Chapter 765

At home, the antique painting looked even better than at the auction. Its traditional charm was irresistible. The artwork depicted portraits and scenes of daily life, creating the illusion of stepping into another world. Vera was enchanted, while Denton gazed at it silently for a long time. Finally, he slapped his thigh, exclaiming, “Excellent! This is marvelous! It surpasses any I’ve collected before!”

“I’m glad you like it, Grandpa.”

“This is the best birthday gift I’ve received this year.”

Denton’s enthusiasm was rare; Vera had never seen him so animated. His reaction confirmed his appreciation, and she felt relieved about winning the painting. She hadn't anticipated Alexander's pettiness after losing the bid—he'd complained to her grandfather, even claiming her purchases were cursed. To Vera, they were simply fine pieces; she saw no potential trouble.

Jenny found a private moment with Joe in the underground parking lot. Seeing him brought back recent turmoil, and her eyes filled with tears. “Joe…”

Before college, they’d met frequently, even after she moved to Korel City. Though his visits were limited to her hospitalizations, they still showed he cared; his current neglect felt particularly hurtful.

Paul noticed Jenny’s reddened eyes and quickly checked their surroundings. Thankfully, they were alone.

“Is something wrong?” Joe asked.

A tear rolled down Jenny’s cheek, quickly wiped away. “I’m just… I’ve been dealing with a lot at work lately and am starting to doubt myself. Since you taught me so much when I was younger, I wanted to see you first.” Her eyes were earnest, revealing no hidden motives.

Paul was perplexed by Jenny’s transformation since returning to Jipsburg. He wondered if she truly believed her excuse, and if Joe, with his keen intuition, would see through it.

“There’s no need to doubt yourself. Just focus on doing your job well,” Joe said, averting his gaze and maintaining his usual demeanor. He questioned whether crying over work was helpful; had he ever taught her that?

Jenny was stunned. “Joe, can we have dinner together?”

“Concentrate on gaining experience and honing your skills. There’s no need for dinner,” Joe said before turning away.

Paul didn’t follow. Noting Jenny’s dissatisfaction, he gently advised, “Ms. Scott, staying with the Martin Group might not be the best use of your time. Mr. and Mrs. Martin have a strong relationship. It might be better to focus your efforts elsewhere.”

Jenny bit her lip, her expression hardening. Tears welled in her eyes as she looked at Paul. “I’m not sure I understand what you meant.”