17
in the first few days after the wedding, Jack was especially high–profile.
He frequently brought Chloe to social events in our circle.
Photos of them appeared at every art exhibition, cocktail party, and luxury car brand–sponsored golf tournament.
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Even the sharpest–tongued gossip columnists remarked on how in love they seemed.
It was clear that Jack was truly sincere about Chloe this time.
In the past, whenever he was invited to such events, he would refuse with a bored expression.
He hated noise the most.
Now he was determined to introduce her to his connections, to help her integrate into the circle.
I ran into them again at an art exhibition.
They were surrounded by people, with Chloe expertly critiquing the paintings on the wall:
“This piece is by one of my favorite artists in abstract expressionism, easily in my top few. The unique texture of the colors and lines expresses the abstraction and fluidity of nature.”
The people around her offered perfunctory compliments.
I walked by and nodded hello to a few familiar faces.
I had no intention of lingering, but Chloe insisted on provoking
“Miss Ye, what do you think of this painting?”
me:
The people around us looked at me with interest, all knowing the history between Jack and me.
I was a bit annoyed:
“Mrs. J, it’s good to appreciate art, but explaining and analyzing is the job of the gallery sales manager,
“If you see a piece you like, just buy it.
“It’s beneath you to do someone else’s job like this.”
I could understand her eagerness to show off her artistic knowledge to fit in with the crowd.
But dragging me in to highlight her talents was a bit presumptuous.
She didn’t know that true elite children never entertain others by flaunting their talents.
Only those seeking favors need to please others. I’ve always been the one being pleased.
Chloe looked embarrassed by my words.
Jack rushed to defend his wife:
“Zoe, there’s no need to be so high and mighty. Chloe just genuinely loves art.”
This was even more absurd.
11azily put on a smile;
“if she truly loved art, she’d know this painting is Futurist, not abstract expressionism.”
*Look carefully at the small print below the painting, it’s written right there.”
I noticed Jack’s expression towards Chloe became a bit more scrutinizing.
After all, she had always claimed to have studied art.
I don’t know how Chloe managed to smooth things over, but that little incident didn’t affect their relationship.
Jack was determined to give Chloe enough face.
At the exhibition, he bought whatever piece she liked without hesitation.
At a cocktail party the next day, she wore that globally–coveted ruby necklace from the autumn auction.
Later, I don’t know how Jack managed it, but his family elders finally relented and allowed him to bring Chloe to Grandpa’s birthday banquet.
It was a grand affair that day, with many notable guests.
Chloe must have been instructed on etiquette, as she no longer flitted about, but stood properly by Jack’s side to greet guests.
When I went to
my
Millay wishes, I overheard Grandpa telling someone:
“Since that boy Jack likes
as
Gong as she behaves herself, our family can accept her.”
Sure enough, she was included in the family photo that day.
‘Chloe stood in the back row, arm in arm with
ck, smiling s
y
