Ava's POV
The moment I stepped into the art gallery, a wave of awe swept over me. The hall was breathtaking. A sea of glass chandeliers hung from the ceiling, catching the soft amber light and scattering it across the polished marble floor. The air smelled faintly of lavender and old books, mixed with the sharper scent of wine drifting from the open bar. Guests moved about in elegant clothing, murmuring in cultured tones as they admired the canvases that lined the walls, abstract strokes of red and blue, lifelike portraits, bronze sculptures frozen mid-motion. Every corner shimmered with wealth and artistry, and I felt both out of place and yet exactly where I needed to be.
Jason had messaged me three days earlier, reminding me that it was important I attend with him, to keep up appearan
