In the car, I returned the bag to Christopher and collapsed into the chair quietly. Christopher ruffled my hair affectionately with a smile. “Were you scared?”
I glared at him. “I was so frightened my legs went wobbly. Your mom saw me holding a bag full of condoms. I’m so embarrassed!”
Christopher burst out laughing and teased me for being a coward. I took a condom out of the bag and tossed it at him. “Hurry up and send me back home. You have a pretty date waiting for you at Clove Eatery, after all. Remember to take away some food for me later.”
“Do you want me to bring you back a couple’s set?” Christopher teased. “You’re jealous.”
“No, I’m not!” However, my denial sounded like the cover-up of a guilty person.
“Alright, you’re not jealous. By the way, I left something for you on the coffee table. After considering carefully, give me your answer. I’ll be waiting for you,” said Christopher out of nowhere.
When we arrived, Christopher gave me a steamy kiss and flashed his headlights three times as usual. He was about to leave when I yelled out, “Christopher, what does flashing the headlights thrice mean?”
“Why don’t you make a guess? Eve, I’ll wait for your correct answer.” With that, Christopher stepped on the accelerator and sped away. It just so happened that a car was driving past, so he flashed the headlights three times on purpose and stuck his head out of the window.
“If you get it correct, you’ll get a prize. Let’s see who gets the correct answer first. I still remember the story about the planes and love.” Christopher grinned.
I watched as his flashy sports car sped away. Pouting, I muttered to myself, “Why is he so mysterious? I’m sure I’ll be able to get it right!”
Back home, I rummaged around the coffee table before noticing a card. It was an invitation card, so I thought it was for a party or something similar. When I read it carefully, it turned out to be an invitation to join a contest—the National Youth Art Exhibition and Contest.
It seemed like it was a reputable event that would be held three months later. I spotted a few renowned artists among the judges who I got to know when I first started learning how to draw. Recently, most contests had turned into publicity stunts and advertisements, but still, the top three winners of the contest had to be capable enough to secure the spots.
Where did Christopher get the invitation from?
I held the card as mixed emotions overwhelmed my heart. Christopher seemed strangely confident in my skills. He was sure I could produce a breathtaking art piece. I had no idea where he got his confidence from.
My first thought was to say no. The contest would be held three months later. It would take around six months for the few rounds of exhibitions to end. I was certain I wouldn’t even qualify for the second round with my horrible drawing skills.
Strangely, Monica’s face popped up in my mind. She was glowing brightly like the moon, while Christopher was burning like the sun. One of them was burning with passion, while the other was as gentle as flowing water.
After our previous discussion, Christopher didn’t mention he wanted to bring me back home again. Is he giving me a chance to show my talent and let me shine so I can visit his parents confidently?
As I caressed the card, my heart leaped in joy. He had paved the path for me, so I should forge ahead bravely and show my talents. No one would want to be a nobody. In the end, I kept the card carefully in the drawer.
I took out my easel as inspiration flowed out like water escaping a dam. I hurriedly drew everything out on paper. Eyes that couldn’t cry; the blissful feeling; everything could be expressed in a painting.
When my phone rang, I thought it was Christopher. I answered and asked with a smile, “What is it?”
Lyle’s voice sounded over the line. “Yvonne, forgive me for saying those words back then. I was too mad to see you and Christopher together. Come downstairs. I’m waiting for you here. I need to talk to you about something important.”
