Chapter 17

Celeste's comment sucked the air right out of the room - everyone went quiet, sharp breaths filling the silence. Oliver's expression shifted instantly; his voice came out panicked as he tried to explain, "I got it from Mr. Goodwin ages ago. I just figured Grandpa liked Lior's calligraphy, so I brought it. I swear, there was nothing shady about it. Grandpa, don't take it the wrong way." "Enough." Mr. Shaw's tone was sharp, his face already darkening. "Mr. Kyre was a man of integrity, someone we should look up to. And now you can't even explain where this artwork came from? That says everything. Let's just stop here. Don't bring this up again. Put the painting away-fake or real, I don't care. Just pretend I never saw it. Be more careful next time." With that, Mr. Shaw turned, face cold and distant. "We've all had some wine. I've got things to take care of, so I won't be staying. Celeste, Ethan, you two stay and take care of things." In political families, the last thing anyone wants is t