Chapter 54
Evelyn and Christopher arrived at a sleek, modern building. He handed the car keys to the valet before leading her inside with effortless charm.
The orange sports car was parked nearby, its occupants watching intently.
"Sir, they're just here for the exhibition," Maxwell reasoned. "There's no affair happening. The tension between our families and the Graysons is bad enough. Stalking Nathaniel's wife will only make things worse!"
Benjamin scoffed. "You don't understand. There's something off about them being here alone."
He stepped out of the car, determined to follow Evelyn inside, but the gallery staff blocked his path. "Invitation required, sir."
Benjamin frowned. "I'm a Rivers. Our families have been close to the Ashfords for years. Let me in."
The staff exchanged glances before checking the guest list.
"Only Samuel Rivers is listed. You're not on here."
Benjamin cleared his throat. "My brother couldn't make it. I'm attending in his place."
After a brief hesitation, they relented. "Very well, Mr. Rivers."
Inside, Evelyn stood before The Pink Flamingo, lost in thought.
"You only seem interested in Vivian Sterling's work," Christopher observed, rejoining her after greeting friends. "Not the more famous pieces."
She met his gaze. "Yes. I admire her."
Curious, he tilted his head. "Why? Her style is niche, not mainstream."
"Because she's my... inspiration." The words nearly slipped—my mother.
Christopher smiled. "I had the privilege of meeting her once."
Evelyn's breath hitched. "When?"
"When I was young. My father bought these three paintings from her and later gifted them to me."
Her pulse quickened. "What was she like?"
He considered. "Beautiful. Gentle yet distant. Uncompromising in her art—just like her work."
Evelyn's chest tightened. He described her mother perfectly—proud, aloof, yet tender with family.
"Christopher," she ventured, "are these paintings for sale?"
He smirked. "You want them?"
She nodded.
"Sorry. Every piece here is priceless to me."
Evelyn's jaw clenched. This won't be easy.