technology

The next auction round starts in 5 minutes as you franticly hit 'accept' for the dynamically priced minimum bid. You forgo the premium sauce package just incase the bidding gets competitive. Up next is the Big Mac, lot of 1, and you're hungry. You don't have time to do the next 15 minute auction round, you're got to get back to the job. You take note of the shill bidder on company payroll in the corner but there's a big group today since it's the lunch rush so it'll probably be competitive. You hope he doesn't notice that you've put on makeup to cover up your gaunt look. Today you're eating. You even tried to throw off your coworkers by telling them you were going somewhere else but you still notice a few people there. Bidding starts at $25.54, about an hours wage. You grasp your phone tightly as your tap your finger to increase your bid. It climbs to $55.44 as some people walk out of the restaurant looking dejected. $65.95. You know you won't eat dinner, this small luxury is enough to satisfy you. You're top bidder, only a few seconds remain. You look up to see the shill bidder snarl at you as he stares directly into your eyes and taps once on his phone. He knows he can push you. Your heart sinks as you see the price, $135 even. You frown as you place your final bid. 'Congratulations' appears on your phone.