Ariel’s expression shifted. She stared at Nancy in surprise.

Nancy, however, smiled back with a calm, elegant grace. Her composure and confidence were entirely genuine.

Frowning, Frederick glanced over. “Ms. Walker, did you even check the signature? Anything displayed in Spencer Gallery is a masterpiece. There’s no need for you to pretend to be from a scholarly background. You might end up embarrassing yourself.”

It wasn’t hard to read between the lines.

He was practically accusing Ariel of trying to claim credit for Nancy’s mother’s work.

Nancy understood the implication immediately. Frederick was suggesting that Ariel was being vain.

She agreed, though she didn’t say it outright. Instead, she said gently, “This was the first painting my mom sold before going abroad. I never expected to see it here, but…”

She turned to Ariel with a smile. “I appreciate your admiration. You’ve got good taste, Ms. Walker.”

Ariel was at a loss for words.

She couldn’t believe the coincidence. It seemed too perfect. Elena had lost the lower half of her painting, and Sarah had created a piece so similar, one that was being sold for a high price.

If Ariel was right, this paint as

years ago.

probably connected to the problem with Elena’s graduation project all those

Ariel quickly regained her composure. Sarah had only entered high society thanks to Elena’s support. She’d been discovered by a wealthy patron and secured a permanent resident card abroad.

Sarah had built her career riding on Elena’s achievements.

Ariel wasn’t someone who would argue without reason. There was no point in doing so now, especially since the painting clearly bore Sarah’s signature.

She quickly collected her thoughts and said, “I really admire this painting. Would it be possible to contact Mr. Spencer? I’d be willing to buy it for a high price.”

After all, this was evidence. If she held onto it, she’d eventually get to the bottom of the truth.

“I’ll take this one,” Nancy suddenly said.

Her tone carried a sharper edge now, making it clear she hadn’t taken Ariel’s earlier words seriously at all.

Ariel turned to face her.

Nancy glanced at her, then spoke softly, though her gaze was laced with a touch of disdain. “Sorry, but this painting has significant sentimental value to my mom. I’d like to have it returned to her.”

It was as if she were implying Ariel had no right to argue any further.

Ariel’s heart skipped a beat.

She had no choice but to look at Peyton for support.

Peyton seemed torn. The gallery wasn’t selling any of the works today, but he also knew the people present were far too powerful to ignore. He turned to Zach, clearly hoping for guidance.

Zach raised an eyebrow and had no choice but to step in. “I can mediate, but ultimately, it’s up to you to figure out who gets the painting.”

“What if it’s for me?” Jayson asked casually.

Ariel’s head snapped toward him.

He continued, “Please let Mr. Spencer know that if he’s open to selling it, Bluum Corp is willing to give up 1% of the profits in our partnership with Spencer Group.”

As Ariel looked at him, her gaze gradually turned cold, just like the heart beating in her chest.

He was actually willing to make such a major business concession to please Nancy.

He knew perfectly well how much Ariel wanted it too. And yet, he cut off that hope without a moment’s hesitation for Nancy’s sake. 1

“Mr. Larkin, to whom are you giving it?” Zach, surprised, couldn’t help but ask.

Jayson glanced at Nancy and asked, “Anything else you want? I’ll take care of it too.”

Nancy’s face lit up with a sweet smile. “Thank you, Jayson.”

It was impossible not to notice their intense connection.

Jayson’s stance was crystal clear. He was willing to do anything to win Nancy’s favor. It didn’t matter that Ariel was his wife. If Nancy wanted something, Ariel was expected to step aside.

Ariel’s expression turned cold. She knew that she didn’t stand a chance going up against Jayson.

Everyone around them turned to look at her.