Mary's hand remained steady as she gently patted Veronica's fingers. "Everything's fine, dear."
She had expected this confrontation. If the Crystal and Mack could anticipate her arrival, then surely she could predict their presence as well. The art world in their circles was surprisingly small.
Dario stepped closer, his voice carrying a note of genuine warmth. "Mrs. Jayden, I'd be honored to introduce you to Mr. Patterson Senior personally. He's inside greeting guests right now."
The offer hung in the air like a golden opportunity. eting her artistic hero face to face would be a dream co true for any art enthusiast. But Mary's weathered features softened into a gracious smile as she declined.
"Simply being surrounded by so many of his masterpieces under one roof is blessing enough. I wouldn't dream of imposing on his ti during such an important evening."
Her decision was final, and Dario recognized the quiet dignity in her refusal. Still, the presence of both hostile families made his protective instincts flare. He cast a worried glance toward where the Crystal and Mack lingered.
Veronica caught the concern in his expression. "Please, go handle your business. We'll be perfectly fine here."
Her confidence wasn't misplaced. Both families valued their social standing above petty revenge. In such a prestigious venue, surrounded by the city's elite, they wouldn't dare create a scene that could damage their carefully cultivated reputations.
Reluctantly, Dario nodded and disappeared into the crowd of distinguished guests.
"Which piece shall we admire first, Grandma?" Veronica asked, offering her arm for support.
Mary's eyes sparkled with anticipation. "Let's begin with whatever's closest and work our way through. I want to savor every single brushstroke."
They had barely taken two steps when Maverick and Kolton materialized at the gallery entrance. Maverick's sharp gaze imdiately located Veronica among the gathered art lovers, while Kolton's face lit up with poorly concealed hope.
Kolton took an instinctive step forward, clearly intending to approach her. But Maverick's hand shot out, gripping his companion's arm with subtle force. His expression had hardened into disapproval.
Veronica deliberately turned her back on both n, guiding Mary toward the nearest painting without acknowledgnt.
"Those two gentlen seem familiar with you," Mary observed quietly, her artist's eye missing nothing.
"We've crossed paths professionally. Nothing more significant than that."
Mary accepted the explanation without prying. She understood that so associations were better left in the past.
Monts later, Isaac and Dora Crystal made their grand entrance, dressed in their finest evening wear. They approached Maverick with calculated smiles, ready to expand their social network, when he preempted their introduction.
"Mr. and Mrs. Crystal, what a pleasant surprise to see you here tonight."
Isaac's chest puffed with pride at being recognized. "Indeed, we wouldn't miss such a cultural event."
Before the conversation could develop further, Sophia and Jade Mack glided over with predatory grace. Their eyes glittered with curiosity as they sized up the two younger n.
"Isaac, Dora, you must introduce us to your acquaintances," Jade demanded with saccharine sweetness.
Isaac straightened his tie importantly. "Allow to present Mr. Harris. He's connected to the Winchester family through business relationships."
The magical ntion of the Winchester na transford both won's deanor instantly. Their smiles beca genuine, their postures more deferential.
After exchanging the requisite pleasantries and business cards, Maverick and Kolton excused themselves to fulfill their primary obligation. They navigated through clusters of guests toward the inner sanctum where gifts were being received.
Inside the more intimate space, they discovered Dario lounging in a leather armchair, looking characteristically at ease among the wealthy and powerful.
"Dario? Should have known you'd be here too," Maverick comnted without surprise.
Their families moved in overlapping circles. When one appeared at such gatherings, others inevitably followed.
Dario lifted his crystal tumbler in mock salute. "Likewise."
Edric erged from a side room, carrying a delicate porcelain teacup which he handed to Dario with practiced hospitality. His attention shifted to Maverick with polite recognition.
"Good to see you made it tonight."
Maverick accepted the acknowledgnt with a curt nod. "Absolutely. Where might we find your grandfather? We have gifts to present."
"He's currently entertaining so major collectors in his private study. The discussion might continue for quite so ti. Please, make yourselves comfortable."
Maverick settled into the offered chair, but Dario remained visibly agitated. He checked his expensive watch repeatedly, his leg bouncing with barely contained nervous energy.
Edric's perceptive gaze didn't miss the anxiety. "Is there sowhere else you need to be, Dario?"
Dario ran a hand through his hair, clearly torn. "Not exactly, but there's a situation I should probably monitor."
Protocol demanded he wait for a proper audience with Neal Patterson Senior. Leaving prematurely would be considered a significant breach of etiquette. Yet his concern for Veronica's welfare in the presence of her enemies was eating at him.
Finally, his protective instincts won the internal battle. "My apologies, Edric, but I really must step out briefly."
Edric waved dismissively. "Don't worry about it. Handle whatever you need to."
Dario was already moving toward the exit before the words finished leaving Edric's mouth.
Maverick watched the hasty departure with knowing calculation. The target of Dario's concern was obvious to anyone paying attention.
Edric settled back in his chair with practiced ease. "My grandfather could be occupied for another hour easily. You're both welco to mingle outside if you prefer. The evening air might be more pleasant than waiting in here."
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