[Previously titled 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲]
❝No, Ace. I can't do it," I sob.
"I know you can take more than that, sunshine, come on," he encourages, pummeling into me in fervent motions. "One more for daddy, yeah?" He coaxes in a gruffly voice...
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O L I V I A
"Everyone, please step forward in turn," Ace speaks as he exits the showroom, capturing everyone's attention. "In raking order, the highest is on the top left shelf at the entrance," he concludes, and the group buzzes with anticipation.
Nervously, I find myself at the back of the line. Just before entering, Ace's hand brushes mine. It's a small gesture, but it eases my anxiety, bringing a hopeful smile to my lips.
The room reveals a display of artworks, and I scan each shelf, my heart racing. I've invested so much of myself into this project, yet I remind myself not to expect too much. Despite my efforts, my work isn't in sight. Disappointment sets in, a bittersweet reality.
"Oh, my God. I got first place!" Jordan's excited voice slices through my thoughts, and my attention snaps to her.
"Wow, congrats!" Sam exclaims, moving closer to admire Jordan's victorious artwork.
"Amazing! So happy for you," I chime in, giving her a congratulatory hug that almost threatens to break her ribs.
"Thanks, babes," Jordan returns the hug, her grin infectious. "How about you both?" She asks and Sam's shoulders droop slightly.
"I'm in the later part," she says and we look at her with sympathy, and then Jordan turns her gaze to me.
"And you, Vee?"
"Hey, Liv!" Everett's voice interrupts from a distance, and our heads turn in unison. "Isn't that your work?" He asks, pointing towards a nearby shelf.
My heart skips a beat and we rush towards the mentioned shelf. Surprised and filled with happiness, I'm proud of my better-than-expected ranking.
"Wow, your painting is seriously impressive," Jordan compliments, and I smile brightly.
"It's a departure from your usual style. You took risks, and it paid off," Everett adds.
"I agree. The concept you conveyed is really intriguing," Sam chimes in.
"Thank you, guys. Your words mean so much," I reply, genuinely touched by their praise.
"But you know what would be even cooler?" Sam says, and we turn our attention to her, intrigued. "Having an after-party to celebrate!"
"I'm up for it," Everett readily agrees.
"Count me in too. I know the perfect bar for it," Jordan adds with a triumphant grin.
Amid their conversation, my attention shifts abruptly as my phone buzzes in my pocket. My heart skips a beat at the sight of Ace's name, and a small, uncontrollable smile tugs at my lips. Checking the message discreetly, I step away to respond without my friends noticing.
