Chapter 654
Aiken had seen Skylar's photograph an hour earlier. He'd seen pictures of her from every angle—profile, full face, and everything in between. Skylar nodded to Aiken before returning to the antique paintings. Only a few remained to be examined.
Simona approached Aiken. "Aiken, why are you back so early? I was just about to introduce you to my friend. She works on Mr. Gardner Senior's team and is incredibly talented. I invited her to help determine the authenticity and value of our family antiques." Her confident tone implied that securing Skylar's assistance was a significant achievement.
Aiken lowered his voice, ensuring only Simona could hear. His expression grew serious. "When did you meet her?"
Simona raised an eyebrow at the sternness in Aiken's voice, then giggled. "Isn't Skylar stunning? Did you fall for her at first sight? Compared to those women around you, she's in a completely different league. Aiken, if you really care about me, win her over and make her my sister-in-law. If she becomes my sister-in-law, I promise to always listen to you."
A beauty like Skylar could indeed leave a lasting impression. Even a photograph had mesmerized him. Those who brought him the photo had also named a high price.
Aiken glanced at Skylar again. She appeared focused, undisturbed, possessing a unique presence. Despite her youth, she demonstrated a deep understanding of the intricate objects. No one on Alexander's team relied on luck or seniority.
Noticing Aiken's gaze, Simona felt a surge of hope. This could work. Skylar as her sister-in-law would be fantastic.
"Aiken, say something! Don't tell me you're struck dumb. Don't act up in front of Skylar, and don't scare her off. Though, she isn't easily frightened," Simona reminded him.
Aiken snapped back to reality. He frowned slightly. "Do you know her well?"
"It doesn't matter. What matters is that Skylar is a good person, someone who wouldn't take advantage of us. Moreover, Mr. Gardner Senior chose her for his team. Do you think he'd pick someone with questionable character? I trust my instincts. Skylar is the sister I've always wanted. And let me tell you a secret: Caleb likes Skylar, but she sees him as a brother. I think you're more her type," Simona said, suddenly recalling bossy CEO novels she'd recently read. While those novels were often exaggerated, Skylar truly possessed the charisma to captivate anyone, and those captivated would willingly give up everything for her.
Aiken remained silent, deep in thought.
Skylar approached and sent Simona several photos. "Simona, the items in these photos are all fakes. The rest are genuine, but their true value is far from priceless. The most expensive paintings are worth at most ten million dollars."
Simona's eyes widened. "Are these all fakes? I remember this vase was said to be a thousand-year-old antique worth at least fifty million dollars, and it's fake? Aiken, someone's definitely trying to con us!" She turned to Aiken.
Aiken's expression darkened.
"Maybe it's not intentional deception. These fakes are very convincing," Skylar suggested.
Although upset, Simona wasn't overly concerned about the tens of millions. Something else was more important now. "Skylar, this is my brother, Aiken Parkinson."
"Hello," Skylar greeted Aiken.
Aiken and Simona shared similar eyes, but different personalities. Simona was straightforward and candid, living life with a carefree attitude. Aiken, in contrast, was enigmatic, possessing a daunting presence that made people hesitant to meet his gaze.