Leslie had been trying to get the incident with Daniel three days ago out of her mind, but it wasn't working. She couldn't come up with any new ideas, and her art exhibit in Arthur's gallery was drawing closer. Now seated on a small stool by the beautiful lake at the back of Blackwood Manor, the huge red oak tree providing shade from the afternoon sun, Leslie sighed in frustration.
Betty had visited her a few days ago, seething at Daniel and being as overprotective as ever. Leslie remembered Betty’s words: *"Don’t let his obsession run your emotions. Take a hold of them and free yourself from this anxiety, okay?"* she had said, kissing the top of Leslie's head.
"And here I am, still struggling to paint. Betty would be so disappointed in me," Leslie thought, her heart heavy. She dumped her tools on the ground and crossed her arms, pouting.
*What am I going to do now? That fucker has messed with my mind. Even this beautiful lake isn't giving me any inspiration.*
"Feeling bored?”, she
