Chapter 66: A Shocking Discovery

The clinking of champagne glasses and the murmur of urbane conversation filled the Hartley Gallery air, but Nathan Carter heard none of it. His world had narrowed to a single focal point: Olivia Greene in emerald silk, radiating before one of her larger canvases, holding court. He moved a little closer, shielding himself from view behind a group of enthusiasts discussing some artwork. Then he heard the sound he had wanted to hear. The voice of Olivia washed over him with that characteristic warmth, speaking with passion as usual. "The chrysalis represents transformation, yes. but also vulnerability. There's a moment when the butterfly is neither caterpillar nor fully formed, just raw potential and fragility." Nathan's heart clenched. Even her artistic explanations seemed to hold deeper meaning. He was so engrossed in watching her that he barely caught the conversation taking place just to his left. "It's remarkable, isn't it?" a woman in a striking red dress remarked to her compani