Chapter 34 Envy and Temptation
As evening fell, the last trace of sunset disappeared from the horizon.
After the final visitor left, Stargaze Gallery closed for the day, and Rachel held a quick wrap-up meeting in the office area.
Even though the first day of the exhibit was over, they still had six more days ahead. They couldn't afford to slack off, and safety checks were mandatory every day, at least twice, no exceptions.
The meeting didn't last long, considering everyone would likely need to work late into the night. Rachel didn't want to take up too much of their time.
Just as she turned to enter her office, Steven arrived at Stargaze Gallery. Wayne, who was about to head to the exhibition area, saw him and greeted him casually.
"Hey, Mr. Martinez. You're here."
Steven nodded warmly. "Hey, where's Rachel?"
"She's upstairs in her office."
"How did the exhibit go today?"
Wayne paused, then nodded. "It went great. The online response has been fantastic too."
"That's good to hear. Rachel's been worried about this exhibit for a while. Now she can relax a bit. Today was a good start; things will only get better from here."
Wayne smiled. "Absolutely. Stargaze Gallery has a solid reputation. With Rachel leading, it'll definitely reach new heights."
Steven replied, "You've all worked hard today. I ordered some hot drinks to help you unwind. They'll be delivered soon, and I'd like you to handle it."
"You're too kind, Mr. Martinez."
"It's nothing. You all deserve it for supporting Rachel."
After their brief exchange, Steven headed upstairs with his coffee in hand.
As he stepped out of the elevator, he saw Nancy carrying a stack of documents, looking a bit distressed.
Their eyes met, and a glimmer of light appeared in Nancy's previously dull eyes.
She walked over excitedly, almost wanting to throw herself into his arms. "What brings you here? Did you come to see me?"
Before she could finish, Steven stepped aside to avoid her touch, frowning slightly. "There's surveillance here."
Nancy froze.
Seeing him, all the frustration and disregard she had felt from Rachel throughout the day seemed to find an outlet. She wanted his embrace and kisses.
For a moment, she forgot this was Stargaze Gallery, and the hallway had surveillance cameras.
She pouted, her innocent eyes tinged with a bit of discontent. "I thought you knew I'd been upset today and came to comfort me. Did you not even bring me coffee?"
Seeing Steven openly carrying a cup of coffee, she knew it was meant for Rachel.
Steven couldn't stand Nancy's look of disappointment. His frown softened, and his eyes showed a hint of gentle concern.
"I did. It'll be delivered soon. Yours is different from theirs; I made a note."
Nancy had vented to him about what happened at Stargaze Gallery this morning.
Her words were full of hurt and sadness.
Though Nancy felt a bit dissatisfied, she didn't dare make a scene now. She responded quietly, forcing back the tears welling up in her eyes.
"Go ahead and see her. She's in the office. I'll get back to work."
Steven felt a pang of sympathy but couldn't make any promises.
Nancy retreated, not looking at him as she stepped into the elevator.
Once the elevator doors closed, she took a deep breath, her sadness and frustration disappearing, replaced by a glint of malice as she clenched her fists.
Steven gathered his thoughts and knocked on Rachel's office door.
Rachel was sitting in her chair, looking at some documents on her computer. She casually said, "Come in."
The door opened, and Steven peeked in, his voice teasing and cheerful. "Rachel, when are you finishing up? I'm waiting at the door."
Rachel looked up, slightly surprised, then smiled warmly. "Why didn't you message me?"
"I thought you might be busy and not have time. So I just brought some drinks over." Steven walked in. "Was today exhausting?"
"Not too bad." Rachel glanced at the items in his hand. "What's this? Garden Path Café coffee? Did you go there just for me?"
"Yes. Haven't had it in a while, right?"
"Thank you, honey." Her eyes sparkled with joy as she took a sip. "You mentioned buying some hot drinks?"
"Yes, they should be here by now. I wanted to treat the staff at Stargaze Gallery for their hard work."
Rachel nodded. "They deserve it. You're always so thoughtful. Autumn suggested we take everyone out for dinner once the exhibit settles down."
"That sounds great. Where's Autumn? I haven't seen her."
"She left around four this afternoon. She was exhausted."
Steven nodded, a bit frustrated. "She's been back for days, and I wanted to take her out to eat, but haven't found the chance."
"No worries. Autumn won't be heading back abroad until after the New Year. We have plenty of time."
"True. No rush."
"If you're so eager to treat someone, how about treating me first?" Rachel raised her eyebrows playfully.
Steven chuckled. "It would be my honor to take such a beautiful lady out for dinner. What do you want to eat?"
Rachel thought for a moment. "I want steak and lobster."
Steven nodded cheerfully. "Alright, let's go to Golden Rose Fine Dining. You mentioned liking their steak, but we haven't been back since. How about tonight?"
"Sounds good."
"When can we leave?"
"I need to finish this up first. Maybe half an hour."
"No problem. I'll wait and make a reservation."
Forty minutes later, Rachel finally done with her work. Steven stood up, grabbing her coat and bag.
"Let's go."
Rachel paused, appreciating his attentiveness to her habits.
Walking out of the office hand in hand, their laughter and conversation painted a picture of deep affection.
To Nancy, watching them, it felt like they were surrounded by a bubble of sweetness.
Seeing their intertwined fingers, Nancy's eyes stung, and each breath seemed to hurt, deep in her chest.
The intense pain twisted her features slightly.
She envied Rachel's open affection with Steven, jealous that Rachel didn't have to sneak around to hold Steven's hand, and longed for the loving gaze Steven reserved for Rachel.
Especially contrasting with the earlier moment in the elevator when Steven avoided her, the difference was stark.
How could she not feel bitter and resentful?
Only when she thought about how she had manipulated Rachel and turned Steven into her lover did she feel somewhat relieved.
Rachel's current happiness meant nothing.
What would happen when her affair with Steven was exposed? How spectacular would Rachel's shock and pain be then?
She was looking forward to it.
As the malice faded from her eyes, she put on a mocking smile and walked over, reverting to her usual sweet and lively demeanor.
"Rachel, off work already? Where are you heading for your date?"
She affectionately took Rachel's arm, pretending she wasn't bothered by their earlier conflict.
Rachel frowned, her eyes showing little emotion, and withdrew her arm. "Dinner."
Nancy's heart skipped a beat, feeling nervous and uneasy about Rachel's attitude.
Did Rachel know she was behind the sabotage?
But if she knew, why hadn't she exposed her?
Nancy was unsure and tentatively asked, "Rachel, are you upset with me? Did I do something wrong? Aren't we best friends? Please tell me so we can work it out."
Her anxious, innocent look was very convincing, even adding a touch of tearful emotion.
Anyone would think she had suffered a great injustice.
Rachel's expression remained cold, but her tone was calm. "No, you're overthinking."
She then took Steven's arm, speaking softly, "Honey, I'm hungry. Let's go eat."
"Sure."
Steven gently squeezed her hand, and as they left, he glanced at the teary-eyed Nancy, feeling a pang of sorrow.
In the underground parking lot, he opened the car door for Rachel and thoughtfully buckled her seatbelt.
Once the car started, he asked, "Honey, did you and Nancy have a fight?"
"Sort of." Rachel casually made up an excuse. "I feel like she's lying to me. She doesn't really consider me a friend, and it bothers me."
Steven was taken aback. "Lying? About what?"
"She said she has a boyfriend, but I suspect she's someone's mistress. And I think I might know the guy, someone close to me. But the problem is, I don't have many close male friends."
Steven's heart sank, showing a surprised expression. "Why would you think that? Did you see something?"
"No, just a strong feeling. My intuition is usually spot on."
"Without evidence, it's not good to make such accusations."
"I know, which is why I haven't said anything."
Steven pursed his lips. "You've known her for years and know her character. She wouldn't do something like that. You shouldn't jump to conclusions."
Rachel paused, then smiled. "Nancy's looks and personality are attractive to most men, right?"
"What? I don't know. I only have eyes for you." Steven said.
"I'm serious." Rachel gave him a playful glare. "As her friend, I don't want her to go astray. But you don't need to worry about it."
"Okay. I won't get involved. Just don't stress yourself out."
Steven smiled, his eyes behind the glasses flashing with a hint of sharpness.