[Elena's POV]

"Didn't miss a thing," I said into the microphone. "You're right on time."

Noah settled back in his seat like he owned the chair. Someone two rows behind him whispered something. I didn't catch the words, but I caught the tone, impressed, slightly nervous. The usual Noah effect.

I looked back at the auditorium.

"And next, I want to talk about what a painting actually costs," I said. "Not the price tag. The other kind."

The room had gone quiet in a way it hadn't before he walked ...