𝑼𝒏𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒌𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝑩𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒔: 𝑨𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑼𝒔

Chapter XII: Reminiscing Hues

Despite my nerves, I feel a sense of excitement and pride about my art exhibition and can't wait to share my new art pieces and cafe with my family and friends. I've worked hard to perfect every detail and are confident that it will be a success.

As the grand opening finally arrived, I felt a sense of nervous anticipation as I greeted my guests and showed them around the gallery and cafe. Since the location of my art exhibit is inside my Cafe, the area was packed with art collectors, guests, customers, family and relatives, friends and acquaintances.

Seeing how everyone is looking around and admiring everything, my heart melts with so much joy.

I am very relieved to see Kylie arrive, and despite feeling a pang of pain as she resembles Kye so much, I greet her warmly, unsure of what to say about my relationship with his younger brother, Kye.

To my surprise, Kylie immediately brings up my past with Kye, expressing her sadness over the way things ended between us two. She admits that she always thought that we were a great match and was disappointed when things didn't work out.

I felt a mix of emotions - relief that she seems to be understanding and supportive, but also a tinge of sadness at the reminder of what could have been. Nevertheless, I chat with Kylie and enjoy showing her around my art exhibition and cafe.

"Oh my! I see your artworks are mostly about you and Kye huh." She said teasing me which I shyly nodded.

"Don't be shy and I will be buying four of your art pieces, since I already eyed the ones I wanna buy so don't go selling it to other people okay?" She said winking at me.

As the evening came to an end and the guests began to depart, I experienced a feeling of satisfaction and achievement. Despite feeling anxious, the event went seamlessly, and I am delighted with the positive response and encouragement I received from my parents, who came all the way from Canada, friends, and even Kylie, who traveled from the United States.

Kylie showed her admiration for my art by purchasing four pieces, and even my mother bought three. Other guests also purchased their own artwork, and it brought me great pleasure to witness everyone appreciating my creations.

As I gazed upon my paintings, I knew that they told the stories of my journey and my love for Kyle. And while I missed him terribly, I knew that he was always there with me, watching me from afar.

"Thank you, Mom," I said, hugging her tightly.

"Always, my darling. I'll always be here for you," she replied, returning the embrace.

I knew that with my mom's support, and with Kye guiding me in silence, I would continue to create art that would inspire and touch people's lives.

As the last few guests trickled out of the gallery, I took a deep breath and let my shoulders relax. The exhibit had been a huge success, and I couldn't quite believe it was over. It had been a long few months of planning, creating, and promoting, but seeing my artwork appreciated by so many people had made it all worth it.

My parents hugged me tightly, their eyes shining with pride. "You did such an amazing job, sweetheart," my mom said, kissing my cheek. "We're so proud of you."

My dad added his own compliments, beaming at me. "You're so talented, kiddo. You're going to go far."

I hugged them back, feeling grateful for their support. Having them there to see my work had meant so much to me.

Harper was next, giving me a fierce hug that lifted me off my feet. "I am so freaking proud of you," she said, grinning. "Your art is incredible."

I smiled, feeling grateful for her infectious enthusiasm. Harper had been there for me every step of the way, pushing me to keep going when I felt like giving up. She was my biggest cheerleader, and I knew I couldn't have done it without her.

Kye's sister Kylie lingered for a moment, a wistful expression on her face. "I'm going to miss seeing your work, good thing I bought a lot" she said, teasing. "You're so talented."

I thanked her, feeling a pang of sadness that the exhibit was over. Having my art on display had become a part of my daily routine, and the thought of it being packed up and put away was bittersweet.

As we left the gallery, I felt a mix of emotions. Relief that it was over, happiness that it had been such a success, and sadness that it was all coming to an end. It had been a long journey to get here, but it was worth it to see my artwork appreciated by so many people.

We decided to celebrate with dinner at a restaurant, and as we sat down at the table, I felt a sense of accomplishment wash over me. It was a good feeling, knowing that I had created something that had touched people and made them feel something.

Over dinner, we talked about the exhibit, reliving our favorite moments and laughing about the unexpected ones. We also had a discussion about Kye. We were all sad he didn't attend the exhibit. Knowing how much it pained me, Kylie assured me that she will give Kye a hard smack on his head when she sees him. It made us all laugh. It was a night I would never forget, surrounded by people who loved and supported me.

As we said our goodbyes and went our separate ways, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experience. It had been a long road, but I had made it to the other side, and I knew that whatever came next, I was ready for it. My artwork had found its place in the world, and I was excited to see where it would take me next.