The intricacies of the artwork captivated him, but it was a specific detail that caused him to pause – a stone book, identical to the one he had encountered at Dracula's house.
Mike, observant as ever, noted Nexus's reaction. "Something catch your eye?"
Nexus, momentarily caught off guard, tried to conceal his mind. "Oh, it's just the painting. It's quite remarkable," he responded, attempting to redirect the conversation.
But Mike, ever perceptive, leaned into the curiosity. "Ah, that painting has an interesting history. Care to hear about it?" he offered, a glint of mystery in his eyes.
Nexus, torn between departing and indulging in the intrigue, couldn't resist. "Sure, tell me about it," he said, his curiosity piqued.
As Mike began to unravel the story behind the painting, Nexus's mind raced with possibilities.
