Art School (Theodor Andrei x Original Female Character)

3. Darned close

"Good morning, I am Dr. Saviana Radu, your substitute lecturer. As Prof. Palmer will be absent for a while due to personal reasons, I will conduct with your group practical classes and workshops in our program."

"Allow me to share a little bit about myself. I come from a background deeply rooted in the performing arts, particularly in theatre and music. I've had the privilege of working with talented artists and students from all walks of life, and I must say, there is nothing more fulfilling than witnessing the growth and creative spirit within each of you. I am absolutely thrilled to get to know every one of you." she paused, smiled widely and looked at the faces of the students.

"In our practical workshops, we will delve into various techniques, and collaborative projects that will test your skills, ignite your imagination, and encourage you to be brave. I believe in the power of hands-on experiences and learning by doing, so be prepared to immerse yourselves fully in the creative process. Let's make this together!"

Meanwhile in the theatre history class, Professor Davis delivered an engaging lecture on the evolution of performance styles throughout the centuries. Among the students were Zoe, Ethan, and Theodor.

"An artist is a sort of emotional or spiritual historian. It's your role as the future actors. Your role is to make the spectator realize the doom and glory of knowing who they are and what they are. You are the one to tell, because nobody else in the world can tell, what it is like to be alive. Always remember that, when you step on a stage."

Theodor's hand shot up eagerly, his eyes shining with confidence. "Yes, Mr. Andrei, please go ahead," the professor encouraged.

"I think our role as actors is to ask questions, not to answer them. Theatre should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable." The students froze, when Theodor's voice filled the room as he began to articulate his response. No one has so far dared to question the professor's words.

"I can't believe he said that out loud", whispered Zoe.

"On the other hand, there are those who go to the theatre as they would go to a brothel. For pure entertainment and pleasure." added Theodor, arousing general hilarity in the room with this statement.

However, Ethan observed Theodor's every move, analyzing his answers and interactions with the rest of the class. Ethan's competitive impulse kicked in, causing him to subtly assert his presence and position in the group.

"You know that from your own experience, Theodor?" he teased.

"Gentlemen", the professor interrupted this verbal fencing. "Please leave your egos out of my class."

After the lecture concluded, Theodor approached Ethan, his face wearing a puzzled expression. "Hey, Ethan, what's your problem? I've noticed your subtle jabs and challenges. If there's something bothering you, I'd rather talk it over."

Ethan's gaze hardened, his competitive nature pushing him to engage in a battle for establishing dominance.

"Problem? No problem. I just find it interesting how quickly you seem to have become the centre of attention, Theodor. Stop showing off."

Theodor raised an eyebrow, his voice calm yet strong: "I don't like your tone, Ethan. If you need more attention, go back to your parents."

That remark about parents poked Ethan right in the heart. Little did Theodor know, how complicated Ethan's relationship with his parents was. It had left a mark on his psyche. Growing up, he felt starved for attention and recognition from them, their focus was often concentrated on their own obligations. It seemed as though Ethan poured his heart and soul into his creative passions to distract himself from the fact, that he felt extremely lonely as a child. He sought solace in the arts, using his talents as perfect cover for his unexpressed emotions. The stage became his sanctuary, a place where he could draw attention and find the recognition he yearned for.