Page 17 of Making A Mess of Things

“Excuse me,” he said, reaching them. “I need to speak to Suzy alone.”

“Daniel, just the person I want to see. I was telling Suzy how exquisite her artwork is. I want to purchase this piece of hers. I have the perfect spot for it in my mansion.” The man winked at her. “You’ve been hiding her from the world. She’s quite exquisite.”

Daniel clenched his jaw. “Suzy, let me introduce you to Nicholas Prows.”

“Oh,” she said, disappointment swimming in her like a dark current on a stormy day at sea.

He was the seducer Daniel had warned her about. It wasn’t her art he was interested in. It looks like she didn’t have next month’s rent after all. She’d never sell her piece to someone like him.

Daniel’s jaw tightened as his hands curled up into fists.

“Would you like to charge my card or—” Nicholas said.

“I’m afraid that one has been spoken for.” Daniel crossed his arms, glaring at Nicholas.

Suzy’s heart leaped. Her first painting sold, a dream come true if only this horrible man weren’t here to taint it, Nicholas. Not Daniel. She was starting to care about him more than she liked.

Nicholas straightened his shoulders. “Fine, I’ll take this one, then.” He pointed to her other piece. “It’s just as exquisite.”

“Oh, Nicholas,” said Vivian with a sour pout as she approached. “That one is sold. For you see, I found it absolutely divine myself. Why don’t you go lurk somewhere else? Like the bottom of the Great Salt Lake. My driver would be happy to give you a lift.”

“Vivian,” Nicholas said with a sly grin, “are you still bitter? It’s unbecoming of you.”

Her eyes narrowed. “You good for nothing, snake. Go slither your way elsewhere.”

“But I find the art interesting here. Don’t be sore. I still have your piece hanging in my living room above my fireplace. We had such an eventful evening together,” he replied. “Don’t spoil the memory of it.”

“Go to—"

“Vivian, let’s not lose our temper again. Marring your pretty face with anger would be such a shame.” Nicholas glanced at Suzy. “It was a pleasure meeting you.”

“I wish I could say the same,” she muttered, stepping back.

“I was going to say I hope we see each other again, but a scorned woman has already soured my reputation," he said with a scowl.

“I’m afraid we have nothing here for you.” Daniel pointed to the entrance. “Leave your glass on the tray before you head out.”

“You’re such a bore,” Nicholas said, plunking his glass down, liquid spilling over the brim. And your artists are second-rate at best. You won’t be getting my business again.”

“Good riddance.” Vivian raised her glass. “Let’s toast to the trash finally being taken out.”

“I’ll drink to that.” Daniel lifted his glass. “And fine art.”

Nicholas stalked out, bumping into people as he barreled through the gallery. “Move out of my way.”

Megan rushed over. Brent moved more slowly behind her, looking like he was in pain.

“What was that about?” Megan’s eyes were wide with concern. “Are you okay?” She touched Suzy’s arm.

Suzy barely nodded; her hands trembled, and her heart raced. She was grateful she escaped the clutches of that horrible man.

Vivian smiled brightly at the crowd, but her eyes told a different story. Nicholas must have treated her ill.

Thank goodness Daniel had quickly ended Suzy’s interaction with such an awful man. No wonder Daniel wanted to ban him from attending his events.

Daniel walked over to Vivian and spoke softly to her. Her eyes filled with gratitude, and she kissed his cheek before mingling with the other guests.

He came back to Suzy, Megan, and Brent. “Sorry about that—”

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