Chapter 112
Audrey’s POV:
Mrs. Cole studied me with newfound interest, her elegant features softening.
“It’s true. Around the eyes, especially.”
She reached out as if to touch my face, but stopped herself.
“There’s something so familiar about you, dear. ”
I managed a polite smile, unsure how to respond to being compared to someone I’d just met.
“That’s… very kind of you to say.”
Mrs. Cole glanced around, suddenly realizing we were all still standing in the middle of the ballroom.
“Oh, but where are my manners? We shouldn’t keep everyone standing like this.”
She gestured toward the elaborate table arrangements.
“Let’s get everyone seated. The first course will be served shortly.”
Turning to Caspar, she added with practiced grace, “Mr. Thornton, we’ve prepared a special table for you near the front-
“Thank you for your consideration, Mrs. Cole, but that won’t be necessary,” Caspar interrupted smoothly.
“I’d prefer to sit with Ms. Lane and my son. I don’t want to engage in extra social activities.”
Mrs. Cole’s expression shifted to understanding.
“Of course, Mr. Thornton. I completely understand wanting to enjoy the evening.” She smiled warmly.
We were seated at a round table with several other guests, all of whom regarded us with barely concealed curiosity.
The woman across from me, wearing an extravagant emerald necklace, leaned forward with a conspiratorial smile.
“You have such a beautiful family,” she whispered loudly. “Your son is absolutely adorable.”
“Oh, we’re not-” I began, but the woman continued as if I hadn’t spoken.
“How long have you two been married?” she asked, looking between Caspar and me.
AS
1/3
21:43 Tue, Feb 3
Chapter 112
“We’re not married, I clarified quickly. “I’m not his mother.
The correction hung awkwardly in the air.
From the corner of my eye, I noticed Noah’s expression cloud over, his small shoulders slumping almost imperceptibly
Before I could say anything to comfort him, a commotion near the entrance caught everyone’s attention.
Daisy Cole was making her way toward our table, her arm linked with a slim woman in an overly dramatic black dress.
“Caspar!” Daisy’s voice rang out, deliberately loud enough to ensure everyone nearby could bear.
I simply must introduce you to someone extraordinary.” She pulled the woman forward.
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“This is Liora, the brilliant artist I told you about. She’s agreed to create a special piece for my mom’s birthday.”
The announcement sent a ripple of excited whispers through the nearby tables.
I could hear snippets of conversations as guests turned to get a glimpse of the supposed art world sensation.
“First Caspar Thornton and now Liora?” gasped a woman in a sequined gown. “The Coles certainly know how to draw the elite!”
“I’ve been trying to commission her for years,” a gray–haired man murmured to his companion. “My art dealer says her waiting list is three years long.”
“Her paintings are always priceless.” another guest added with reverent awe.
Daisy basked in the reflected glory.
The attention seemed to make her glow, her smile growing wider with each admiring comment from the crowd.
She flicked her gaze dismissively at me,
“…whatever unknown corner of the art world you emerged from, Ms. Lane.” She laughed, a brittle sound that didn’t reach her eyes.
“Just imagine what Noah could accomplish with proper artistic guidance from someone like Liora, instead of…”
She waved vaguely in my direction, “…basic preschool techniques. The boy has genuine talent that deserves nurturing from established artists, not just anyone with a paintbrush.”
Clara, who was passing by with a champagne flute in hand, let out an audible scoff.
Daisy’s head snapped toward the sound, her radar for anything that might diminish her spotlight moment perfectly tuned.
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21:43 Tue, Feb 3
Chapter 112
Something funny, Clara?” she asked, her voice sugar–coated but with a sharp edge.
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Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.
