When There Is Nothing Left But Love novel (Ashton and Scarlett ) novel Chapter 1516

As expected, the art gallery was packed with guests. We seemed to be a little out of place, being the only ones who showed up with the whole family.

Nathaniel was busy entertaining his other guests, so we decided to look around the gallery ourselves.

The gallery adopted the Epea architectural style from the last century. Its lobby with vaulted ceiling introduced a historic charm to the place. Under such an atmosphere, the oil paintings on the wall seemed to be veiled by a sense of mystery.

Standing in the middle of the lobby, John fixed his eyes on the Mona Lisa’s smile and gauged its authenticity. “Do you guys think it’s authentic or fake?”

“I suppose it’s authentic,” I blurted out. “Those who show up today are all prominent figures. Besides, Nathaniel is rich. I don’t think he would display a reproduction in his gallery.”

“What do you think?” John asked Ashton.

“Well, it can be authentic, and it can be fake. Actually, the oil paintings themselves have no value. They only gain popularity and rise in value because they are much sought after. To some extent, it is an excellent marketing tactic by attaching the artists’ feelings and life experiences to the artworks.”

“I’m not asking you about business. I’m asking you if the painting is authentic.” John grew serious as he put his hands in his pockets.

Ashton curled his lips into a cold smile. He stooped down to pick Audrey up and then replied nonchalantly, “Well, that depends on how many people believe in its authenticity.”

With that, he left with Audrey to look at the other paintings, leaving John and me behind.

Both of us shared a look and unanimously shrugged in resignation.

Ashton’s words indeed made sense. The art industry was not as simple as it seemed. It was a high-risk investment, just like stone gambling and stock investment, which could make a person go bankrupt and became debt-ridden.

Since Nathaniel could set up such a grand art gallery, he must be one of the few who got to lay down the rules in the industry. Hence, it was not surprising that he could make huge profits.