The Understated Dragon Lord novel Chapter 445

"Go on then, hit me! If you do, I won't let you see the true nature of this painting," Daniel taunted Madison, clearly holding some leverage.

"Smack!"

How could Madison tolerate such a threat? She slapped Daniel across the face right away. But she held back, making it a light tap rather than a full-force blow.

Daniel looked at her in shock, "Did you really just hit me?"

"So what if I did? When I hit you, it's because I care!"

Madison leaned close to Daniel's ear and added in a whisper, "Behave, or you'll get more than a slap!"

That left Daniel puzzled, "More than a slap? Where?"

"I'll flick that certain place," Madison replied with a sly grin. As she spoke, her eyes darted downwards involuntarily, and her mind conjured up some imagery. She wondered what that private area of his might look like and what his reaction would be if she flicked it. Could it be delightful to see how a little flick makes this country boy howl?

"Pervert!" Daniel returned Madison's jest.

Their whispered exchange, although inaudible to Smart, was enough for him to sense the flirtation based on their expressive interaction, which sparked an instant surge of jealousy.

"Country boy, stop trying to distract us with your antics. You've got the vodka and the lighter now, so get on with your proof. Prove that this worthless print is a ten-billion-dollar original by Piet Mondrian," Smart demanded.

"Didn’t expect to see you in such a hurry, Smart. Are you so eager to kneel and call me grandpa? Since you're so impatient, I'll start my demonstration."

"What did you say? Set it on fire? Are you trying to burn me alive, country boy?"

"Oh! Madison, you won’t get hurt."

"You... I ought to kick you to death!"

In her irritation, Madison gave Daniel a light kick with her high heel. Still, 'The Red Cloud' remained in her hands; she didn't throw it away.

"Madison, you need to trust me. If I asked you to hold onto it, then I can guarantee one hundred percent that after it’s lit, the fire won't touch you."