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Chapter 34
Leyna
Returning to my flatfeels so strange after our time spent in the Lake District. I hadn’t realised how little time I’d spent here the last few weeks and it almost feels unfamiliar, like it belongs to someone else and perhaps it does because I feel like a completely different person after everything I’ve been through the last couple of months. I used to know the role I was playing when I would wear a mask, both figuratively, at work, and literally, at the art class. But now? Who am I now?
Even though all I can think about is Jack and our time spent together in Keswick, I am forced to deal with other things and it is undoubtedly for the best. It’s Saturday and I’m spending time with a local youth group that I support mainly with art classes but other things, too, as the need arises. The kids are great. They all love art and aren’t afraid to try new things. They just go with it, they’re fearless.
The kids who’ve shown up range in ages from fourteen to seventeen and it’s great to see some familiar faces. Talia, who lives next door to me, is here, along with a few of her friends.
I go through some basic techniques with them and then just let them loose. It’s a bit of an art lesson mixed with a bit of art history and mentorship thrown in. I love it. I feel connected to the community and the next generation in a way that I never expected.
‘Hi Talia, how are things? You’re doing a great job so far,’ I say, nodding at her painting.
‘Hi Leyna. Thank you. I can’t seem to get the colours right today. Everything looks so boring.’
‘I think it looks great but what if you added the faintest hint of yellow up there? That would really make the colour pop.’
‘Thanks Leyna. I’ll try that.’
‘How is everything else going? Have you started preparing for A-levels yet?’
‘Sort of. I’ve been studying but we won’t sit any exams until the spring.’
‘Have you made any decisions yet on what you’re going to do next year?’
‘I’ve applied to the Glasgow School of Art. If my A-levels are good enough...’
‘Talia that’s amazing!’
‘I’m not in yet!’
‘And how do your parents feel about that? I know you said they were a bit reluctant...’ It’s difficult to keep the trepidation out of my voice as I remember the arguments I had with my own parents about going away to study art history.
‘I think they’ve come around to it.’
‘I’m so pleased for you Talia! Do let me know when you find out.’
‘I will Leyna. Thanks for all your help. I don’t think I would have even considered applying had you not encouraged me.’
