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One careless part of me wants Jack to say everything I can’t. That Bill underestimated Alice. That he took advantage of her inbuilt family devotion and leveraged it for obedience. An arranged marriage to an asshole who doesn’t give a toss about her.

But this is not a private space, even though people are leaving. Alice herself is still standing just a few feet away. Her success shouldn’t become a contest between two powerful men.

“Bill,” I say, “Camilla may need you for the photographs.”

His attention turns to me and I almost recoil in shock when Jack slings one arm across my shoulders. The action is so sudden I nearly spill my champagne.

“Bryce has been absolutely invaluable this evening,” Jack says.

Every muscle in my body locks. No. Jack holds me easily against his side. On purpose. Too familiar. Too public. Too late to shrug him off without making the moment worse.

Bill’s gaze drops to Jack’s hand on my shoulder, and Jack carries on before I can stop him.

“It’s been lovely having him involved in the art scene. He has excellent taste. Impeccable.”

My stomach falls.

“Jack,” I say, but it falls on deaf ears. His stare is locked onto Bill, not me.

Jack laughs. “Bryce has been recommending all sorts of things in all areas of the art world. In all areas of life.”

“I offered an opinion,” I say.

“Many opinions,” Jack says. “Very useful ones. So insightful.”

The message is blatant. It simmers in the air.

Jack’s arm remains across my shoulders while he smiles at Bill. He’s antagonising him on purpose, and I know it.

He wants Bill to be suspicious. He wants Bill to perceive us as a united front, unafraid.

Except I am afraid. Very afraid. I’m shitting myself so badly my legs feel weak. Heart racing in terror.

Not of Bill tonight, but of what happens afterwards.

My boss turns his attention fully to me.

“Nice to see you lived up to your obligations, Bryce.”

I know exactly what he’s talking about. It feels like a blade is passing between my ribs as I step away from Jack’s arm.

“I have many obligations, Bill. These here tonight, are art related. The auction has been a privilege.”

Bill looks at the champagne in my hand.

“I’m pleased to hear it. Reliability is such an important quality in a person. Sensibility is a fine trait.” Bill turns back to Jack. “I appreciate your enthusiasm for my daughter’s work, Mr Reid. However, I would advise against confusing one successful evening with a change in her circumstances. There isn’t going to be one.”

Jack’s smile disappears.

“I don’t think I’m the one who’s confused here, Bill.”

The people nearest us are beginning to notice. The tension ripples at the tone.

Alice must pick up on what’s occurring. Her eyes widen as she leaves Helena and comes towards us, with Christopher immediately following in her wake.

“Dad?” Alice says. “Are you alright?”

“You should say your goodbyes,” Bill tells her. “Your mother and I will be waiting at the car.”