Several days later.
Sophia Sullivan was busy working in the company's perfume lab when her phone vibrated.
She glanced at the screen.
It was David Macmillan calling.
"Ms. Sullivan," David's voice carried a tentative tone. "Would you honor us by being a guest lecturer at our Treasure Appraisal Institute for a special session on artifact restoration?"
He paused, his tone apologetic.
"My students heard about the painting-within-a-painting technique and are clamoring to meet you. I thought this could be an eye-opening experience for them..."
The call ended.
Ethan Sullivan had appeared silently behind her.
"Planning to accept?" he asked.
Sophia turned, her fingertips still carrying traces of fragrance.
"I owe him a favor," she said, gazing out the window. "He dropped everything to help me last time."
She set down the perfume blending rod.
Closed her open notebook of fragrance formulas.
"Care to approve some time off, Mr. Sullivan?"
Ethan placed a file on the table.
His gaze was profound.
"I've been meaning to visit Mr. Macmillan," he said evenly. "We could go together."
He tilted his head slightly.
"Unless you mind showing me around the Treasure Appraisal Institute?"
Sophia chuckled.
"Let's go."
...
One hour later.
The black Rolls-Royce Phantom glided into the suburban cultural center.
The fusion of ancient and modern architecture created a timeless atmosphere.
From afar, Sophia spotted David waiting at the entrance with his assistant.
"Master Ning!"
David couldn't conceal his excitement.
His invitation had been a long shot.
Yet here stood the legendary expert herself.
Then he noticed the tall figure behind her.
His expression faltered.
"Mr. Sullivan is joining us too?"
"He's here for the show," Sophia said casually.
David's eyes darted between them.
Then he beamed.
"Your presence honors us greatly!"
They followed the winding cobblestone path.
Through the intricate antique-style corridors.
Sophia walked as if tracing the patterns of time itself.
Above them, the grand hall displayed glittering antiques on ornate shelves.
"We're here," David stopped before an amphitheater.
Every seat was occupied.
He cleared his throat and entered first.
Outside, Sophia turned to Ethan.
"Would you like to explore first? I'll find you after class."
Ethan stood impeccably in his tailored black suit.
His commanding presence had drawn stares throughout their walk.
"Unnecessary," he said calmly. "I'd like to attend your lecture."
A glint of interest flashed in his eyes.
"I've never seen you teach before."
Sophia arched an eyebrow.
"Suit yourself."
When she stepped onto the podium, thunderous applause erupted.
David made an enthusiastic introduction.
"This is Master Ning! Her restoration skills surpass even my own!"
Though middle-aged, his voice rang with vigor.