Page 24 of His to Possess
Molly nodded at me. "Laurel, I've been thinking about you for a special project August has. I believe your expertise would be invaluable."
August turned to me. "I'm spearheading a charitable initiative: an art restoration project aimed at revitalizing a historical collection of neglected paintings from local artists. This isn't just about preserving art; it's about honoring our community's cultural heritage."
As he spoke, I found myself drawn in by his passion and charm, despite my initial reservations. His eyes lit up as he described the initiative's potential impact, and I couldn't help but feel a spark of excitement. While most people aimed for the big names, and I was no exception, efforts like these were still close to my heart, and I found myself eager to participate.
"We're looking to engage students in the restoration process, but we need someone with your level of expertise to assess the artworks and guide the restoration. Your input would be crucial in ensuring these pieces are brought back to their former glory."
I felt a flutter of professional pride at his words. This was exactly the kind of opportunity that could help rebuild my reputation in the art world. The chance to work with students, to pass on my knowledge while contributing to such a meaningful cause, it was almost too good to be true.
August leaned in slightly, his voice lowering as if sharing a secret. "Your experience and eye for detail are exactly what this initiative needs. I've heard about your work in Europe, and I believe you could make a real difference here."
The fact that he knew about my past didn't sit well with me, but as my boss had recommended me, and he didn't seem bothered by it, I was reassured. Most of all, the prospect of diving into such a significant endeavor sent a thrill through me. It was a chance to immerse myself in the kind of work I loved, to make a tangible impact on the art community.
But as quickly as the excitement built, a nagging doubt crept in. My mind flashed to Rex's penthouse, to the contract I had signed, to the strict schedule that governed my days. I had made commitments; commitments that came with serious consequences if broken.
I forced a smile, trying to hide the internal conflict raging within me. "This sounds like an incredible opportunity. I'm honored that you thought of me for it."
I found myself caught in a whirlwind of conflicting emotions as August's offer hung in the air. The initiative he was proposing was exactly the kind of opportunity I had been yearning for—a chance to make a real impact, to restore my reputation in the art world. But the weight of my agreement with Rex pressed down on me, an invisible chain tethering me to his world.
"I… I'm truly honored by the offer," I began, my voice betraying a hint of uncertainty. Had he come to me with this proposal only a few days ago, I would've accepted it without thinking twice. Now, though, there were other factors I had to take into consideration. "It sounds like an incredible venture."
August's eyes narrowed slightly, a knowing look passing over his face. "I understand you may have other commitments," he said smoothly. "Rest assured, we can work around your schedule. I respect your current work at the institute and wouldn't want to interfere with that."
His words sent a chill down my spine. Did he know about my arrangement with Rex? The careful way he phrased his assurance made me wonder just how much he was aware of.
Before I could respond, Molly stepped in. "Actually," she said, her tone leaving no room for argument, "I think this is a perfect opportunity for you. We can easily reassign your current duties at the Institute to accommodate Mr. Mendelson's initiative. In fact, I insist that all of your usual worktime here be dedicated to this until it's completed."
I glanced between Molly and August, noting the subtle interplay of power between them. August's influence was palpable, and I couldn't help but wonder about the extent of his reach.
"That's very generous of you, Molly." I tried to keep my voice steady. "But my current assignment…"
"Is not as pressing as this opportunity," Molly interrupted, her smile not quite reaching her eyes. "Trust me, Laurel. This is good for you, and for the Institute."
The unspoken message was clear: refusing wasn't really an option. My heart raced as I realized the precariousness of my position. If I declined, I risked damaging my relationship with Molly and potentially jeopardizing my standing at the Institute. But accepting meant dividing my attention, potentially violating my agreement with Rex. What would be the consequences? My pulse quickened at the thought, but I attempted to keep my composure the best I could. He didn't seem like the kind of man who would be up for negotiations, though.
August leaned in slightly, his voice low and persuasive. "We would be honored to have your expertise on this initiative. Your insight could make all the difference in preserving these important pieces of our community's heritage."
The weight of the decision was pressing down on me. I was caught between two powerful forces. Rex's contract loomed in my mind, but the opportunity August presented was too good to pass up. More than that, I found myself genuinely excited about the prospect of teaching and mentoring students.
"Thank you. I'd be honored to be part of this endeavor. The chance to work with students and preserve our community's artistic heritage is truly exciting."
His eyes lit up, a triumphant smile spreading across his face. "Excellent. I'm thrilled to have you on board."
The excitement in his voice sounded like a warning. What had I just agreed to? My mind kept drifting to Rex. Was I supposed to tell him things like these? Or would he already know them somehow? Would he make a big deal out of it? I supposed there was only one way to find out.
Molly clapped her hands together, beaming. "This is wonderful news, Laurel. I knew you'd be perfect for this."
I nodded, trying to maintain my composure. "Thank you for thinking of me. Mr. Mendelson, could you tell me more about when we'll start?"
August leaned in slightly, his gaze intense. "I'm eager to begin as soon as possible. How about tomorrow? I'll have my assistant send over the details this afternoon."
"Tomorrow?" I repeated, my mind racing. Panic gripped me tightly. This was happening quickly, quicker than I expected.
He chuckled, a sound that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Time is of the essence in matters of art preservation, wouldn't you agree?"
I swallowed hard. "Of course. Tomorrow it is, then."
As the meeting wrapped up, August's parting words lingered in the air. "I look forward to working closely with you. I have a feeling this partnership will be enlightening for both of us."
