Page 79 of The Prize

“My family owns everything there is that’s of interest. We own all the juicy artwork, leaving places like your gallery with the dregs.” Eli threw me a glare of triumph. “We have the greatest private collection of art in the world.”

That wasn’t true, but Eli seemed to want to believe it because he was a prisoner of his own ego.

I prayed the tourists stayed around to witness what they did to us. “Ever going to share your art with the world?” I asked.

“Fuck no.” Eli glared at me. “The public wouldn’t recognize a masterpiece if you put it in front of them. Did you see that social experiment where one of the most famous violinists, Magnus Mayburn, played his Stradivarius in Central Park? People just walked by. No ear for genius. The fucking hoi polloi have no comprehension when it comes to art. The fuckers don’t deserve it. It’s up to the leaders of the world to hide it away and protect it. We get to enjoy it because we know its worth.”

“Art is more than the money it’s worth,” I told him. “It’s the language of the soul.”

Eli gave an arrogant smirk.

Tobias drew his words out slowly. “Leonardo da Vinci’s otherMona Lisahas surfaced here. And I know where she’s being auctioned.” He raised his hand in caution. “This is a private affair. No one must know.”

“This isn’t strictly legal?” Eli shifted his feet. “If you’re bullshitting me I will end you.”

Tobias continued unfazed, “Tomorrow evening after my charity ball, a select group of art collectors will be invited to personally rub shoulders with the otherMona Lisa. If the offer is right the seller is open to parting ways with her.”

Eli swapped a wary glare with his men. “If she was here I’d know.”

“Apparently not.”

“Who is this man?”

“The owner has requested to remain anonymous,” I piped up, and it was the truth at least. “The painting is not without its complications.”

Eli tilted his head with intrigue. “Are you going to bid on her?”

“If I can liquefy some assets,” said Tobias. “I’m offering you a fair shot at the prize.”

“I want in that room,” said Eli. “This is not a request, Wilder.”

“I’m sure I can persuade them.”

“Where’s the auction being held?”

“Private room at The Rose Club at The Plaza.” Tobias shoved his hands into his pockets. “She’ll be guarded heavily. Staff will not be given access to the room when she arrives. No one will know she’s there. Take my view time of 10:00 p.m. You’ll be the first person in—”

“Might as well cancel the other bidders, Wilder.” Eli sneered at him.

“You’re free to bring an authenticator. One only.”

“I’m gonna want to run some tests.”

“Which is permitted.” Tobias gave a nod to let him know we were done.

“Can we leave now?” I asked.

“Do you have any idea who you are dealing with?” Eli grimaced his annoyance. “My father can wipe you off the earth if you sneeze wrong.”

“If I get you in the room.” Tobias scratched his head as though mulling over his offer. “I’ll have one more condition.”

Eli narrowed his gaze. “What?”

“We both benefit from this.”

Eli didn’t look convinced. “Have you seen her?”

“Yes.” I gave an assured nod.