Chapter 394

Chapter 394

Looking back, Maja still found it amusing that the guy never bothered to ask her real name and she had

no idea she had become Herbert’s apprentice. Herbert’s work was top–notch, but he was a social

recluse and hated having his photo taken, so his face was unknown to most

It was only by chance that Maja found his style strikingly similar to a painter she adored. When she

enquired, she was stunned to find that it was the same person.

And she had become Herbert’s last apprentice without even realizing it.

Herbert never participated in any social events, always ranting about how fake people were.

“Penny, I’m giving you this painting. See if you like it. Don’t stand on ceremony with me. The auction

house has been nagging me for it. I gave them a non–committal answer. If you want it, it’s yours.”

His affection for her was plain as day.

In the initial years, Herbert taught Maja a thing or two. Especially when they were in Crystalbrook

Valley; he taught her everything he knew.

That year, Maja improved by leaps and bounds.

Eventually, Herbert felt there was nothing more he could teach her, so he left to seek inspiration around

the world.

Maja looked at that painting.

Herbert’s style was unique; his landscapes seemed to leap off the canvas.

“Got a new inspiration? Your style is more mature like you’ve reached a new level.”

Herbert was fond of his apprentice. Hearing her praise, he was delighted.

*1 declined the auction. I had the painting sent to you. Ian’s Grandma is having a birthday, right? Give

her the painting. She’ll love it.”

Ian’s Grandma didn’t live in Greenfield. After something happened to lan’s brother, she left that place.

Maja never met lan’s brother; she didn’t even know what he looked like. Only after Connie Raymond

mentioned him, she learned about him and got more information.

But now lan’s brother seemed to hold a high position in the Raymond family.

Before Maja could reply, Herbert chuckled.

“I think I’ve got a new inspiration, Penny. I had the painting sent to you. I’m off to create something new.

If you’re wronged in Greenfield, don’t bottle it up even if you’re not much of a talker.”

“Don’t worry, I’m not wronged.”

Herbert sighed.

“You’re actually more suited for lan’s elder brother. He’s gentle and refined. Ian is wild and antisocial. I

quite like him, though. He’s from a rich family, knows hardship, and even served in the military. But I

don’t think your personality matches his.”

To put him at ease, Maja said, “He’s actually quite a nice guy.”

“Okay, as long as you’re happy. Gotta go, Penny.”

Maja found it funny and continued looking at the picture he sent

lan’s Grandmother, if Maja remembered correctly, didn’t like her when they were about to get married. It

was only Holden who insisted.

Maja rubbed her temples, foreseeing trouble if she was coming back.

lan looked at the document in front of him and pushed it forward after dealing with it.

Jeff took the document and ran into Carlene who was coming in.

Carlene thought Ian wouldn’t come to the office today as he was still at the hotel at noon.

And it was Saturday.

“lan, we got news from North America, Herbert’s painting is indeed going to the auction. Lots of people

will want to be there, even Fitch Haskins. When are you leaving?”

lan admired Herbert’s work the most.

Carlene had prepared a lot of money, determined to win the painting.

Edith was returning to Greenfield. She liked Carlene the most and strongly supported lan dating

Carlene back then.

It wasn’t about anything else. Carlene had once met Edith by chance and made her very happy.

Carlene’s lips curved into a smile, planning to gift Herbert’s painting to Edith. Considering Edith didn’t

like lan’s wife, they’d probably have to divorce once she returned.

Edith used to live far away and didn’t want to interfere.

lan took a sip of his coffee

Tomorrow morning.”

Carlene’s eyes sparkled. She waited a long time in the hotel lobby today but only saw lan come out

She started doubting herself again. The hair of the woman on his bed might have been left by the

cleaner and the two pillows might be lan’s habit.

After all, if anyone said that lan was having an affair, probably no one would believe it.