags his tail.

“I’ll take that as a sign of approval.”

Chapter 4

Bella

IfIblinktoohard, I swear my fake eyelashes will fly right off.How did I let Stacy talk me into this?

“Stacy,” I hiss, gripping the edge of the vanity table. “I look like a Las Vegas showgirl.”

“You lookgorgeous,” she sings, fluffing my curled hair with manic energy. “You’re going to knock ‘em dead.”

“I’m going to knockyoudead if all this makeup doesn’t wash off with plain old soap and water.”

She ignores me and adjusts the neckline of my dress. It’s classy, black, and sleek… but a lot more body-hugging than I’mused to. I don’t doglam. I do flannel, boots, and whole lot of dog hair. This version of me feels like a stranger in borrowed skin.

Then I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror—and okay, maybe I don’t look half bad. Even if I do feel like an imposter.

The town hall is packed when Stacy guides me toward the staging area. The auction’s already in full swing—hoots, whistles, and someone calling out dollar amounts with way too much enthusiasm. I spot too many familiar faces in the crowd, including my book club, the mayor’s wife, and one of my vet techs.

This is so humiliating.

I’d rather be mucking out kennels.

“And now,” the emcee announces, drawing the crowd’s attention, “please welcome one of Hawks Roost’s most beloved citizens. The heart behind Fielding Rescue & Rehab… Miss Bella Fielding!”

I step onto the stage, lights blinding, heart pounding.

It’s too much. The attention, the eyes. I want to shrink into myself, disappear back into the shadows with a cup of tea and a senior dachshund.

Then I spot him.Bruce.

The cheating ex who treated my heart like a dog with a chew toy.

He’s seated front and center in a tailored suit, arms casually draped over the back of his chair like he owns the place. Which, knowing him, he probably tried to do at some point. He’s made his fortune flipping properties and pretending to be charming while doing it.Stupid real estate mogul with a smarmy smile.

He winks at me, and I see red.The nerve he has! How dare he? What’s he even doing here?

Suddenly, the blood that was boiling a mere moment ago chills in my veins. Bruce wouldn’t waste his time coming to a charity event… unless he plans to place a bid.

Oh, no.I’ve made good on my vow to never speak to him again, ignoring his calls and text messages. But if he’s the highest bidder, I’ll have no choice but to go on a date with him.

I spin on my heel to march off the stage, but Stacy’s anticipated this. She’s standing right behind me with a smile pasted on her face.

“And now, let’s open the bidding for a date with Bella Fielding!” the auctioneer calls.

I hear someone call out, “Two hundred!” A second bidder raises the price by $100 a moment later.

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