ARIEL'S POV

I swallowed a lump, feeling my heart misbehave as I watched Ravenna take out the two medium-sized paintings.

One was of a sophisticated-looking lady in a red gown, standing in a garden of roses, gently touching the flowers. She looked… content. I had fallen in love with the portrait at first glance because I loved roses. But when I saw him buy it, I was confused—most of the ones in his room had darker themes.

After I heard about his bride, I was certain she was the reason he got it. Maybe he wanted to add some warmth to the room they’d probably be sharing. I never imagined...