Brandon harbored a deep dislike for Clyde. With a frosty gaze, he eyed the ticket in Clyde's hand and icily retorted, "Janet has no intention of accompanying you. Be gone."
Yet, upon seeing the ticket, Janet's eyes betrayed a flicker of uncertainty.
Clyde detected the wavering in her gaze and couldn't help but smirk triumphantly. "Mr. Larson, perhaps you're unaware, but this ticket grants access to an art exhibition held by the esteemed Nelson Nixon. He mentored the famed designer, Draco Wesley, and is a renowned artist within the industry.
His age advances, and this may very well be his final exhibition. Professionals throughout the industry are clamoring to attend. Such tickets are now exceptionally rare. Surely, you understand, Mr. Larson?"
Clyde was well aware that no one in the design world could resist the allure of Nelson's art exhibition. He seized this opportunity to extend an invitation to Janet, not only to spend time alone with her but also to undermine Brandon.
In his mind, a man ignorant of art hardly deserved to be Janet's husband.
As Janet wavered, Brandon's expression grew stormy.
Pausing briefly, Clyde continued to mock, "Mr. Larson, your expertise lies in business, not design or art. Nonetheless, you shouldn't hinder your designer wife from attending the exhibition, should you?"
Suddenly, Brandon recalled his dismal performance in school art classes and his woeful lack of artistic knowledge. His countenance darkened further.
Regardless of his unfamiliarity with art, if he desired entrance to Nelson's exhibition, he could easily acquire tickets. He didn't require Clyde's charity.
Janet found amusement in Brandon's reaction and gently touched his hand, signaling for him to remain composed.
She regarded Clyde coolly, asking, "Is your apology genuine?"
Sensing a window of opportunity, Clyde eagerly nodded. "Absolutely! I sincerely hope you can forgive my previous thoughtlessness!"
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Substitute Marriage With the Illegitimate Son