POTION OF LOVE

11. 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞

Lucas- 13 years

"Dad, the teacher says that I should paint fruits but I don't like them." I huff, crossing my arms and looking at the newly brought canvas by my dad. I hear his soft Chuckle as he stands behind me, his hands on my shoulders giving me a gentle squeeze

"I know you don't like it but when you mix your likes and dislikes, it helps in growth. If you paint something you don't like, maybe you will start liking it?" He says, making me look at him confused, "And what if I still don't like it?"

My dad hums "Then that means it's not meant for you. Don't force yourself but don't give up before trying "

•Present
It worked. When I wasn't able to express myself or didn't like something, painting always helped me overcome it. I was always able to express feelings without being judged

Dad's advice always worked

As my paintbrush moved across the canvas, I could imagine her slowly appearing on it. Each stroke brings her to life on the surface

Would painting something I dislike, will it change my opinion?

I don't know

But when I saw her on the stage, looking eternal made me realise that she does have a secret spark in her.

I don't make portraits. It's been years since I painted someone with the fear of being laughed at. I thought to stop and continue with painting lifeless things yet each of my paintings had something that showed the beauty of life

Whether it's the trees or birds or water

But never a person

Despite all of the conflicted feelings storming inside my head. My brush glides over the soft surface creating her image to shape. Her graceful curves were wrapped in beautiful silk. The way she moved like a breeze of wind yet had a power behind it

The multiple colours spread my palette, each mixed with others trying to bring the perfect tone to match her skin tone

Even after so many tries, I can't do it properly. I needed her in front of me so I could compare and paint without any flaws, just like her. Mixing a few skin shades, I make something close enough to her complexion and shape her face

The soft curve of her smile, the gentle slope of her nose. The way her eyes wrinkle when she laughs, the tiny scrunch on her forehead due to the subtle nervousness.

The way her hair falls over her shoulder casting a shade to the side of her face. Her dress shimmered under the bright sun due to the silver highlights on the material. The golden hue over her face complimented her honey-toned skin

Each brushstroke is a reflection of the memory that I captured. I intend to preserve this memory here, to secure it in a place that is special to me. My canvas will hold this forever, as long as I want.