Cold Water

THIRTEEN

                      ♡BRANDON♡

   The next day dawned bright and clear, and I woke up with a mix of excitement and nervousness.

  The events of yesterday felt like a dream-an unexpectedly pleasant day that had left me eager to see Athalia again.

  I had spent the morning preparing for her visit, tidying up my room, and making sure my drawings were organized.

I glanced at the clock and realized I had some time before she was due to arrive.

  I used the extra time to go over my drawings again, making sure the one I'd done for her was front and centre.

  It felt like a small but significant gesture, and I wanted it to be just right.

  As noon approached, I started pacing a bit, my nerves getting the best of me.

  I tried to remind myself that she was a friend, and there was no reason to be anxious.

I mean, were we even friends?

  Still, the anticipation of sharing something so personal with someone made me feel jittery.

  A little while later, the doorbell rang. I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart, and went downstairs to answer it.

  Aunt Dina was in the kitchen, humming to herself as she prepared lunch. I gave her a quick smile and headed to the door.

  When I opened it, there was Athalia, looking as cheerful as ever.

  She was wearing a casual yet stylish outfit, and her chestnut brown eyes sparkled with excitement.

  "Hey, Brandon." she greeted, her voice bright. "I'm here, ready to see some amazing art."

  "Hi, Athalia," I said, smiling back at her. "Come on in."

  She stepped inside, and I led her up to my room. The atmosphere felt light and casual, and I was relieved that the tension from yesterday was gone.

  I showed her around, pointing out a few of my favourite pieces and explaining what inspired them.

  When we got to the drawing I'd done for her, I felt a bit nervous, but I tried to play it cool.

  "So..... this is the one I made for you," I said, pulling it out from the folder.

Athalia's eyes widened as she looked at it. "Wow, Brandon, this is beautiful."

  She looked up at me, and my breath hitched.

  "Thank you. I love it." She says and hugs me.

  I stiffen for a while, still not used to this type of physical touch.

  I relax a bit and hug her back.

  I felt a flush of warmth at her praise. "I'm glad you like it. I wanted to capture something that felt like you-positive and thoughtful."

  She studied the drawing, a smile spreading across her face. "You really did. It's amazing how you captured me. Thank you."

  Her words made me feel a rush of relief and happiness.

  I hadn't realized how much I needed this validation and how much it meant to me for someone to appreciate my work in such a personal way.

  We spent the next few hours chatting, sharing stories, and discussing art.

  Athalia was genuinely interested in my work, asking thoughtful questions and giving insightful feedback.

  It was refreshing and encouraging to talk to someone who not only understood art but also seemed to connect with it on a deeper level.