Mikhail
I look over at Maria, and she wanders off into the gallery as soon as Nina leaves us. Her gaze moves from one piece to another, but she stops in front of the Kuzma Fedorov again, her eyes narrowing as she studies it intently.
I approach her and stand by the painting. Like it or not, she has to start speaking to me again.
She stares at me, maybe surprised I'm still silent, but then a tiny smile tugs at her lush lips. Like she knows a secret that I don't.
"Did you know," she starts, tilting her head, "that this painting is upside down?"
"Is it now?" I scoff, impressed with her bold claim. Standing beside her, I look at the painting with her. "Why do you say that?"
I expect a scowl, but Maria smiles beautifully, lighting her face up with joy. Her voice assumes a confident tone i
