"The oil painting was merely a pretext to dismiss Lennie. Even if there were indeed a Seath's masterpiece in need of restoration, I'd only trust it to the hands of celebrated conservators, certainly not yours," Andrei said with unvarnished scorn, leaving Isabel feeling slighted.
"Since there's nothing to restore, I'll take my leave."
After speaking, Isabel turned to depart.
"Given that Lennie's men are likely waiting at the doorstep, are you sure you want to step out now? Before tomorrow, Lennie could deduce your lack of utility to me. What do you think she'll resort to then?"
His blunt threat caused Isabel's hand to pause on the doorknob.
"How long am I expected to stay in your room?" Isabel inquired after hesitation.
"A restoration takes no less than a month," he replied.
Observin
