"This is for you."
Mora Lee extended a small gift box across her desk, and the gallery's embossed logo gleamed in the light. Aria looked at the box with polite surprise, and she maintained her wealthy collector persona perfectly.
"That's very thoughtful," Aria said, "but you didn't need to get me anything."
"I insist," Mora Lee said, and her smile was warm but didn't quite reach her eyes. "You've been such a pleasure to work with, and I wanted to commemorate our successful collaboration on the Somov authentication. Please, open it."
Aria took the box and lifted the lid carefully, and inside was an elegant fountain pen with intricate detailing along the barrel. The craftsmanship was exceptional, and the weight felt substantial in her hand when she lifted it from its velvet cushion.
"It's beautiful," Aria said, and genuine appreciation colored her voice. "Thank you, Ms. Lee. This is far too generous."
