Chapter 26: Chapter 26

She stiffened, more in annoyance than fear. She shot him a look, much like a school teacher admonishing a particularly naughty student. "And it would be a shame for you to lose your steady stream of artwork because you murdered her in a fit of childish rage," she said steadily picking up her cup of coffee and taking a sip. She set it down quickly with a look of disgust. She did not enjoy Greek coffee.

He waved an arm around the luxurious room in which they were seated. "You think I couldn't do without the income you bring me? Don't be absurd."

She smiled coolly and replied, "No, Ivan, I think you can't live without the paintings you keep for yourself." She watched the slight flare of surprise on his handsome face before the shutters came down. "Don't think I don't know exactly which commissions you keep for yourself. We both know I'm a curious kitty. I watch the market, I know which paintings sell and to whom. I also know which ones stay with the master."