Chapter 8

The Grand Atrium of the Manhattan Museum of Fine Arts was a sea of glittering crystal, bespoke tuxedos, and haute couture. Champagne flowed from cascading towers, and a string quartet played a lively Vivaldi piece from a raised mahogany balcony. It was the premier event of the autumn soci

Chapter 9

The morning sun poured through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the Vanguard Auctions executive penthouse, casting a warm, golden glow over the sleek mahogany furniture and modern art installations. It was a stark contrast to the cold, clinical precision currently taking place inside the r

Chapter 10

The Croft Gallery smelled of expensive lilies, artisanal champagne, and desperate ambition.

Julian Croft stood near the entrance of the sprawling, ultra-modern space, a glass of vintage Dom Pérignon in his hand, projecting the image of a conqueror. The gallery walls were pristine, star