King of Hearts

9.

Val can't remember what happened after dinner. She was so tired, that she immediately fell asleep. She almost forgot where she is when she opens her eyes to find out that she is lying on a thin mattress, not in her room.
The room she slept in is plain and simple. The walls are of a washed-out white. On the right side of the door, there is a wooden grey dresser with scratched drawers. Above it hangs a simple oval mirror. The window on the right side of the room allows the bright sunlight to come in through the sheer light green curtains as if promising a good day. 

Val arises, now sitting upright so that she can further examine the room. 

Next to her is a wooden bed, smaller and lower than what she is used to. On top of it lies Dánica still asleep, smiling faintly. Below the window, Val makes out the shape of a wooden table with a dark brown chair in front of it. The only colorful thing that appeals the most in the room is something bright lying on top of the desk next to a tiny cactus. Val silently stands up and approaches the desk. She is mesmerized by the beautiful sight. A painting of a sunset is depicted on a small sheet of paper. The colors are perfectly shaded going from purple to orange. Pencils, colors, and other utensils are spread across the table. 

Abruptly, she hears sheets rustling from behind her. Dánica is already sitting upright on the bed while rubbing one eye with her hand. She yawns and then stares at Val a little sleepy, a little surprised as if she too forgot about her presence. For some reason, Val feels uncomfortable, as if invading someone's privacy. 
"You are really talented", Val breaks the awkward silence. Soon Dánica's face brightens, and a bubbly smile comes through. "You really think so? Thanks," she answers shyly. She grabs a comb from her bedside table and starts brushing her long wavy hair.

"Sometimes when I feel stressed or a little down, I like to paint. It's just a small hobby of mine, nothing too serious", she adds. She puts the comb on her bedside table and rolls out of bed. Val replies, "I mean it. It's beautiful, the color choice, the shading. To me, it looks like the work of a professional, really."
"Oh no, I still have a long way to go before someone can call me a professional. You seem rather informed, though. Do you paint as well?" Dánica's eyes grow wider, anticipating Val's response. Her yesterday sky-blue eyes have now a curious turquoise tone to them.
"Yes, but it's also just a hobby. I know that there isn't much you can do with art in your life." Val's voice lowers and suddenly she wants to change the subject.

Her thoughts are all about her father and how he is strictly against Val's dream. Val, however, can't imagine choosing a career that doesn't involve art. Painting is the only thing that she never gets tired of, the only thing she's passionate about. It's what represents her. But on the other hand, thinking about what her mother has said yesterday, she doesn't want to disappoint her family.

"Oh, I'm sure there is plenty you can do with it", Dánica smiles, offering Val her comb. She accepts it with a weak smile. "Today I will introduce you to my daily activities. You will be of huge help since I always have a lot to do. I am glad to have someone to help me. But first, we need to get you changed into something more ... fitting. I mean, I like your clothes, they are very pretty and unique but in Senfira, we wear different attire. I will gladly lend you my clothes, pick anything you like", Dánica kindly offers. 

Val is touched by her consideration and generosity. She reminds her of Stella who is very fond of sharing. By that, she means clothes and food, books, secrets, even her phone. Val misses her friends.

"Thank you, that's very kind of you", Val responds, smiling gratefully. Dánica blushes lightly and waves her hand as if saying "No problem".
She opens a few drawers of her wardrobe and picks out a few dresses. "I'm sorry that I don't have much, I don't usually spend money on clothes", she shyly apologizes gazing at the colors on her desk. Val totally comprehends her. However, there is indeed a shortage of choices, she wonders how much she makes or gets paid at all, but she doesn't ask.