Aiden Knight's POV
The silence in Virtuous Benevolence Hall becomes suffocating. Every eye remains fixed on me as I consider Jasper's request. His weathered face shows a mixture of desperation and genuine curiosity.
"You want the whole truth about this painting?" I ask again.
"Yes, Master. Please."
I walk back toward the ornate display. My footsteps echo against the marble like gunshots. The crowd instinctively parts, creating a wide circle around me and the controversial artwork.
"Then let me show you something interesting."
Without warning, I reach up and grasp the painting's gilded frame. Gasps ripple through the assembled patrons. Scarlett's face goes white as fresh snow.
"Master, what are you—" Jasper begins.
I tear the painting cleanly in half.
The sound of ripping canvas fills the hall like thunder. Shreds of paint flutter to the floor like confetti. Several women scream. One elderly man clutches his chest and staggers backward.
