The Queen Returns—And She's Unforgiving

Evelyn's expression shifted subtly. She looked at Tiffany in surprise.

But Tiffany met her gaze with a poised, graceful smile that was composed and proud-not the slightest bit forced.

Flynn frowned and glanced over. "Ms. Reed, did you even read the signature? Every piece displayed in the Miller family's gallery is from a renowned artist. You can't force yourself to be one of them. You'll only end up embarrassing yourself."

The implication couldn't have been clearer. He was basically accusing Evelyn of trying to steal credit-claiming the glory of Millie's work for herself.

Tiffany, too, caught the unspoken message-that Evelyn's vanity was causing this scene. And frankly, Tiffany agreed.

Still, she didn't call her out on it directly. She simply said with a gentle tone, "This was the first painting my mother sold before moving overseas. I never expected to see it here. But..."

She turned to Evelyn with a smile. "Thanks for appreciating it. You've got a good eye, Ms. Reed."

Evelyn was stunned. She couldn't believe it was just a coincidence that this painting was so strikingly similar, and that Naomi's other half of the artwork just happened to go missing. And now, this so-called "original piece" by Millie was being showcased and sold at a premium?

If her instincts were right, this painting by Millie was probably connected to the controversy surrounding Naomi's graduation piece years ago.

Evelyn quickly composed herself. She knew very well that Millie only got into high society and caught the attention of wealthy patrons thanks to Naomi's support. That was how she went abroad and secured her citizenship overseas.

She gained fame by stepping on Naomi's shoulders. But Evelyn wasn't one to act rashly. Arguing here would only make things worse, especially since the painting was officially signed by Millie.

She adapted quickly and responded calmly, "I truly admire this piece. Would you please help me get in touch with Mr. Miller? I'm willing to pay a high price to purchase it."

After all, it could be evidence. If she could get her hands on it, she might someday uncover the truth.

"I'll take this painting," Tiffany suddenly said, her tone light but unmistakably assertive completely disregarding Evelyn's earlier request.

Evelyn turned toward her. Tiffany looked back, voice still soft, but her eyes coldly dismissive. "Sorry, but this piece holds great sentimental value to my mother. I'd like to return it to her."

With that, Evelyn would be seen as unreasonable by persisting. Her heart skipped a few beats. She turned to the gallery supervisor, who looked uneasy.

The gallery wasn't meant to sell anything today-but everyone present was someone he couldn't afford to offend. He looked over at Brandon, who raised an eyebrow and finally stepped in.

"I suppose I can make the call on this. It's just a painting, after all. But... who gets it, well, that's something you'll have to settle amongst yourselves."

"What if I want it?"

Lucas' voice came in casually from the side. Evelyn immediately looked at him.

He said calmly, "Please inform Mr. Miller of this. If he's willing to let it go, Bluezen is willing to give Miller Group 1% more in our partnership deal."

Evelyn stared at him, her gaze growing colder. Her heart sank along with it. Just to please Tiffany, he was willing to make such a huge business concession.

And yet, knowing how much she wanted that painting, he didn't even hesitate before cutting off her last hope.

"Mr. Grant, are you planning to give it to..." Brandon was surprised and couldn't help asking.

Lucas glanced at Tiffany. "See any others you like? We'll wrap them all up later." Tiffany's smile lit up with sweetness. "Lucas, thank you."

Their affectionate exchange was obvious to everyone. Lucas' intentions couldn't be clearer. He was doing all of this for Tiffany.

As long as Tiffany wanted it, Evelyn-even as his legal wife—had to step aside.

Evelyn's expression finally went cold. She knew, without a doubt, that going up against Lucas meant she didn't stand a chance.

Everyone around was now looking at her. And just as expected, they began to shake their heads.

Even Flynn walked over. "Out of everyone you could've competed with, why Tiffany? With Mr. Grant standing right here, do you think he'd ever let her leave disappointed?"

To him, challenging Tiffany was asking for humiliation.noveldrama