Paint Me, Professor | Student-Professor Erotic Novel | 18+ | ✔️

63 - Fireplace

Alison
***

The last day at Kent's studio was chaotic to say the least. We had to get the artworks ready to be shipped to the exhibition site. We had to wrap protective casings around each piece, make sure they were organized in their proper order, and sort out all the paperwork. It was the last stretch of a long and arduous journey.

When everything was done, when every last job was complete, Gary opened a champagne bottle to celebrate.

"A toast for my two loyal helpers." He announced, raising up his glass. "Without you, I wouldn't have been able to do this. You've helped me making my dreams into reality."

Kent was never one to be serious, but when it came to saying thanks, he was sincere. David, however, wasn't having any of the sappiness. As soon as Kent was finished with his words, David drank his whole glass in one gulp.

Gary and I just looked at each other and burst out laughing. Kent probably thought David was drinking to celebrate our collective accomplishment, but I knew he was drinking because he was relieved it was finally over.

"Alright, so there's still a few months before the exhibition is shown to the public," explained Kent, sipping his champagne. "That's usually how things go. When I know the definite day of the opening night, I'll send you an invitation. I want to introduce both of you as my collaborators."

"That's so exciting." I said, voicing my true feelings. "Thank you so much Kent, it really means a lot."

"It's the least I can do. Besides, I want to be credited with launching two new brilliant and hardworking artists into the scene."

"Then you'll be able to brag about working with us." Said David, the champagne getting to his head. Gary laughed and I joined in. I had no doubt David had the potential of becoming a celebrated artist one day. I was just happy to have such as awesome opportunity to work on a collection so early on in my career.

"Before you go, I have one last thing for you. Well, technically two."

Kent went to the kitchen and came back holding two long envelopes and two wrapped presents.

"You thought I'd forget about the letters of recommendation?" He smirked, handing us the pristine looking envelops. "And also early Christmas presents because why not?"

David and I took our gifts and unwrapped them, revealing a box full of artesanal chocolates of different flavors. It was actually a very thoughtful gift and I made sure to show my appreciation by giving Kent a heartfelt hug.

When everything was said and done, the three of us made our way downstairs, Kent turning off the studio lights and locking the door. The whole experience sure was handwork, but I had so much fun. I'd miss the place.

It was almost midnight when I said goodbye to the boys and made my way down the road to where Chris was parked. I had texted him fifteen minutes earlier, so I was sure he had already arrived.

As I walked in the frigid cold air, I looked back to make sure I wasn't being followed. When I turned a corner and disappeared out of their sights, I practically sprinted towards Chris' car.

When I opened the door, the warmth of the AC enveloped me like a hug. My body instantly relaxed and my teeth stopped gritting from the cold.

"Well, that didn't end so late," said Chris as he pulled his car in reverse. "I thought you'd tell me to come pick you up at like two in the morning."

"I made sure the boys worked quickly." I said, taking off my scarf and putting it by my feet. "I had a pretty good motivation to get out of there fast."