As the crowd egged them on, Jade squirmed in discomfort. Though she didn't know what gift Alaric had prepared, he'd hinted at one word: painting.
Alaric wasn't entirely foolish—he'd specifically brought Mr. Caldwell's painting.
But Jade remained unaware.
She instinctively assumed Alaric had simply bought some decorative piece.
Meanwhile, Alan's Companions of the Spring Mountain by Elias was stealing the spotlight, showered with praise from everyone!
That priceless treasure made whatever painting Alaric held seem worlds apart in comparison.
Presenting it now would only invite humiliation.
"It's just a gift, nothing worth fussing over," Jade spoke up for Alaric while giving him a withering look.
If they embarrassed themselves before this crowd today, she'd hold it against him forever
