Chapter 368 The Impolite Ones Arrive

"If you don't know, look it up yourself. Don’t you study art? Why don't you know anything?" The designer lost his patience and scolded him under his breath. Then, he walked over to Darwin's family of three with a smile.

"Mr. Solomon, I had no idea your daughter was the prodigious artist known as You. I admire her work greatly. She held a charity auction back home, and I was especially keen on acquiring the painting that was titled 'God'. Unfortunately, I was out of the country, so I sent a friend on my behalf. It went for several million in the end. The competition was fierce, and my budget just didn't cut it," the designer rambled on, then crouched down to meet Chicago's gaze. "Hey You, would it be possible for me to commission a painting for a substantial sum? My wife and mother-in-law adore your work. They even traveled all the way to your European exhibition but weren't able to secure a piece."

Chicago blinked her lovely eyes.

"I'm sorry," said Darwin politely. "Chicago's still very young. She doesn't have many paintings."

The designer was nearly brought to his knees by her cuteness.

At that moment, Allen had found the articles about the prodigious artist known as You, including the painting titled 'God.' He had seen it at an exhibition before and was utterly astounded then. Did a kid make that?

When he looked up, he met the child's cool and mocking gaze. Allen had always been praised, and he couldn’t believe a child would dare look at him that way. His face turned scarlet with embarrassment.

Just then, two groups of customers came in wanting to try the DIY design system. As they entered, they saw Chicago's designs for two children's rooms displayed on the large screen.

"You’re here, Miss Jane?" Allen recognized one of the visitors instantly. She was a majestic middle-aged woman.

She was his mother's bridge partner and had watched him grow up. They had come to renovate their villa through his mother’s referral, which was why he was interning here.

"Allen, what have you been up to? Did your company create this design? It's so intriguing and stylish. I've never seen such a fun room. It's for children, right?" Miss Jane couldn't take her eyes off the screen. She was thoroughly enchanted by the design.

Allen's face turned green with envy.

"Those are just some kid's scribbles, Miss Jane. You're a master. I'm sure you can do much better than this!" Allen emphasized the word 'master' with intention.

Who cared about prodigious young artists? Compared to a master of traditional painting, they were nothing.

"Did one of the kids do this?" Miss Jane looked around. She smiled affectionately at the only two children in the room. "Excuse me, may I ask which young artist created this?"

Allen's face turned an even deeper shade of green.

Chicago took a step forward and responded with grace and politeness, despite being upset by Allen's rudeness. "It was me, ma’am."

"My, you're incredibly talented! Have you taken art classes?" Miss Jane took a few steps closer, her fondness for Chicago showing in her eyes.

"I think you know her name, Miss Jane. She’s the child prodigy who’s been making waves these past couple of years with her divine paintings..."

"You mean her?" Miss Jane asked in astonishment.

"That's her!" The designer beamed with pride as if Chicago was his own.

"Where are her parents?" Miss Jane was excited and immediately looked for them, soon spotting Darwin, "Mr. Darwin?"

"She's Mr. Darwin's daughter," the designer chimed in quickly.

Miss Jane didn’t care that Darwin had just gotten married and could hardly have a daughter that age. She had other things on her mind.

"Mr. Darwin, your daughter has an extraordinary talent for painting. I've heard she doesn't have an official mentor. Do you think I could be of service?" Miss Jane cut to the chase. "I've been waiting for the right protégé. Rest assured, if you entrust her to me, I will devote my utmost effort to nurture her potential and help her become a great artist!"

"Miss Jane!"

Allen was stunned.

His mother and Miss Jane were close.

But she hadn’t wanted to take him in when he was a child looking to learn.

And now she was ready to take a stranger under her wing as her closest student just minutes after meeting her?

Why?

"Allen!" The designer couldn’t stand it any longer. "Go make some tea. Your presence is no longer needed here."

Furious, Allen gritted his teeth.

But he wasn't foolish enough to cause a scene in front of such illustrious figures.

Clamping down on his anger, Allen stormed off.

"Mr. Darwin, would you consider it?" Miss Jane's earnest plea was evident.

"My wife has the final say in our household. I can't make any decisions about this alone," Darwin replied.

Undeterred, Miss Jane offered Darwin her business card. "No problem, please discuss it with your wife. I'll await your response."

Darwin took the card. "Chicago, say goodbye to Miss Jane."

"Goodbye, ma’am," Chicago waved politely.

As the family made their exit, the designer reassured Mr. Solomon. "About that new assistant, I assure you, I had no idea he'd act so recklessly and was willing to hurt a child. Don't worry, I’ll deal with him today."

"The kids' room should look just like the one in Chicago’s drawing." Darwin didn't respond immediately. "I want an exact replica. Money is no object."

"Cost isn't an issue, but the painting..." The designer looked a little embarrassed.

"That's up to my daughter." Darwin placed his hand on Chicago's head, finally showing a hint of a smile.

Chicago looked up at Darwin, then turned to the designer. "Did you design his room, mister?"

"Yes!" The designer nodded.

Chicago thought for a moment. "What would you like me to paint? ‘God’ is too vast. Something that big is out of the question."

Chicago gestured with her hands for scale. "About this size would be okay."

"Could you perhaps paint my wife?" the designer quickly asked.

Chicago shook her head, "Besides deities, I only paint family members."

The designer felt a twinge of disappointment.

"No worries, mister. Just take your time. When you've decided, just let me know," Chicago spoke softly.

The designer was charmed once again.

"I’m jealous, Mr. Darwin," he said, looking at Darwin. "You have a perfect life, and such an adorable son and daughter!"

Darwin lapped up the praise.

After confirming the design plans, Darwin wanted to personally check the materials being used. He was unwilling to cut corners.

But the storage area for the materials had the distinct scent of lumber, which Darwin preferred not to expose Charles and Chicago to.

Fortunately, the office had a special play area for children.

Darwin escorted them there, instructing Xavier and a few others in discreet protection to stay in the play area with the children.

"Are you tired, Charles?" Chicago tilted her head and asked earnestly after Darwin left.

"I’m not tired," Charles shook his head. "Ignore that man from earlier. Don't let him upset you."

Chicago remained silent, her gaze drifting past Charles to someone behind him.

The rude man had arrived.
The Substitute's Revenge: From Secretary to Queen
Detail
Share
Font Size
40
Bgcolor