The Art of Redemption

08| Kimani

–
KITTY
–

The class came to a close as the alarm blared, and I carefully set aside my paintbrush, my gaze lingering on the canvas before me. The creation staring back wasn't bad at all.

A rare masterpiece in the works.

As I cleaned my brushes and tidied up my workspace, my professor's voice cut through the hum of activity in the studio. "Kimani, could I have a word with you?"

I turned to face him, intrigued by his request. We met by the door, and he handed me a beautifully designed invitation card. I took it in my hands, my curiosity piqued.

"What's this?" I asked, studying the elegant details on the card.

A smile tugged at the corners of his lips, his blue eyes glinting with excitement. "It's an invitation to the 77th Clyde Anniversary Art Exhibition. It's happening at Commodore in three days."

I gasped in excitement, my heart racing. This wasn't just any event; it was an opportunity to be in the presence of artistic geniuses like myself, a chance to showcase my work to the world. Bloody hell!

"Wow, thank you!" I exclaimed, my eyes shining with anticipation.

He nodded. "I had a feeling you might be interested. I believe this is a perfect platform for you to showcase your talent. Something new and fresh."

I couldn't agree more. "Absolutely! I can't wait!"

He smiled warmly. "My driver will pick you up on the day of the event."

Gratitude swelled within me. "Aww, thank you. This means the world to me."

Before he turned to leave, he glanced back at me. "By the way, Kimani, is your new piece ready?"

I hesitated for a moment before answering. "It will be ready by tomorrow, I promise."

He nodded approvingly. "Good. I'm looking forward to seeing it."

Yes!

–♥–

The urge to belch in front of my friends was killing me, but it was best I behaved myself to avoid disgrace and caution from them.

As the five of us sat in Cuckoo, the university restaurant, chatting and enjoying our lunch, their excitement for my upcoming exhibition was infectious.

I was about to share something with them when Tobi's voice cut through the lively chatter, his tone somber.

"Kitty, I can't help but feel uncomfortable with the way Van Buren is all over you, he's giving a vibe I'm not comfortable with, here me out here," Tobi stated, his gaze fixed on me.

His words hung in the air, casting a sudden shadow over our table. I exchanged a surprised glance with my friends, not expecting Tobi to bring up his concerns so openly.

"What do you mean?" I asked, my brows furrowing.

Tobi leaned in, his expression serious. "The way he's always doing these kind gestures for you, showing so much interest. It's... unsettling."

I tried to keep my composure, though I felt my cheeks flush with a mix of embarrassment and frustration. "Tobi, he's just being supportive of my art."

He shook his head, his worry evident. "It's more than that, Kim. I've seen the way he looks at you."

Mirabella chimed in, her voice firm. " Van Buren is different from other professors. He genuinely cares about his students' success, especially in the field of arts. It's not unusual for him to be involved and show support. Tobi I will not condole  any Buren slander"

Tobi's concern was touching, but I had to stand up for my professor too. "Tobi, I understand your worry, but I assure you, he is a professional. He's been a great mentor and he's friends with my dad."

Tobi's gaze didn't waver. "I just don't want anyone taking advantage of you."

Before I could respond, Mirabella interjected. "Tobi, Kimani's not a child. She can handle herself. And Van Buren is not the kind of person you're imagining."

Tobi's determination was unwavering. "I still don't like it. I'll take you to the exhibition myself."

Mirabella raised an eyebrow. "You don't even have an invitation."

"I'll get one," Tobi stated firmly.

I could feel the tension in the air, and though I appreciated Tobi's concern, I was torn between his protectiveness and my own need to make my decisions.

"Kitty, say something," Mirabella's voice cut through the uncertainty, her gaze fixed on me with a mixture of worry and curiosity.

My mind raced, agitated and unsure of how to navigate this unexpected turn of events.

"Kitty, I'm sorry."

Tobi's hand found mine, his fingers gently squeezing mine, a silent reassurance that he was there for me.

I breathed in and out and with a concerted effort, I managed to summon a warm smile, hoping it would calm the inner storm that had taken hold of me.

"I'm fine guys."

–♥–

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A/N - Hey Redemmers!

Okay, so this chapter is a bit short, nothing much on here, but, let's talk about Tobi's concern. In my opinion I think he has all the right in the world to be worried.

But what's your honest opinion of Van Buren? Does he give you the ick or he seems like a nice guy?

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