The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 383

Watching his overly dramatic expression, the corner of Suzie's mouth twitched upward for a fraction of a second before flattening out again.

"See? I was right!" Chester declared triumphantly. "And hey, don't be so prejudiced against galas. You're insulting my taste! Besides, do you really think I'd invite a stunning woman like you to some boring, pretentious event?"

Catching that microscopic hint of a smile, he laid the charm on thick.

Seeing that she wasn't actively trying to shut the door anymore, Chester quickly jogged around to the other side, opened the passenger door, and slid into the seat.

"Listen, Ms. Sterling, I'm not asking you to go so I can show you off, and I'm not just short a date. I genuinely think attending this event will be incredible for your career."

Chester spoke with infectious enthusiasm, his tone completely earnest.

Suzie gave him a sideways glance. "So you're saying I completely misunderstood your good intentions?"

He let out a low chuckle. "No, no, that's on me. I didn't explain myself properly from the start. My fault entirely."

Suzie took the invitation, skimming it as she listened. "My 'crumbs' pay the bills just fine. I'm content. Besides, my work is good, but I wouldn't compare myself to master photographers like her."

Sensing she was about to turn him down again, Chester panicked slightly. "Hey, don't sell yourself short! I've bought up pieces of your work. I might not be a photographer, but I know art. I have a good eye. And in my opinion, you're just as talented as Crystal Solomon."

When Suzie didn't argue, he pressed his advantage. "The only difference is that you refuse to show your face. People know the work, but they don't know the artist. If you just put yourself out there, I guarantee you'd outshine her in no time."