Dandelion Fields of Gold

Tear Stained Canvases

Whenever I break down I always turn to art. It doesn't judge me. It doesn't talk to me. It just listens and portrays what I'm feeling. Art understands me.

I went directly to the art classroom where I found Mrs. Sanders the art teacher seated at her desk sipping a cup of coffee.

As soon as she saw me she grabbed me a clear canvas and a clean isle for me to use.

"Just let it all flow out, Lexi." She told me in her usual sorrow filled voice.

"Thank you, Mrs. Sanders."

I grabbed my paint brush and delicately wet the tip.

I was in the mood to paint a singular flower in an empty garden.

I felt alone. I felt weak, exposed, and fragile... Tears spilled down my cheeks as I started with the back ground. Acrylic paint was my favorite for canvas based art. It gave a texture to the art that made it seem real and alive.

By the time I had finished, it was well passed school being out.

I had lost track of time as always, but I didn't care. I felt more refreshed and clear after completing the painting.

"That is very beautiful, Lexi! Your talent is absolutely outstanding!" Mrs. Sanders exclaimed.

"Thank you. You can keep it if you like." I added as I started cleaning up.

"Oh sweetie! You should really keep this one! It is absolutely beautiful and I bet your parents will love it! Besides, I own way too many of your paintings anyway!" She insisted.

"Alright, thank you, Mrs. Sanders. I'll see you tomorrow." I grabbed the painting and headed out the door.

As I passed the music room at the end of the hall I heard someone playing the piano.

The sounds coming from the room were absolutely beautiful and I couldn't help but look through the small window in the door.

Chris sat at the grand piano in the middle of the large room. His eyes were closed and his face showed intense concentration.

His brows were slightly furrowed while the rest of his face remained calm and full of professional composure.

The song was sad and full of so much emotion; it began to stir my tears back to the surface of my eyes.

Before I could stop myself I had somehow managed to enter the music room and sat in a chair near the door; making sure I was quiet.

He continued playing undisturbed; his back towards me.

I decided to pull out that dandelion sketch I had worked on in the morning. The music was perfect for the drawing's mood.

Staring at the pencil marks I realized that somehow this dandelion reminded me of Chris. It was unique, lonely, strong, and independent, just like him.

Was that just a coincidence? Or was I meant to meet Chris?

"Are you doing ok?" A voice said, interrupting my thoughts.

I looked up to see Chris standing beside me.

"I-I uhh... Yeah. I'm fine." I paused.

"You played beautifully."

"Oh, thank you. I hadn't even noticed you walked in... Are you sure that you are ok?" He said with concern on his face.

"I thought I might have said something to upset you, but Claire said to leave you be."

There was clearly some guilt in his voice.

"Oh no! You said nothing wrong. I-I'm just going through a tough time right now." I added.

"Would you like to talk about it?" He asked with so much sincerity.

"Well-"

And before I could finish my sentence he sat beside me showing that he wasn't going to take no for an answer.

"I may have just met you, Lexi, but I want you to know that you can tell me anything and I will be here to listen, because I CARE. Always."

I looked at him. Just staring into his beautiful green eyes. Shoot... The tears were coming back. Someone who finally understands me wants to listen. Wants to comfort me. I never imagined that I would meet some handsome boy who would tell me that he wants to listen.

That was all I wanted. Someone to listen.

I began to tell him about the day I learned I had a brain tumor. I told him of the dandelion meadow where I always run to if I'm feeling down. I even told him about my addiction to art and how it cleanses my pain.

He never once faltered his sincere gaze. He continued to stare directly into my eyes and encouraged me to go on.

When I had finished telling my story I could feel the tears about to spill over in my eyes and I tried so hard to hold them back, but then Chris placed his gentle hand on mine. He stared right into my eyes and said, "Thank you, Lexi."

My tears spilled over and I began to sob. I didn't care anymore that he was watching me acting all weak and embarrassed.

He grabbed me into an embrace and whispered to me, "You are so strong, Lexi. Don't forget that."

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