Summary

Danielle reflects on her relationship with her ex-husband Sam. Danielle blamed him for many things and he claimed she would “never become a great artist” because she had “a happy childhood” (30). It had been “liberating” for Danielle to find a “real job … rather than constantly striving to become” something (30). However, Danielle's creative side makes her question her choices. Danielle prepares for a meeting with her boss’ boss Anatoly Armstrong, as permission is required to investigate Alizée as potential artist of the paintings found behind the canvases. Her superiors at Christie’s auction house, including her boss George Bush, would rather Danielle “butt out” of the process (30).

Danielle’s Grand-pére had been the only person who knew Alizée, and he told Danielle that she takes after her great-aunt. From old and grainy photographs, the women resemble each other with their “blonde...