Chapter 52: Plotting

When the painting, “Anya in the wind,” was finally unveiled, Anya’s breath caught in her throat. She had never thought she would get to see it again. But as the bidding began, Anya’s excitement turned to dismay. The price quickly soared beyond her budget, and she realized quickly that even if she worked for a hundred years, she wouldn’t be able to afford it.   Desperation gnawed at Anya as she watched the bids climb higher and higher. She could not lose this painting again. Her agitation grew as her eyes found their way over to Daniel, who was watching the proceedings with a look of quiet determination. And then, to her utter shock, he raised his paddle.   Anya’s heart sank as Daniel’s bid was accepted, and the gavel fell with a decisive thud. The painting was his.   After the auction ended, Anya tapped Daniel by the shoulder, causing him to turn. She knew she had to swallow her pride and ask him for a conversation, no matter how much she disliked the idea.   “Daniel,” she said