The private dining room was bathed in soft golden light, casting long shadows across the polished mahogany table. Arthur Pendleton, the legendary violinist, studied the young couple before him with piercing scrutiny. His silver hair gleamed under the chandelier, and his ice-blue eyes held an unreadable sharpness.

"This isn't the young woman I was hoping to meet," he remarked, his voice smooth but edged with authority.

Alexander Blackwood sat composed beside Victoria Langley, his expression unreadable. Victoria, however, could barely contain her excitement. If Caroline Delacroix was the musician she idolized, then Arthur Pendleton was the living myth she had only ever dreamed of encountering. Her fingers trembled slightly against the tablecloth.

"Mr. Pendleton," Alexander said calmly, "the woman beside me is no less extraordinary than the one you seek."

Arthur's gaze sharpened, cutting through the air like a blade. "And what, may I ask, is your relationship to the woman I'm looking for?"

Alexander didn't hesitate. "She is my wife."

Arthur shifted his attention to Victoria. "And who is this young lady to you?"

"A friend," Alexander replied smoothly. "She graduated from the Solmaris Conservatory, School of Musical Arts."

A dry chuckle escaped Arthur's lips, as if he'd heard something amusing. "Do you truly believe a degree from Solmaris is impressive enough to warrant my attention?"

English flowed effortlessly from him, the universal language of their world. Alexander arched a brow. "Isn't it?"

Arthur leaned back slightly, his cane resting against the table. "Solmaris is indeed among the top five music schools globally. But you seem to forget, Mr. Blackwood, that in your own country of Newhaven, there exists the Royal Solmaris Conservatory—ranked second in the world."

"However," he continued, "Royal Solmaris specializes in traditional Newhaven instruments, while Solmaris Conservatory excels in others."

Arthur's fingers tapped lightly against his cane. "I've studied your traditional instruments. They are exquisite, but undeniably complex..."

His gaze returned to Victoria, dismissive. "I don't deny Solmaris has produced geniuses. But to me, its students wouldn't even qualify to knock on my door."

His interest clearly lay elsewhere. "Mr. Blackwood, the woman I seek is your wife. Where is she?"

Alexander's jaw tightened imperceptibly, but his voice remained steady. "Mr. Pendleton, the violin is merely a pastime for her. She has no intention of pursuing it professionally."

"Her priorities lie with her family."

Arthur, known for his reverence of talent, scoffed lightly. "Family and music need not be mutually exclusive," he countered, his gaze locking onto Alexander's. "And with the Blackwood family's resources, she wouldn't need to sacrifice one for the other."

As a titan in the music world, Arthur moved in elite circles. Newhaven, being a global powerhouse, meant he was well-acquainted with its influential figures—including Alexander.

Alexander's lips curved slightly. "Earlier, you implied a Solmaris graduate wasn't worthy of your attention. My wife never attended university. By your standards, she wouldn't even be allowed near your door."