Page 48 of My Ex's Best Friend

“What does it look like?”

She just shakes her head and doesn’t say anything.

He leads us upstairs, and this time, Kiera says, “See, we’re getting somewhere.”

“Maybe you are,” I mutter.

We stop in front of another painting. I recognize this one almost immediately, even though the name eludes me.

"It's remarkable how Brugghen captures emotions so subtly," she remarks, obviously enjoying the conversation, not merely pretending.

Meanwhile, I’ve been cast aside. Both of them ignore me. I lean against the banister and observe them.

Mr. Richards, clearly pleased with Kiera's discerning eye, responds, "Indeed, my dear. 'The Flute Player' here is a testament to Brugghen's mastery. The intricate details of how he brings life to his subjects— it's a feast for the eyes."

I make a sound at the back of my throat.

Kiera throws me a dirty look.

“Don’t you appreciate Brugghen, Mr. Bennett?” Mr. Richards asks.

“I do, but Kiera has the expertise when it comes to classical artists,” I say honestly.

“Perhaps you haven’t studied this particular time period,” he says. “Say, did you study art in college?”

“I majored in business, but I come from a family of artists.”

“Then perhaps you should learn to appreciate them more,” Mr. Richards shoots back.

What is his problem exactly?

“Your wife has such an appreciation for art. You've got a good one there,” Mr. Richards says.

I'm momentarily caught off guard by the assumption.

Kiera has turned a shade of beet red.

Clearing my throat, I correct the misunderstanding. "She's not my wife, Mr. Richards. Kiera is a valued associate, a colleague with an exceptional eye for art."

"Well, Jacob, you certainly know how to pick associates. Keep her close, and maybe one day she'll convince you to appreciate 'The Concert' as much as I do."

“Certainly, sir,” I say.

Mr. Richards, glancing at his watch, interjects, "It seems time has a way of slipping through our fingers. How about we continue our discussion over dinner tomorrow evening? I'd love to hear more of your insights, young lady."

What the fuck? He’s actually asking her out to dinner now?

Kiera nods. “I would love that. But let me just check in with Jake.”

"Unfortunately, we have prior commitments tomorrow, but I'll have my secretary arrange a meeting. Perhaps we can discuss further then?"

Mr. Richards, seemingly unfazed, agrees with a nod. "Of course, Jacob. I'll be expecting your call."

“The name’s Jake,” I say under my breath.

As we step out of Mr. Richard's residence, Kiera shoots me an incredulous look. "What was that back there? You acted like a total ass."

I adopt a nonchalant demeanor, feigning innocence. "I have no idea what you're talking about.”

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