Page 102 of Viktor

“What is this?” Her voice hushed to a whisper, her pulse racing. “This can’t be.” Frozen, she looked to the artwork and back to Viktor. “May I?”

“Of course.” He gestured to the wall.

Waverly’s heart sped in excitement as she approached the paintings. A singular spotlight shone on each individual piece. She studied the familiar artwork and placed her hand over her mouth in astonishment.

“What? How did you get this? It can’t be. This piece was destroyed in a fire.” Confusion threaded through her as she inspected the painting. “Ghirlandaio. Virgin and Child in Glory with Saints John the Evangelist, Francis, Jerome, and John the Baptist.”

“The one and only. I knew you’d like it,” he told her.

“But it was reported as destroyed in the Flakturm Friedrichshain fire,” Waverly replied. “I can’t believe this.”

“One of the greatest losses of art,” he agreed. “Good thing it’s still here.”

“But how?” She studied the piece, her mind racing. The realization hit her, and she turned to Viktor. “You were there.”

“I don’t know who started the fire but yes. I was in the vicinity when I saw the fire. As you can imagine, vampires, like humans, don’t do well with fire so I’m afraid I could only pop in and out. The fire was so intense that I literally was only there for a few seconds. I reached out and touched a painting and this is what I brought home with me.”

“Why doesn’t anyone know about this?” she asked him, wearing an expression of awe.

“The world has many secrets, pet. Whether it be a painting collecting dust in someone’s attic, or a piece that’s been stolen. Or even ones that are reportedly destroyed…there are great treasures that will never be seen by all.”

“But it’s exquisite. It should be shared,” she protested.

“Perhaps, but I’m afraid it’s not possible. There are vested interests who would love to see it stolen or destroyed. This one piece must be protected. Fret not, the Vatican is aware of its location.”

“I’m sorry, what? Did you just say the Vatican?”

“It shouldn’t shock you. The hand of God has been instrumental in the safekeeping of texts and art for centuries. Secrets.” Viktor brought his hand upward, holding a finger to his smiling lips.

“This is…” Waverly scanned the room, taking in the sight of nearly fifty pieces of artwork, “it’s incredible.”

“I only collect it,” he explained.

Waverly pointed to an empty showcase. “The Monet?”

“Oui,” Viktor grinned. “It will do well for the world to see that particular painting. It reminds people that just because you don’t know something exists, it doesn’t mean it’s not real.”

“I can’t believe this is happening. I mean, I know there are private collections but these paintings…I don’t ever want to leave this room.” Waverly beamed.

“I do have my vices. I enjoy collecting the most beautiful, treasured pieces.” He gestured to the paintings. “Baxter would never allow me to have anything that brought me joy…no matter what it was. Like the monks I once lived with, love, a family, all those were out of my reach. And they’ve stayed out of my reach for centuries. Until now.”

“Viktor…” Waverly’s words failed her.

“I have something else to show you.” Viktor nodded his head toward the side table. “Over here.”

“I can’t believe this is real,” she managed as she followed Viktor back to the seating area.

“This piece must be kept sealed to account for humidity and whatnot. Come sit.” Viktor reached for a copper box, careful as he opened its lid.

Waverly slid onto the sofa next to him, her eyes wide as saucers as the item came into view. “Is that? There is no way. They were all destroyed.”

“Since we’re not in the library, it’s best we leave it concealed behind the glass. Do you recognize it?” he asked.

“I Modi?” Waverly gasped, her heart pounding against her ribs.

Viktor nodded.

“The Sixteen Pleasures. Marcantonio Raimondi. No, this isn’t impossible. The church had all copies of it destroyed,” she told him.