The Exhibition (An Executive Decision Trilogy)

Read Online The Exhibition (An Executive Decision Trilogy) by Grace Marshall - Free Book Online Page A

Book: The Exhibition (An Executive Decision Trilogy) by Grace Marshall Read Free Book Online
Authors: Grace Marshall
Ads: Link
us that and so much more.
    ‘Having said all that, having been surrounded with so much manifest creativity, it’s my great pleasure to announce that tonight’s award for Outstanding New Artist goes to Ingrid Watson for her work, Inspiration in Stone , purchased by Terrance Jamison for a cool million.’
    The room erupted in applause as the young artist came to the podium to take the plaque that Stacie offered. The two women shook hands. Ingrid offered a few nervous words of thanks, her eyes continually returning to Terrance Jamison, who smiled up at her indulgently. Stacie fought back a wave of vertigo, remembering the first time she’d seen that look on his face. She grabbed onto the podium with both hands and forced the thought out of her mind. Then she shook Ingrid’s hand once more and watched her return to the audience, this time to sit next to Jamison.
    As the auction ended and while the champagne and canapés made another round, Stacie did her best to mingle and smile. It was what she was good at, especially for a worthy cause. And she was certain that no one had any idea of what a rough evening this had been for her. The crowd thinned and Maggie flitted about making sure final details were taken care of. Stacie had just finished talking with Lynn when she turned to find herself face to face with Jamison. Ingrid Watson’s arm was folded over his and the young woman looked totally delighted.
    Jamison leaned in and kissed Stacie on each cheek, taking his time to let a free hand slide onto the bare skin of her shoulder. ‘A lovely evening, Stacie.’ He brushed a loose strand of hair back behind her ear in a way that made her shiver, but she held herself, she held herself as though she was encased in glass and his touch meant nothing. ‘You always did know how to make the money,’ he whispered against her ear. Then he pulled back and straightened, patting Ingrid’s hand. ‘Ms. Watson and I are having a late dinner, and she’s going to tell me all about her work, aren’t you, my darling?’
    Ingrid offered an adoring nod.
    ‘We’d both love it if you’d join us.’ The surprised look on Ingrid’s face told Stacie that clearly wasn’t the case.
    ‘Thank you, Terrance –’ Stacie was amazed she could speak to him without her voice trembling ‘– but it’s traditional for the winner of the Outstanding New Artist award to join the VIP list for dinner.’ He knew this, and Stacie knew that their conversation was making Ingrid Watson uncomfortable. Clearly she’d rather be with Jamison. But then she had no idea how dangerous being with Jamison could be. Stacie added, ‘There are always reporters and gallery owners hoping for exhibitions with the artists.’ She could see the dilemma in the woman’s eyes. ‘It’s your chance to shine, Ingrid.’
    ‘Come now, Stacie, don’t be so stingy.’ Jamison drew the woman possessively closer to him. ‘I’ve just paid a million dollars to share this lovely woman’s company, and you and I both know I have plenty of connections to make sure her work gets the attention it deserves.’
    If Ingrid noticed Jamison’s derogatory play on words, she didn’t show it, and in all honesty, it was meant for Stacie, but Stacie could take care of herself. It was Ingrid she worried about.
    Just then Al Marston lumbered over to her side. ‘You ready to go, Stacie? The limos have arrived for the artists.’
    Ingrid looked desperately from Jamison back to Stacie and Al. Jamison forced the issue. ‘Come now, my darling. I’m sure Ms. Emerson knows better than most I’m the best thing that could possibly happen to your career.’ He nodded to Stacie, his eyes never leaving hers while he completely ignored Al. Then he turned on his heels, still holding Ingrid Watson’s arm in a possessive grip.
    But before he could get completely away, Stacie grabbed Ingrid’s other hand in a hard handshake. ‘I just want to congratulate you again, Ms. Watson. Thank you for your

Similar Books

Revenge

Taslima Nasrin

King John & Henry VIII

William Shakespeare

Evolution

L.L. Bartlett

When the Heart Lies

Christina North

Unlucky Charms

Linda O. Johnston

I Call Him Brady

K. S. Thomas