Chapter 221

#221 “You’re Going to be the Death of Me One Day.”

Sophia listened intently to the attendant’s explanation, she couldn’t help but notice a peculiar detail a pair of scales placed in front of the painting, preventing her from getting too close. Intrigued, Sophia couldn’t help but wonder about the significance of the scales and their connection to the painting.

“Excuse me,” Sophia interrupted the attendant, gesturing towards the scales, “why are these scales placed here? Is there a specific reason?”

The attendant’s smile faltered slightly, her expression turning guarded. “Ah, those scales are just a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of the painting,” she explained vaguely, avoiding Sophia’s gaze.

“I see,” Sophia said. “Thank you for the information.”

As the attendant began to leave, Sophia couldn’t shake off the feeling of curiosity gnawing at her insides. She glanced once more at the painting of Apollo and Daphne, her mind racing with questions and possibilities.

With a determined expression, Sophia made a split-second decision. Ignoring the attendant’s retreating figure, she stepped over the barrier and approached the painting, her heart pounding with anticipation.

Carefully, she reached out and ran her fingers along the edges of the frame, searching for any hidden compartments or clues. But to her dismay, the painting felt solid and unyielding, revealing no secrets.

Frustration mounting, Sophia’s eyes darted around the room, searching for any sign of a hidden message. And then, just as she was about to give up hope, her gaze fell upon the scales placed in front of the painting.

With a quick glance around to make sure no one was watching, she made her decision. Ignoring the attendant’s warning glance, she reached out and began to feel along the edges of the painting, her fingers tracing every inch of the frame in search of a hidden compartment.

And then, just as she was about to give up hope, her fingers brushed against something smooth and solid. With a quick tug, she pulled out a small leather -bound diary, her heart leaping with excitement.

As Sophia’s fingers brushed against the leather-bound diary hidden within the frame of the painting, a surge of adrenaline coursed through her veins. With trembling hands, she pulled it out, her heart pounding in her chest as she realized the significance of her discovery.

But before she could even flip open the cover to see what secrets lay within, a loud voice shattered the tense silence of the gallery.

“Stop right there!”

Sophia’s heart leaped into her throat as she whirled around to see the gallery guards rushing towards her, their expressions stern and determined. Without a moment’s hesitation, she stuffed the diary into the pocket of her jacket and sprinted towards the nearest exit, her pulse racing with every step.

Behind her, she could hear the pounding of footsteps as the guards gave chase, their shouts echoing off the walls of the gallery. Sophia’s breath came in ragged gasps as she darted between sculptures and dodged around startled onlookers, her mind racing with fear and adrenaline.

She reached the exit just as the guards closed in, the heavy wooden doors swinging open to reveal the bustling streets of London beyond. With a surge of relief, Sophia burst out into the cool evening air, her heart still pounding in her chest.

But she knew she couldn’t stop now. With the guards hot on her heels, Sophia darted into the crowded streets, weaving through the throngs of people with practiced ease. She ducked down alleyways and side streets, her senses on high alert as she sought to evade capture.

Every passing moment felt like an eternity as Sophia raced through the labyrinthine streets of the city, her breath coming in short, ragged gasps. But she refused to give up, driven by the tantalizing promise of the secrets hidden within the diary clutched tightly in her hand.

Finally, after what felt like hours, Sophia found herself in a quiet corner of the city, the sounds of pursuit fading into the distance behind her. With a sigh of relief, she sank to her knees, her chest heaving as she struggled to catch her breath.

But even as she rested, Sophia knew that her journey was far from over. The diary burning a hole in her pocket was a tantalizing glimpse into a world of secrets and intrigue, and she was determined to uncover the truth, no matter the cost.

Sophia’s phone rang again, catching her off guard. Glancing at the screen, she saw Alexander’s name and quickly answered, her heart still racing from the chase.

“Hello?” she answered, her breath still slightly uneven from the adrenaline.

“Benjamin called me,” Alexander’s voice came through the phone, tinged with both concern and a stern note. ” Have something to say in your defense for telling me you wouldn’t get into trouble and still doing it?”

Sophia couldn’t help but let out a laugh, the tension from the moment easing slightly. “Well, I might have narrowly escaped trouble, but now I have a diary,” she replied, a mix of triumph and mischief in her voice.

This confession drew a laugh from Alexander as well, the sound of it calming Sophia even more. “Honestly, Sophia, you’re going to be the death of me one day.”

“We’re one step closer to the truth now, “Sophia said, her voice filled with excitement.

“Hearing that you managed to outrun security in heels is both terrifying and impressive. Good job, love,” Alexander complimented, his voice carrying admiration and disbelief.

“Thank you,” Sophia giggled, the thrill of the events still pulsing through her veins.

“But no more reckless stunts, promise me this time,” Alexander’s tone turned serious again.

“I promise. Now you should get some sleep; I know it’s late in America. I love you,” Sophia said, feeling a warm glow at the thought of Alexander worrying about her from across the ocean.

“Love you too, troublemaker,” Alexander replied, the warmth in his voice unmistakable. “Just… stay safe, okay? And call me after you’ve read what’s in that diary.”

Sophia could hear the genuine concern in Alexander’s voice, and it made her heart swell. “I will, I promise. And thanks, Alex. For believing in me.’

With a final chuckle, Alexander said, “I always do. Just remember, no more Indiana Jones stunts for a while. We’ve got enough adventure in our lives as it is.”

Sophia smiled, picturing Alexander’s concerned but amused expression. ” Deal. No more stunts… for now. Goodnight, Alex.”

“Goodnight, love.” And with that, the call ended.