The Art of Letting Go - ENGLOT

Chapter 7

Ensley's POV:

As I watched Celestine walk towards her seat, I couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement in my chest. I couldn't deny the growing crush I had on her, no matter how hard I tried.

From the moment she walked into my studio, something about her had drawn me in. Maybe it was the way she held herself, so confident yet vulnerable at the same time. Or maybe it was her gorgeous eyes and infectious smile.

Whatever it was, I knew that I was hooked.

As the days went on, I found myself looking forward to each and every one of our classes together. Her smile, her laugh, the way her eyes lit up when she talked about something she was passionate about...all of it just made me want her more.

Every time she looked my way, I felt like I was glowing inside. I was completely and utterly infatuated with her.

During class, Celestine and I were chatting and having fun like we always did. We talked about my latest artworks, our favorite books, and dream vacation destinations. As I listened to Celestine talk so animatedly, I couldn't help but feel drawn to her even more.

"So what are you painting today?" I asked, trying to keep my tone light as I moved closer to her.

"Maybe a rabbit or a penguin" Celestine replied, showing me her sketch. "I'm trying to incorporate what we just learned earlier, so I want to paint something realistically."

"Ooh, that's a great idea," I said, leaning in closer to her. "The rabbit seems like the better option. So much depth and emotion already even just for a sketch."

"Thanks, Ensley," Celestine said, blushing a little. "You always know how to make me feel better about my art."

I grinned at her, hoping to convey through my eyes how much I liked her.

"I mean it," I said, looking deep into her eyes. "You're more talented than you give yourself credit for Celestine."

Celestine smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners.

"That means a lot coming from you," she said. "Your work is incredible, Ensley."

I felt my heart flutter at her words, but I tried to play it cool. "That means a lot coming from you too."

I was trying to flirt with her subtly, hoping she would pick up on my hints, but she seemed completely oblivious. To my surprise, Celestine didn't seem to notice or acknowledge it. Was she straight? Did she just see me as a friend?

"So, Celestine, have you ever considered modeling for one of our art projects?" I asked her, trying to keep the conversation light.

She looked at me, a puzzled expression on her face. "Uh, no, I haven't. Why do you ask?"

I shrugged, trying to play it cool. "Just thought it could be fun. I mean, you're beautiful, so why not?"

As soon as I said it, I regretted it. Why was I being so obvious? Was I really that transparent?

But Celestine just laughed, looking a little embarrassed. "Thanks, Ensley. That's very sweet of you to say."

And just like that, the moment was gone. We continued chatting as if nothing happened, but I couldn't help but wonder if Celestine was straight. She never talked about her love life, and she never seemed to pick up on my subtle hints. But I couldn't give up hope just yet. Maybe there was still a chance that we could be more than just friends...

...

As the class wore on, my thoughts drifted back to Celestine. I couldn't help but keep stealing glances at her, hoping for any sort of sign that she felt the same way about me. But nothing was forthcoming.