Echoes of the past

Chapter 1
Meeting again

Lila Morgan stood in the bustling gallery, feeling somewhat out of place despite being surrounded by her own artwork. The room was filled with art enthusiasts, critics, and potential buyers, their conversations a low hum against the backdrop of soft classical music. She took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. It had been a challenging year, and this exhibition was a significant opportunity to relaunch her career.

She sipped her champagne and scanned the room. Her gaze fell on a tall man with dark hair, his back to her as he studied one of her paintings. There was something familiar about him, a memory tugging at the edges of her mind.

"Ethan?" she whispered to herself, a mix of surprise and apprehension bubbling up inside her.

As if he heard her, the man turned. Her heart skipped a beat. It was Ethan Clarke, looking even more handsome than she remembered. His sharp jawline, piercing blue eyes, and the confident way he carried himself were all the same, yet there was a new maturity about him.

Ethan's eyes locked onto hers, and for a moment, the world around them seemed to fade away. He approached her with a smile that was both warm and hesitant.

"Lila," he said, his voice a smooth, rich baritone that sent shivers down her spine. "It's been a long time."

"Ten years," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "I didn't expect to see you here."

"I could say the same," he said, glancing around at the paintings. "Your work is impressive. You've grown as an artist."

"Thank you," she said, feeling a flush of pride despite herself. "And you? What brings you to this exhibition?"

"I'm working on a new project," Ethan explained. "A building downtown. I wanted to see if I could find an artist to commission for a mural."

Their conversation was interrupted by Rebecca Harrison, Lila's best friend and the gallery owner.

"Lila, darling, there you are," Rebecca said, her voice effervescent as always. "Oh, I see you've met Ethan Clarke. He's one of our biggest patrons."

Lila's eyes widened in surprise. "I had no idea."

"Yes, Ethan's firm is designing the new cultural center," Rebecca continued. "I was hoping you two would connect."

Ethan gave Lila a knowing smile. "Seems like fate, doesn't it?"

Lila couldn't help but smile back. "Maybe it does."

As the evening wore on, Lila and Ethan found themselves drawn to each other, their conversations flowing easily. They reminisced about their shared past, the dreams they had once discussed, and the paths their lives had taken. The old chemistry between them was undeniable, but so were the unresolved feelings and the questions left unanswered from their abrupt breakup.

By the end of the night, Ethan made an offer. "I'd like you to consider the mural commission. It could be a great opportunity for you."

Lila hesitated, knowing it would mean working closely with him. "I'll think about it."

"Good," he said, his eyes softening. "I'd like us to have a chance to reconnect, Lila. There's so much we left unsaid."

She nodded, her emotions a whirlwind of excitement and apprehension. "Yes, there is."

As the guests began to leave and the gallery emptied, Lila found herself standing alone, contemplating the evening's events. Seeing Ethan again had stirred up memories and emotions she thought she had buried long ago. The idea of working with him was both thrilling and terrifying.