Always Been Yours (Tessa and Nicholas) novel Chapter 615

Chapter 615
After a short moment of hesitation, Tessa agreed because Mona was coming along as well, and Scott had been a great help to her before this.
Hence, the three left for their destination by car. However, they didn’t know that this scene was witnessed by Kathleen, who was not far off, and her eyes dimmed as she watched the car disappear from her sight.
Then, Cindy’s annoying voice echoed in her ears.
“What is the problem with Tessa Reinhart? She knows that you like Mr. Brooks, but she’s still being so friendly with him. I think she just doesn’t give a hoot about you.”
She tried her best to drive a wedge between Kathleen and Tessa, as she wanted to use Kathleen to deal with that b*tch.
Since she lost to Tessa in the last assessment, she has been holding a grudge. She felt that Tessa had snatched the leading position which belonged to her simply because she didn’t think that she was lesser than Tessa, and it was all because Hathaway was biased.
Despite her anger, Kathleen didn’t lose her cool. Of course, she noticed Cindy’s effort at provocation and knew what she was planning in her mind.
However, Cindy was a fool if she thought that Kathleen was a brainless tool who would rise at such tasteless provocation.
A cold light flashed past her eyes, but she appeared protective of Tessa. “I believe Tessa and Scott only left together because they had something to do. But, don’t forget she’s already taken.”
Cindy was stumped for words as she didn’t think that Kathleen would react in such a way.
Meanwhile, Tessa had no idea what had happened, and they had already reached the antique shop’s entrance.
The store was located on the busiest street in Vienna, and the storefront was decorated traditionally. Two well-carved stone lions stood on both sides of the entrance giving the establishment a majestic air.
While showing the road, the butler briefed them about the place, “Someone from Xerthania owns this antique shop, and Master Nicholas has said that the goods inside are genuine. So, you don’t have to worry about buying counterfeits.”
Tessa nodded and brought Mona and Scott into the store.
She realized that it was akin to another world on the inside upon entering the store, and it was as large as four boutiques. In addition, many exquisite antiquities and treasures were proudly on display.
Even Mona and Scott were amazed by the things available in this establishment.
“Tessa, take a look at this vase. It’s so pretty.”
Attracted by a porcelain vase, Mona called out to Tessa in excitement to take a look, and she went over with a smile.
Right then, a lady dressed in a traditional long dress approached them politely and broached the subject, “Ma’am, this is not a regular vase but a type of porcelain art unique to Xerthania.”
As the shop assistant patiently launched into a detailed lecture of the items’ origins to them, looks of amazement appeared on Mona and Scott’s faces. After all, these were historical antiques that were both intriguing and mysterious to them.
As for Tessa, she listened intently as well, but she didn’t forget the purpose of her visit this time.
“Hello, I would like to ask if you have any traditional string instruments or the likes of it?” she asked when the shop assistant was finished expounding on an item.
Was
Her words reminded Mona and Scott of the purpose of their visit, and they turned to the shop assistant, who nodded thoughtfully.
“Yes, please come this way,” she answered and led the way courteously, bringing them into another studio.
Once they entered, Tessa realized that this was a room specifically for musical instruments.
There were zither, lute, flutes, and many other instruments.
Nevertheless, a zither made out of wood casing hanging on the wall had caught her eyes.
“Can I please have a look at that zither?”
The shop assistant nodded in acquiescence and carefully took it off the wall. Mona and Scott came over when they heard her request.
“What kind of instrument is this? It looks weird.”
With curiosity alight in her eyes, Mona stared at the zither, then cast a puzzled look at Tessa.
She smiled gently as she explained while examining the zither carefully, “It’s a string instrument unique to Xerthania.”
The zither was made of Paulownia wood, and cherry blossoms were engraved on the lacquer of the instrument. It was an aged instrument, but it was clearly well cared for.
She plucked the strings for a quick soundcheck, which resulted in a distinct and pleasing sound echoing in the studio.