#Chapter 160: Covered in Blood

Iris My painting is ruined. All those hours of work, all the blood, sweat, and tears that I poured into that piece—gone. Destroyed in seconds by a bucket of pig’s blood. Without thinking, I stumble forward, reaching out. I have to fix this. Have to save my hard work, have to save this entire night— Before I can reach the painting, I feel strong arms around me. I look up to see Arthur standing beside me. His face is somehow even more thunderous than before, and he’s already pulling me away from the scene. “We need to go,” he growls. “Now.” I want to protest, but I know it won’t be any use; Arthur is already pulling me away while Emi flanks my other side, and Ezra is clearing a path through the stunned crowd. As we emerge from the building, all I can see are the flashing of cameras. All I can hear are the shouts of angry protesters and curious journalists. “Iris! What happened?” “Blood diamond wearer!” “Is it true?” “What will y