Ethan Sullivan pushed the door open.
His black shirt accentuated his tall, straight frame.
The winter chill seemed to dissolve in his presence.
"Sophia."
His voice was deep.
Sophia Sullivan stepped forward immediately.
The rosewood case opened with one hand.
A painting lay quietly on its velvet lining.
"Ms. Sullivan."
Ian Watson carefully lifted the scroll.
"This is the painting you requested."
He paused.
"It's also the last remaining authentic work by Mr. Sullivan Sr."
Sophia's fingertips trembled slightly.
She hadn't realized the painting was by Ethan's grandfather.
She'd only recognized the seal.
Having seen similar works at the Sullivan estate before.
That was why she'd contacted Ethan to borrow it.
Now she understood both paintings were the elder Sullivan's final creations.
"This is my fault."
Mr. Winston Sr. approached with his cane.
A servant supported him carefully.
"My old friend loved painting more than life itself."
His voice was hoarse.
"His skill was unparalleled."
Bony fingers brushed the scroll.
"Yet he left only two works behind when he passed."
Mr. Winston Sr.'s eyes reddened.
The elder Sullivan had sacrificed everything for his family.
Even in death, he left few traces.
"I never thought I'd see the other one in my lifetime."
His voice choked up.
"Ethan, this gift is too precious."
Mr. Winston Sr. seemed hesitant to continue.
Sophia spoke at the right moment.
"Mr. Sullivan."
She turned to the man by the door.
"I'm borrowing this to restore the damaged painting."
She had to explain the risks.
"The process requires tracing and replication."
Sophia kept her tone steady.
"Even with utmost care, accidents can happen."
She met Ethan's gaze directly.
"You can still change your mind."
This was the elder Sullivan's legacy.
She understood its value.
Ethan's eyes darkened.
His footsteps sank into the plush carpet.
He stopped before the desk.
"I trust you, Ms. Sullivan."
His voice was firm.
A faint smile touched his lips.
"If it's you, no accidents will occur."
Absolute confidence.
The room fell silent.
Liam Winston frowned deeply.
He opened his mouth to sneer—
When a weight settled on his shoulder.
Chloe Evans leaned against him.
"Liam, I feel dizzy."
Her voice was weak.
Liam swallowed his words reluctantly.
Chloe seethed inwardly.
She'd recognized the look in Liam's eyes moments ago.
That was unmistakably the gaze one gave a romantic rival.
Sophia smiled slightly.
"Of course."
She wouldn't betray that trust.
"David, let's begin!"
The scroll unfurled slowly.
A winter landscape emerged—
Majestic snowscapes rendered with masterful strokes.