CHAPTER EIGHTY FIVE -IN FRONT OF V.I.Ps

Jasmine and Beth exchanged a bemused look as the enthusiastic impresario continued. "Only the most distinguished dignitaries and esteemed talent have received coveted invitations. Why, we're talking cutting-edge creative icons rubbing elbows with Hollywood's elite entertainers and the upper empyrean of global trendsetters!" With a flourish, he produced two thick ivory-colored envelopes bearing the convention's ornate insignia. Jasmine accepted hers hesitantly. "I...wow, that's incredibly flattering. But are you sure there hasn't been some kind of mistake?" She eyed the embossed writing spelling out her full name. "I'm just a featured guest, not exactly a creative maverick or celebrity." Gary threw back his head with a peal of husky laughter. "Are you quite daft, my dear? Your masterworks have blazed a trail for the modern avant-garde! We'd be utterly remiss not to showcase such burgeoning genius in the fullest of spotlights." "I mean...I did just get a pretty valuable painting sto