Chapter 145

Alexander POV

I spotted James approaching through the crowd, his usual confident smirk firmly in place. No doubt coming to gloat about winning the Basquiat sketch.

“Alexander,” he greeted with practiced ease, champagne glass in hand. “Quite the evening. Though I must say, it’s rare to see you lose a bidding war.”

I extended my hand, forcing a pleasant smile. “James. Congratulations on the sketch. You certainly wanted it badly.”

“Not as badly as you did, apparently.” His eyes gleamed with satisfaction. “Seven hundred thousand seemed to be your breaking point.”

“The difference between us, James, is that I know when something isn’t worth the cost.” I kept my tone light, as if we were discussing the weather rather than his attempt to publicly one-up me.

“Always the businessman. Though I wonder if your grandfather would agree with your assessment of worth.”

“My grandfather understands value better than most.” I placed my hand on Olivia’s b