Chapter 367
Frank smiled but refused. “I’ll pass. I shouldn’t ask for help since it’s my gramps.”
Tidus was stunned. “Gramps? As in your grandfather?”
He never knew Frank had a grandfather!
“He’s my ex–wife’s grandfather,” Frank explained. “I owe him a lot, and I’ll be attending his birthday even though his granddaughter already divorced me.”
“I see…” Tidus nodded. “You’re certainly a grateful man, Mr. Lawrence! But to tell the truth, there really isn’t much to get here. However, there’s quite the collection in my family residence. My dad is passionate about antiques himself, so everything’s genuine–you can pick a couple as you like.”
Frank was actually surprised that Tidus was that generous, not to mention that it was more ideal to have solid recommendations than foraging around blindly.
“Well, thank you very much,” Frank said..
Tidus smiled. “Come on now, Mr. Lawrence–you saved my father’s life. A couple of antiques is nothing in comparison. We can head over together now if you like.”
And with that, Tidus led Frank to his car, and they drove to Gerald Simmons‘ official residence.
Gerald was on hand to receive him as soon as Frank arrived. “Welcome, Mr. Lawrence. It’s an honor.”
Frank nodded in turn. “You’re exaggerating, sir. I should be apologizing for imposing.”
“What are you saying?” Gerald laughed heartily. “I’d certainly like you to bother me more! So, I heard you’re looking for antiques as a birthday present? It is something worth celebrating- do choose whatever catches your fancy.”
They soon arrived at Gerald’s study, and Gerald introduced various collections he had to Frank. After some thought, Frank asked, “Would you have something like a painting?”
“A painting? Of course! What do you think about this one?” Gerald pointed at one hanging right behind his desk.
Frank glanced at it and was soon nodding in satisfaction. “Impressive piece. Could you tell me more about it?”
Gerald stroked his beard as he flashed a bragging smile. “It’s one of Alfie Bronx’s works late in his life, lost abroad for years. I spent a fortune to bring it back last year, and it’s now valued at over ten million. If Mr. Lane prefers paintings or manuscripts, this would be perfect as a gift.”
Frank was actually stunned as he stared at the framed painting.
Since he could see that Gerald really liked the painting, he said, “Actually, Mr. Simmons, this painting is too valuable, and I can see that you’d like to keep it. I can take something else instead.
“Nonsense,” Gerald said, waving him off. “I like paintings too, but art is supposed to be displayed for everyone’s admiration. What good is my keeping it than celebrating Mr. Lane’s
2/2
birthday?”
Turning toward Tidus, he said, “Go on, take it off the wall for Mr. Lawrence.”
“Okay,” Tidus said, then quickly took down the painting and carefully boxed it. “Oh…” Frank was still going to refuse, but Gerald was just too enthusiastic so he had no choice but to accept.
“By the
way, where will the banquet be held?” Gerald then asked in curiosity.
They must be close since Frank admired the man so much, and Gerald thought he could send someone to bring more gifts.
