Covet: Trusting the Billionaire (The Trophy Wife Book 4) by Charlotte Rose Page B

earrings.
    Everything is as I expected, if not better. Classical music is playing softly throughout my art gallery. Each person has a glass of champagne in hand and walks around admiring the paintings while chatting quietly with others. Some are tilting their heads to the side, silently viewing each piece. Some are resting their fingers on their chins, closely examining and analyzing my work.
    Some of Julian’s wealthy acquaintances are here, as well as his close friends—Daniel, Phillip, Lance, Dimitri, Mark, Andrew, and Timothy—and their wives. Altogether, there are fifty-seven people at my private viewing.
    My assistant gathers everyone around the painting that I’ve designated “the showstopper.” It’s a 48-by-84 oil-on-canvas abstract with vibrant red, blue, yellow, and orange streaks of color portraying Paris, France. Like any abstract, when one simply looks at it, all he or she sees is streaks and blobs of color. However, on further inspection, buildings, streets, and people can be seen.
    I am very nervous and concerned about what the distinguished people whom Julian has invited will think of my artwork. I really hope my paintings are as good as Julian says they are. I don’t want to be labeled as another bored trophy wife pursuing a creative career with her husband’s money simply to occupy her time.
    Julian stands in front of the crowd, which is admiring “the showstopper.” He holds a microphone and gives a small speech, thanking everyone for coming and offering other formal niceties.
    He smiles proudly and locks eyes with me as I stand with sweaty palms and a constricted throat among the crowd. “I’d like to introduce my wife, Cheryl, the creative mind and talented artist behind all these masterpieces.”
    Everyone claps as I make my way to the front of the crowd and take the microphone from Julian. I clear my dry throat and put my quivering hand behind my back.
    “Thank you all so much for coming. It is a pleasure to introduce you to my first collection.” I gaze around at the well-dressed, refined, wealthy crowd as I wrack my brain for something else to say. I glance at Julian, who nods his head encouragingly.
    “I would like to first and foremost thank Julian for supporting me in my creative passions and persuading me to show my first collection. Without him, this collection would not be possible. I would also like to thank my friends and family for their encouragement. I found most of my inspiration for these painting from my travels with Julian. Many of the paintings feature architecture and culture I’ve seen in the various cities I’ve visited.” I smile as everyone watches me intently. I’m suddenly feeling more confident.
    The crowd claps and then disperses throughout my art gallery. Julian and I stand together, sipping on champagne while everyone takes their time to view my paintings. Every so often, individuals and couples approach us and make offers on certain paintings.
    At the end of the night I’ve received several offers. Julian is extremely impressed with the high interest in my work.
    A few painting are sold to Julian’s close friends. Several other paintings are purchased by Julian’s wealthy acquaintances who, as fine art collectors, purchase art from all around the world, from both known and unknown artists. Altogether, eight of my paintings are sold, at between five million and ten million Swiss franc.
    “I had doubts that anyone would make an offer,” I tell Julian once everyone has left.
    “I never doubted you; I hope you never doubt me,” Julian replies. “How does it feel to be a real artist?”
    “It feels amazing. It’s something I always dreamed of.”
    “I promised you that I would make all your dreams come true.” Julian gently brushes away a stray strand of hair from my face.
    “You did,” I confirm.
    “Any other dreams you want me to fulfill?”
    “I have everything I could ever want.” There is just one thing I still want—loyalty.
    “I have