CHAPTER THREE HUNDRED AND ELEVEN – CARLOS IS FOOLISH

As they moved through the gallery, Carlos's attempts to impress Jasmine became increasingly desperate and absurd. He declared a Picasso to be "clearly influenced by the Dutch Masters," and insisted that a delicate watercolor landscape was "undoubtedly painted with oils." By this point, Lucia and Marco had joined the tour, drawn by the spectacle of their brother's floundering. "Oh, please, do go on, Carlos," Lucia said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Tell us more about how this obvious Monet is actually a long-lost Da Vinci." Carlos glared at his sister. "I'll have you know that I've studied art extensively. In fact, I once spent an entire afternoon at the Louvre." Marco snorted. "Yes, I remember. You spent most of it complaining about your feet hurting and asking when we could go to the gift shop." Jasmine, feeling a mix of pity and amusement, decided to throw Carlos a lifeline. "You know, Carlos, art appreciation is subjective. There's no shame in admitting when you're not sur