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Megan laughed. “Trust me, he’ll love the end result, and so will you. I better run. Another meeting. I know how Dad feels, always on the go.”
“Bye,” Suzy said.
Megan clicked off, but not before Suzy heard her sensible heels clicking down the hallway.
She bit her lip. It was only eleven. Her classes didn’t start until two. Strolling down the city streets and seeing the sights might be nice. Maybe she’d treat herself to a coffee.
A slick black car pulled up in front of the art gallery. A woman pushed open the car door.
“Thanks, darling,” she said to the driver.
The older woman stepped out into the fresh air. Sunlight danced off the sparkles on her large hat. She dressed like a movie star. Suzy’s breath was taken away by how striking the woman was and poised.
She could never be like her, not in a million years. Daniel would be sorely disappointed if that were what Daniel wanted from her.
The woman paused in front of her. “Hello, are you lost? You look a bit confused.”
“I’m just leaving the art gallery,” Suzy said, shaking her head.
“Aw, you look starstruck. You must be in love with Daniel already.” The woman gave her a dazzling smile and coy wink. “We all are, dear, but don’t get your hopes up; his rule is never to get involved with a client or any artist.”
Her gaze scanned Suzy. “But you might be the exception.” She took off her flashy hat and flipped her hair. “I know I’m certainly not his type. I’d better run. He hates it when anyone is late. He can be so unpleasant at times. I wish he would loosen up. Have some fun. Life is short. Excuse me. Have a fabulous day.”
The older woman stepped into the gallery as if she were royalty and owned the place.
Wow, who was she? A famous artist, probably. Suzy's shoulders slumped. She couldn’t help it. How could she possibly be like the woman? She loved jeans and messy buns. Honestly, she’d never owned a pair of high heels; she’d probably fall in them and break her neck.
Maybe she should get an application at Starbucks. It certainly couldn’t hurt. No, you promised Megan. More important, you promised yourself you would try.
Then, when she failed miserably, she could get an application. Suddenly, the stroll and coffee no longer seemed appealing. She’d take the train to the station and walk to her apartment.
Chapter four
Joann tromped up the narrow stairs to the children’s room.
Suzy waved and set her brush in a jar.
“Oh dear.” Joann studied Suzy’s new piece. “I see you are still feeling down. Didn’t your meeting with Daniel go well?”
Suzy looked at her painting. It was dark and stormy, with wild waves splashing fiercely onto the shoreline. Just how she felt today.
“Well, how did it go?" Joann helped pick up the mess from the children.
Suzy shrugged. “Fine, I guess. I just don’t think I am the type of person to make it as an artist.”
“Fiddle dee.” Joann placed the paint and glue bottles in the correct buckets. “I think Daniel cares too much about impressions, that’s all. You are gifted.”
“According to Daniel, many artists have talent. You have to look the part to be successful.”
Joann sighed. “Just don’t lose who you are, promise me. Stay true to yourself throughout this all.” Joann squeezed hershoulder. “You will always have a home here. As soon as things pick up, I can offer you more classes and money.”
“You’ve been so kind already, thank you.” Suzy took off her apron. “I’d better go. I’m going dress shopping with my sister. Daniel says I can have two pieces in the show next Friday.”
“That’s wonderful.” Joann clapped her hands with glee. “Who is the artist?”
“Vivian Cline.”
“Aww, that shall be interesting and fun. She is an amazing artist.” Joann shook her finger. “But remember, you’re wonderful just the way you are. You don’t need to be Vivian Cline.”
