Page 65 of Marked By Moonlight
Mina put a hand over her heart. “I’m touched. Really. But I think it’s better to leave this to the experts. I’m sure Anastasia will feel as comfortable with someone from Christie’s or Sotheby’s.”
A public auction, in other words.
Gordon shook his head. “She refuses to go that route. Too much bureaucracy, not to mention the outrageous commissions they charge.”
My dragon snorted.And too many questions about how she’d come into possession of a masterpiece that went missing during World War II.
“Well, I can suggest a few museums…” Mina tried again.
Gordon nodded eagerly. “You can suggest them to Madame Petrova.”
Not what she meant, and he knew it.
“But—”
Gordon cut in, practically patting Mina on the head like a child. “Working with Madame Petrova means you can ensure the painting finds its way into good hands.”
Unlikely, given the contacts in his network.
Mina studied her feet miserably.
“Your father would be so excited. So proud,” Gordon murmured.
Damn the bastard for going for her soft spot.
Mina’s eyes went glassy, and I sensed the same roiling emotions she’d shown in London. The painting had made her weep, and I guessed that had as much to do with her father as the canvas.
“He would be.” She flashed a sad smile.
Gordon’s was more of a crocodile smile, and I knew she was done for.
“It’s the opportunity of a lifetime,” he said, giving the screws one more twist. “An opportunity your father would tell you to jump at.”
Mina’s throat bobbed, and she nodded slowly. “All right. I’ll do it.”
I winced. Bene and Roux too. Henrik looked at his fingernails, like he couldn’t care less.
Gordon practically rubbed his hands in glee. “Wonderful, wonderful. You won’t regret it.”
Oh, she definitely would.
“Now, on to the logistics,” Gordon continued. “As mentioned, I’ll need security to travel to London with Mina — not that I expect any issues, of course.”
Liar,my dragon rumbled.
“Therefore, Henrik will accompany Mina to London and remain there until the deal is closed.”
Mina’s eyes just about popped out of her head, and Henrik jerked his chin up.
“Henrik?” She paled.
“Me?” he protested at the same time.
My dragon lashed its tail in rage.
“Yes. Is there a problem?” Gordon’s voice took on a dangerous tone.
Roux gritted his teeth, and Bene pleaded with Mina with his eyes. Henrik too. But I willed her to speak the truth. Anything to keep her safe, even if it doomed us.
