Veil of Shadows

Hidden Canvases

Chapter 3: Hidden Canvases

Elise’s words echoed on the misty bridge, her tailored coat catching the moonlight. “The Cranes built their name on secrets,” she said, her voice sharp. “You’re a risk Julian can’t take.”

Julian’s jaw clenched, his hand finding Evelyn’s. “She’s not a risk, Elise,” he said, his voice low, fierce. “She’s my choice.” Evelyn’s heart raced, but doubt lingered—could she pierce the Crane family’s veil?

At Galerie Nocturne, Evelyn’s surrealist exhibit won a reclusive collector, earning her a promotion to lead curator. Theo clapped her shoulder, his grin warm. “You’re a bloody star, Harper.” Nora’s scowl was a storm, her jealousy palpable.

Over coffee in a Old Town café, its walls lined with velvet, Theo’s charm disarmed Evelyn. “You’re shaking this place up,” he said, his green eyes lingering. “Don’t let the Cranes snuff you out.” His flirtation stirred confusion—Julian’s intensity was a flame, but Theo’s ease felt safe.

At a girls’ night in a rooftop bar, Prague’s spires glittering below, Nora, loosened by absinthe, spilled her past. “Julian was mine,” she slurred, her eyes sharp. “Engaged, until he broke it for ‘independence.’ He’ll break you, too.” Lena rolled her eyes, whispering, “She’s obsessed, Evelyn. Watch out.”

Evelyn and Julian stole a moment in a tram, Prague’s lights blurring past. His kiss was electric, his voice a vow. “I don’t care about their rules,” he murmured, his fingers in her curls. “I want you.” A paparazzi flash shattered the moment, and tabloids screamed: American Curator Targets Crane Heir. Her parents’ call was furious. “Come home, Evelyn!” her mother pleaded.

Cliffhanger: Julian vowed to fix the scandal, his eyes fierce. “I’ll protect you,” he said, pulling her close. But his father, Victor, called, his voice cold. “End this, Julian.” Evelyn overheard, her heart twisting. Would she fight or flee?