Chapter 9 - The Gallery of Light
Six months later, the Vale-Falkner Fine Art and Jewelry Gallery on Newbury Street opened its doors for its inaugural winter exhibition.
It was the most exclusive, anticipated cultural event of the year. Art critics, foreign dignitaries, and top-tier philanthropists packed the multi-level gallery space.
At the center of the main exhibition hall stood a stunning glass display case illuminated by warm halogen spotlights. Inside rested a single piece of jewelry: a magnificent platinum-and-emerald necklace titled The Scar of Dawn, designed entirely by Helena Vale. The intricate metalwork on the back clasp was shaped to resemble the delicate, beautiful curve of climbing ivy over a healed ribbon of tissue—a tribute to survival, strength, and the beauty found in scars.
Adrian stood beside her near the display, wearing a sharp charcoal tuxedo, his arm wrapped securely around her waist.
Margaret Vale, vibrant and smiling, stood nearby talking with the city’s chief surgeons, looking healthier than she had in a decade.
“They’re all staring at your work, Mrs. Falkner,” Adrian murmured softly against her ear, his breath warm.
Helena turned her head, smiling up at her husband. The emerald necklace caught the light, flashing brilliant green across her skin.
“They’re not staring at the jewelry,” Helena teased lightly. “They’re wondering if I’m going to foreclose on their mortgages next.”
May you like
Adrian laughed—a rich, deep sound that warmed the room better than any fire.
“Let them worry,” Adrian said, pulling her closer against his side. “My favorite artisan is too busy building an empire.”
