"Thank you for the gift, Richard. But it's far too valuable, and besides, the relationship between us is merely that of ordinary business partners-we're not close enough for me to accept something like this."

Sigourney declined with graceful tact, yet her tone carried unmistakable firmness. The faint smile at the corner of Richard's lips gradually faded.

"But... didn't you like it very much, Sigourney?"

Richard turned his gaze toward Theodore.

"Or is it because of him that you're refusing? ...