Chapter 0457
Peter turned to look at the woman who had consumed his thoughts all day. He smiled and said, “Yes? What’s the matter, Celeste?”
With a hint of hesitation, she replied, “The event organizer sent me to find you. Apparently, he needs to discuss something with you, but he didn’t say what. Peter, please don’t feel obligated to buy anything if you don’t want
to.”
“Don’t worry,” Peter said casually as he stepped closer to her. “That’s something I rarely do. Besides, I doubt there’s much left to buy–Theodore practically purchased everything in the gallery.”
Suddenly, a cold breeze swept through, causing Celeste’s slain to goosebump. Peter noticed and instinctively pulled her close to his chest. She felt her cheeks flush with warmth. Since meeting him the day before, Peter had shown her many small acts of kindness, all of which she noticed.
“Well, let’s see what your colleague needs,” Peter said, gently lifting her chin.
Celeste quickly stepped back, aware of the curious glances from others arriving at the gallery. As they walked back inside, they found the man who had sent Celeste to fetch Peter.
“Mr. Palmer, sorry to bother you. I just needed to confirm the shipping details for the paintings you’ve purchased. I didn’t see Mr. Bennett today.”
“Not a problem. I can handle it,” Peter replied.
“Some paintings are to be sent to this address in Westhaven, while others are explicitly marked for Slovenia?”
“That sounds right. We originally lived there. The house is large, and although we recently moved, my friend is a nostalgic man. He likes to keep the Slovenian home well–maintained.”
“I see. I thought it might have been a mistake, but now that you’ve confirmed it, I have no further questions. Thank you for your help!” The man nodded and walked away.
Celeste watched him go, then turned to Peter with a hint of curiosity in her voice.
“You’re not planning to stay in Valentia?”
Peter glanced at her, noting the nostalgic tone in her question.
“Theodore is a sentimental man. He enjoyed living in Slovenia, and our house there is spacious and needs decorating. Why do you ask?”
Celeste froze for a moment. She hadn’t meant to voice her thoughts aloud–it had just slipped out.
“Just curious…”
Peter understood what she wasn’t saying. He saw a flicker of unease in her eyes, smiled warmly, and asked, ” What time are you planning to leave the gallery tonight?”
Celeste hesitated, caught off guard by the question. His intense gaze made her nervous.
“Well… I was planning to leave a little earlier today. I’m feeling a bit tired and asked a friend to cover for me.”
“Perfect. Can I take you home?”
She looked at him with wide, surprised eyes.
“Mr. Palmer, I don’t want to trouble you. You already know how far I live.”
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