Chapter 52

Evelyn admired Christopher's honesty in his response. Just as she prepared to counter him—

Christopher flashed a charming smile, cutting her off. "Wait, don't answer that. It'll make me look terrible if I keep pestering you after being rejected."

From Evelyn's reaction, he already knew her answer would be no. Even politeness wouldn't change that outcome.

This caught Evelyn off guard. She suddenly realized how perceptive this man truly was.

"Evelyn Whitmore?" Christopher tested her full name.

"Hmm?" She glanced up from her dessert, spoon halfway to her lips.

He grinned. "Nothing. Just heard someone say your name earlier. Wanted to confirm. How do you spell it? E-v-e-l-y-n?"

"No. E-v-e-l-y-n. With two 'e's," she corrected.

"I see. Evelyn Whitmore... Lovely name. You're quite lovely too, though your personality doesn't quite match your appearance," he teased.

She rolled her eyes, which only amused him further.

Christopher chuckled. "Oh, I just remembered—there's a private gallery opening today for first viewings. Free to join me?"

Her refusal was immediate. "No."

Undeterred by the rejection, he leaned forward. "Are you certain? They're exhibiting several lost masterpieces never shown publicly before. A truly rare opportunity."

Evelyn shook her head again. "Thanks, but I should be getting home." Grandma Margaret's special soup awaited her.

Christopher checked his watch. "Home before four? You're more responsible than I thought."

Evelyn ignored him as her phone buzzed repeatedly.

Messages from Sebastian.

[Sebastian: Boss! Found Vivian Sterling's missing works!]

[Sebastian: These three masterpieces haven't been seen since her passing.]

[Sebastian: Sparrow, Night Cat, and The Pink Flamingo!]

Her spine straightened instantly. [Current location?] she typed.

Sebastian responded immediately. [Private gallery exhibition today—invitation only. Owner's inner circle. Maybe ask Mr. Nathaniel if he received an invite?]

Evelyn frowned. [Gallery owner?]

The reply came seconds later.

[Christopher Ashford, eldest son of the Ashfords. Recently returned to take over family business. These are his personal collections—one-day exclusive showing.]

Evelyn's gaze snapped to the man across from her. "Christopher Ashford?"

First time she'd said his name properly. He raised an eyebrow. "Yes?"

"That gallery invitation still open?"

His smile widened. "Naturally. What changed your mind?"

She shrugged. "Realized I've got nothing better to do. Might as well see these paintings you mentioned."

"Excellent timing," Christopher said, standing. "Shall we?"