Chapter 69
Chapter 69 Unveiling the Painting
Chapter 69 Unveiling the Painting
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Arabella understood that Florence had seen countless beautiful things in her life; asking was just a way of showing interest and support.
“I only picked up a few small items. Let’s go inside and I’ll show you p>
“Alright, let’s go in.” With that, Florence took Arabella’s hand and walked into the house, passing Naomi and Ruby without a second glance.
Ruby watched, jealousy simmering, as Florence ushered Arabella inside with such obvious care. “So she went to an auction–big deal. You go to auctions all the time! I’ve never seen Aunt Florence waiting at the door for you. She’s being more and more unfair…” she muttered under her breath to Naomi.
Hearing it put that way, Naomi too felt that Florence was growing kinder to Arabella and, by comparison, paying her less attention. When she herself returned from auctions in the past, Florence would compliment her acquisitions, but she had never once waited for her at the front door like this.
It really was different for a biological daughter.
Naomi’s mood soured slightly. A little irritated, she whispered back, “Enough. Stop complaining where someone might hear you p>
Seeing Naomi’s displeasure, Ruby fell silent.
“Come on, Naomi, let’s go inside and see for ourselves. Let’s find out if she actually got something good or just got swindled p>
A part of Ruby desperately hoped the items Arabella brought back were all worthless fakes.
Listening to Ruby, Naomi, for a fleeting momen, also felt a pang of hope to see Arabella proven foolish. Even though she knew it was an uncharitable thought, it offered a petty sort of comfort.
When they entered the living room, Jonathan was seated on the sofa, leisurely watching television. Seeing Arabella return, he muted the TV and looked over at her with affectionate eyes. “Arabella, you’re back p>
“Yes,” Arabella replied with a slight nod.
Florence said to Jonathan with a smile, “Arabella brought back some treasures from the auction p>
Hearing that, Jonathan’s face immediately brightened with interest. “Oh? Well then, I’ll have
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Chapter 69 Unveiling the Painting
to take a proper look p>
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“By the way, Arabella,” Jonathan added with concern, “why didn’t you tell me you were going to an auction? I could have gone with you. And did you have enough spending money p>
Although they had given Arabella a generous allowance since her return, he wasn’t sure it would cover auction purchases.
“It was enough. I was in a bit of a rush this morning, so I didn’t mention it. But I brought back the best pieces from today’s event. You can see them here without having to go p>
Even if Jonathan had known earlier, she would have found an excuse not to bring him. Otherwise, how could she have kept her identity as Marla concealed?
As she spoke, Arabella carefully unrolled the “Phoenix Reborn” painting. Instantly, a stunning artwork was displayed before everyone.
“Mom, Dad, this is a ‘Phoenix Reborn‘ piece, over a hundred years old, by the artist Patrick. I’d like to hear your thoughts,” Arabella said, looking at them.
“Alright, let me see,” Jonathan said, leaning forward for a closer inspection. “Not bad at all. The theme of rebirth and the integration of the landscape elements are quite striking,” he observed, his eyes lighting up with genuine appreciation.
“Yes, it’s so vibrant and full of grandeur. It seems to celebrate enduring life and timeless beauty. It’s really quite magnificent,” Florence added, unable to help her praise.
“Arabella, I didn’t realize you had such an eye for painting. That’s impressive!” Jonathan looked at Arabella with clear admiration.
Arabella offered a humble smile. “I’m just glad I didn’t make a poor choice p>
Ruby and Naomi felt a twinge of disappointment that their hope of seeing Arabella fooled hadn’t materialized. Seeing she had indeed acquired a work by a recognized artist, Naomi couldn’t help but feel a stab of surprise.
Ruby, already disheartened, wore a disdainful expression as she listened to the praise. She frowned and said, “I don’t see what’s so special. The color palette is far too bold p>
Hearing this, Jonathan and Florence exchanged look of mild exasperation. What an uninformed thing to say! After all, she’d grown around Naomi and had been exposed to fine things. How could she be so lacking in discement?
Noticing their looks, Naomi gently elbowed Ruby, signaling her not to speak out of turn about things she didn’t understand. Ruby glance at them and immediately fell silent,
chastened.
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Chapter 69 Unveiling the Painting
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Seeing her confusion, Naomi leaned in and quicly explained, “You don’t understand. This ‘Phoenix Reborn‘ has exquisite composition and technique, with a real sense of power. The flowing style brings the myth of rebirth to life p>
“Arabella really did get a remarkable piece this time p>
Hearing Naomi also compliment Arabella, Ruby looked at her in disbelief and whispered, “Naomi, why are you praising her p>
“It’s not praise. It’s just an objective observation, Naomi stated seriously.
Seeming to value Naomi’s input, Jonathan turned to her. “Naomi, what’s your take on this piece?” He knew Naomi had cultivated an interest in the arts from a young age and was curious to hear her perspective.
Being asked directly, Naomi felt obliged to respond. “The brushwork and pigmentation are masterful. It’s incredibly vivid and captures the essence of the phoenix myth beautifully. I believe it’s a significant work p>
Hearing Naomi’s assessment, Jonathan smiled with satisfaction. “Well, your understanding is quite sound p>
Sara Lili
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.