Sophia Sullivan took a step forward.
Her smile was perfectly measured.
"Mr. Winston Sr., these experts were personally invited by Liam," she said softly, yet every word carried clarity. "They've worked on national-level artifact restoration projects. Their experience is unparalleled."
Her gaze flickered briefly toward Chloe Evans.
"Specialized work should always be entrusted to professionals."
Sophia lifted her eyes slightly.
She watched Chloe's theatrical performance unfold.
It was like observing a poorly staged play.
True skill never needed empty boasts to prove itself.
False facades crumbled at the slightest touch.
The head of the restoration team stepped forward.
A man in his forties.
"Mr. Winston, may we first assess the extent of the painting's damage?"
Mr. Winston Sr. hesitated before nodding.
At this point, they were his only hope.
The man produced specialized tools and examined the artwork meticulously.
His expression grew increasingly grave.
"This painting... has a hidden layer," he announced, voice heavy. "The restoration will be extremely challenging."
Mr. Winston Sr.'s heart sank.
"We can recover, at most, sixty percent," the man continued. "For better results, we'd need the world's top restoration experts."
The old man staggered.
Sophia steadied him instantly.
His hands trembled faintly.
"Do what you can," Mr. Winston Sr. sighed. "Any restoration is better than none."
The study's atmosphere turned oppressive.
The team began preparing their equipment.
Then Sophia spoke.
"That method for handling discoloration is incorrect."
Her tone was calm.
"A gradual absorption technique would better preserve the original."
Vincent Lowell whipped his head around.
He despised unsolicited advice.
Especially from a young woman.
"Just a suggestion," Sophia said mildly.
Chloe immediately interjected.
"Sophia, don't speak carelessly if you don't understand," she said with feigned concern. "Mr. Lowell is a professional."
Liam Winston frowned.
"Sophia, this painting means everything to Grandpa."
Sophia glanced at him.
Her elbow brushed against him lightly.
Liam's face drained of color.
That terrible night flashed through his mind again.
Ryan Lawrence's icy stare.
Sophia's attention returned to the painting.
"Art restoration is a delicate art," her voice resonated in the study. "Above all, it demands respect for the original."
She fixed Vincent with a piercing look.
"Your current approach violates that principle."
Mr. Winston Sr.'s eyes brightened.
"You understand this, child?"
Hope tinged his voice.
Liam's expression darkened further.
He realized how little he truly knew this woman.
Every time he thought he'd grasped her depths,
he found only another layer beneath.
Chloe observed everything silently.
She'd deliberately worn a new dress today.
To please the old man.
And to hide her bruises.
Her teeth clenched in frustration.
Why did Sophia always land on her feet?
"If you're so skilled, why not demonstrate?" Chloe smiled sweetly. "Anyone can make empty claims."
Vincent scoffed.
"We can only restore sixty percent. What's your estimate?"
Sophia met his gaze squarely.
"Above ninety-five percent."
Thud!
Vincent slammed the table.
"Preposterous!" His face flushed with anger. "This isn't child's play!"