Blossom in Winter (Blossom in Winter #1)(22)

“Oh, I never thought about it that way.” His lips twitch into a smile. “Maybe that’s why he wants me to have a degree in economics.”

“Your father loves you a lot. He might be cold and rigid sometimes, but he cares a lot about you.” I don’t reply. He looks down absently, thinking something through. “Why don’t we do the following—you’re going to be an intern with the investment team, right?”

“Right.”

“We should open a small fund for you. Nothing big— just, like, two hundred and fifty thousand dollars so you can invest in your favorite emerging artists. What do you think?”

My jaw drops. “Two hundred and fifty thousand dollars? Oh my! This is… I… I can’t believe it.”

“Consider it your graduation gift.”

And to my surprise, I hug him. “Oh, Alex, thank you so much.”

He gasps, feeling my arms wrapped around his neck. “Alright,” he breathes. I release him from my overly tight hug. He straightens his shoulders, his face unsmiling. “But… I have some conditions. I want you to pitch me what you have in mind before spending a dime. Are we clear?” I nod. “You need to diversify your portfolio with at least ten different artists and get the best deals out of each acquisition.” I feel him studying me. “As a matter of fact, when you pitch someone, think numbers and data. They’re the most convincing. To get a strong pitch, you’ll need to research similar artists and the value their artwork reached and why. It’ll be very time-consuming,” he warns seriously. “You’ll have to be able to justify every investment and the potential returns.”

I ponder for a moment. “I’m sure I can get this done. I read a lot about emerging artists and art trends. And since Dad is out nearly every night, my best friends became my books and laptop,” I add.

“Great. Oh, by the way, there is a small luncheon at my estate after your graduation rehearsal. And no, you cannot skip it, since it’s in your honor.”

“Why on earth would you organize that for me? It’s totally unnecessary.”

“Hey, it’s not every day my only goddaughter graduates from high school.”

“Oh, dear Lord. Alright, but please, from now on just call me ‘Petra.’ ‘Goddaughter’ sounds way too dated to my ears.”

“As you wish, Petra.”





Chapter 6





Bedford Hills, May 28, 2019

Petra Van Gatt





Following the graduation rehearsal at Loyola and the usual family picture with my graduation cap, gown, and degree certificate in hand, Dad and I are on our way to Bedford Hills for the celebratory luncheon. Unlike the rest of my female classmates, I’m not wearing a dress or skirt. Instead, I’ve opted for skinny jeans, a striped white-and-navy-blue top, and a matching jacket. I’ve decided against wearing heels too, just beige flats, and I have only the tiniest amount of makeup on.

The drive to upstate New York feels like an eternity. In the back seat, Dad is entertained reading while I keep constantly staring outside. “How many people will be there?”

“Less than a hundred,” replies Dad, eyes glued on his iPad.

I let out a sigh. “Why such a big gathering?”

The car stops as we wait for the black metal gates to open.

“It’s just friends and acquaintances, don’t worry. You should get to know those people, Petra. They run New York.” Oh God, why me? I’m not impressed, it just feels like a tedious obligation. “Don’t forget to be polite and to thank your godfather for the gathering,” he adds.

The car starts moving and drives onto the estate. I look again out my window. I didn’t remember how vast the estate is, with large green fields, acres of trees, and perfectly manicured lawns. Sometimes I feel jealous that I can’t live like Alex or Emma on a property in the middle of nature—far from urban and noisy Manhattan.

We finally arrive at the main entrance of the manor. I see that Alex is already there, chatting with friends, drinking champagne, and probably waiting for Dad. He’s resplendent as always, sporting a fit beige spring blazer with a silk pocket handkerchief, a white shirt open at the collar, and navy-blue pants—quite elegant but not formal.

Dad promptly walks toward him and gives him a friendly hug with a clap on the back. “Many thanks for organizing this, Alex.”

“My dear friend, it’s the least I could do.”

As I predicted, I feel totally left out, standing timidly by the car, while Dad has already gone inside, along my godfather and his friends. I look around, taking in my surroundings. I can’t miss the rows of expensive cars littered about the courtyard. Cars have never appealed to me—I’m glad I don’t own any of them.

“Congrats on your graduation, Ms. Van Gatt.”

Having left his friends behind, Alex has come back and walks toward me, causing my lips to spread in a smile.

“Thanks. Small gathering, huh?”

“Well… it’s all relative.” He winks at me. “Come inside, I will get you a drink.” And he takes me by the hand.

“Am I allowed to drink alcohol today?” I ask, surprised.

“I don’t think so. However, I’m sure the bartender will prepare something nice for you.”