Page 172 of Lush

Arthur had even surprised me. I’d gotten a bonus during my recent employee evaluation—a substantial bonus. Money was soaring again, and I had more than enough to start my gallery.

“Did you ever think we’d have this?” he said, motioning to our family across the room.

“I didn’t,” I admitted, my heart swelling with warmth. “But look at us now. A happy ending.”

Reese’s new line, Rebel Spirits, was doing amazing. His infused liquor flowed freely at the party, and I watched as the guests enjoyed their drinks. It was going to be successful.

I grinned, reaching up to kiss him.

Arthur appeared. “Laurene, it’s time for your speech.”

“You got this, baby.” Reese kissed me again.

I slipped my hand from his and made my way to the small stage at the front of the room.

“Good afternoon, everyone,” I began. “Thank you all for being here today. This exhibit is incredibly special to me, not just because of the talent behind the works, but because of the stories they tell.”

As I spoke, I let my gaze wander over the paintings, taking in the faces, the art, the life that filled the gallery. This was my sanctuary, my place of strength.

“These pieces are more than just art. This collection is a testament to the power of art to heal, to inspire, and to connect us in ways that words often cannot. Each piece on these walls represents a journey. These artists have created something truly remarkable for us to experience today.”

I glanced over at Reese, finding him in the crowd. His presence gave me strength, grounding me in the moment. I continued, feeling more confident as I spoke.

“As a curator, my role is to bring these stories together, to create a space where they can resonate with each of you. Today, I hope that you find something in these works that speaks to you, something that challenges you, or even something that heals you.”

My voice remained steady as I spoke. I could hear someone’s heels clicking on the floor. I looked over to the entrance.

Mama was standing in the doorway.

The sight of her in that moment caught me off guard. My heart pounded, but I continued speaking.

“I have one more thing I want to share with you all.” I cleared my throat. “It is with great honor that I announce today that the gallery has become the second major donor to the King Foundation for Change. After nearly six years, my family’s foundation will be reinstated in honor of my grandfather, Ben.”

The crowd clapped, and I glanced over at my parents. My mother’s expression shifted, a quick, visceral change. Noelle, my sisters, Erik, and Reese’s family cheered.

I’d changed my mind. Lush was my home. Lush was inme.That meant I was going to make it a better place like all the Kings before me. It might be better. With Daddy’s blessing, in addition to my job at the gallery, I would be the president of the nonprofit.

Also, I liked working with Arthur and the team. My own gallery could wait for now.

“I also want to thank my family for their unwavering support in everything I do, especially my husband, Reese, the love of my life.”

A warm, genuine smile spread across Reese’s face.

“And to all of you here today, thank you for being a part of this moment. It’s your presence and your belief in what we’re doing that makes it all possible.”

With that, I stepped back slightly, giving a nod to Arthur and the gallery team. The room applauded, and I felt a surge of pride. Reese instantly swept me into his arms once I stepped off the stage.

“You were perfect,” he whispered, making me blush.

But I looked back over my shoulder at Mama, who had turned and was staring at theUnequal Marriageby Vasili Pukirev.

I patted Reese’s shoulders. “Excuse me.”

I walked slowly. Mama’s back was to me, her posture still stiff. I stopped a few feet away from her. A long silence hung between us. I studied the painting in front of me and I wondered if that’s what she saw when she looked at me—her finest artwork.

“You did a good job,” she said finally. Clipped.

I nodded. “Thanks.”

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