Chapter 119
+25 BONUS
Emily made a quick stop at a mall’s makeup store to apply a light, everyday look. She had rushed out earlier that morning without any makeup, and after her shower, even the remnants of her foundation were gone.
While there, she also picked up some pastries to bring as a gift for Wilfred, remembering he had mentioned enjoying them during their last conversation.
Once ready, she called a car and headed to the address Wilfred had sent her.
The destination was a street in the elegant Mistletoe neighborhood, surrounded by French–style villas. The romantic and elegant architecture immediately made her think this must be where Wilfred lived.
When she rang the doorbell, it was Wilfred himself who opened the door. To her surprise, upon entering, she realized she was the only one he had invited.
Emily had initially thought this was a private art exhibition and expected a small gathering of guests. She felt a fleeting moment of surprise but quickly composed herself.
An assistant took the gift bag from her, and she couldn’t help but notice that the villa’s interior matched its exterior, decorated in a romantic French style.
“This villa was originally prepared for my sister, Haley, who’s visiting here for artistic inspiration,” Wilfred explained.
“That makes sense,” Emily thought.
“Have a seat,” Wilfred said, placing a cup of mocha in front of her. “This is Haley’s favorite. Try it.”
“Thank you,” Emily replied, accepting the coffee.
To her surprise, she liked mocha as well, just like Haley. However, she chose not to mention it. After all, plenty of women liked mocha, and she didn’t want Wilfred to think she was trying to establish a connection unnecessarily. “How is it?” Wilfred asked.
“It’s very good,” she replied politely.
At that moment, an assistant approached them. “Sir, everything is ready.”
Wilfred nodded, stood up, and led Emily to the second–floor studio. Noticing her slight unease, he thoughtfully asked a maid to accompany them.
Emily appreciated his attention to detail. Having the maid there did make her feel more at ease.
The second–floor studio was neatly arranged, with several paintings and sketches scattered around. On an easel stood an unfinished painting. The cleanliness of the studio reflected the owner’s meticulous care for the space.
One wall displayed framed artworks, and Emily found one of them strikingly familiar.
“Is this… the painting that was exhibited in Merika State a while back?” she asked.
“It is,” Wilfred confirmed.
It was “The Rhythm of Life,” a piece Emily had regretted missing during its exhibition in Merika State. She had assumed she would never get the chance to see it in person. Standing before it now felt like a chance to fulfill that Most opportunity.
Without realizing it, Emily moved closer to the painting, her eyes focused intently on it. She felt an inexplicable connection to the work, as if she could sense the artist’s emotions and state of mind during its creation.
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Chapter 119
+25 BONUS
She considered it a form of artistic resonance. As she moved through the other paintings, she experienced a similar sensation with each one. It was a unique feeling, unlike anything she had felt when viewing other people’s work.
It felt both familiar and foreign.
Wilfred didn’t interrupt her, allowing her to take her time. Finally, she stopped in front of the unfinished painting.
“This painting…” she said, observing the brushstrokes. “It looks like it was started three years ago.”
“Yes,” Wilfred explained, joining her. “Haley started this during her visit here three years ago.”
The painting depicted the seaside of a coastal city, its pristine state untouched by development. Emily recognized the area as a breathtakingly beautiful spot she often visited during her free time.
“This painting has been left unfinished for three years,” Wilfred continued. “Miss Yates, if you have the time, would you be willing to help complete it on Haley’s behalf?” he asked sincerely.
