Lisa's POV The gallery was quiet that afternoon. Most of the morning crowd had already left, and the only sounds were soft music playing in the background.I was bent over a table, carefully arranging a series of prints for a new display, when I heard Max’s voice behind me.“You have an eye for this,” he said.I looked up, and he was leaning against the doorway, his camera slung over one shoulder. He had an easy smile. We hadn't run into each other much because he had traveled for a shoot somewhere abroad.“Thanks,” I said, smiling back at him.“I mean it,” he said. “You arrange these pieces like you’re telling a story. Most people just throw things together, but you make them… connect.”I could feel his eyes on me as I continued. “It’s just something I’ve always liked doing,” I said.Max walked over, stopping beside me. “I was wondering if we could talk sometime. Maybe over coffee.”I glanced at him, unsure if he was serious. “You’re asking me out in the middle of the gallery?”He l
Lisa's POV I had been staying at the hotel for three nights when Riley called.Since I met her at the gallery on my first day there, she has been so easy to talk to, friendly in a way that didn’t feel forced. Since then, we’d chatted a few times during breaks, and she had even taken me out for lunch once.Her voice on the phone was light. “Are you still staying at that hotel?”“Yeah,” I said. I was sitting on the edge of the bed, my suitcase open on the floor. “Why?”“I want to come over.”It wasn't my apartment, so I didn't know how to feel about having someone come by. I only thought about staying there until I found a place I really liked. But I didn't realise how expensive getting a place was and considering I have to feed myself and other expenses. Living alone was harder than I expected. I gave her the address and informed the receptionist that I was expecting someone.The knock came just as I was putting my things in order. I hugged her and invited her in, she smiled excited
Lisa's POV I stood outside the glass doors of Mara’s gallery with my umbrella dripping water on the pavement. The sign above the door read Greenwich Gallery in elegant gold letters.The rain had slowed to a drizzle, but the air was still very cold. My hands were sweating. I took a deep breath and looked inside. Through the glass, I could see people moving around inside, talking, admiring, and taking pictures of the artwork on display. My stomach twisted. The place was bright and clean, full of color, the kind of space that made you want to stay.I had told myself that I was ready. Ready to start fresh. Ready to work. Ready to stop thinking about Andre.But the moment my hand touched the door handle, doubt hit me. What if I wasn’t good enough? What if they laughed at my work?I had my small portfolio in my bag. My fingers tightened around the strap.The truth was, I hadn’t even planned to come here today. I was supposed to rest, maybe call Dr Camille again, maybe figure out a l
((Andre's POV)I showed up drunk to work, looking like someone who had a miserable life..The whiskey burned in my veins, blurring the edges of my vision. My driver gave me a long look when we pulled up to the office building, but said nothing. Smart man. My assistant, Claire, met me at the elevator. Her nose wrinkled when she smelled me. She had been with me for years and sometimes treated me like I was her son. "Mr. Andre—" she said."I'm fine," I slurred, pushing past her. She followed me into my office, closing the door behind us. "You can't be here like this." I dropped into my chair, laughing. "Why not? It's my company." Claire pressed her lips together. Then she picked up my phone. "I'm canceling your meetings." "Whatever." I reached for the bottle in my desk drawer. She snatched it away. "No." I should have fired her right then. Instead, I just stared at the painting on my wall, the one Lisa had made for me. Claire sighed. "I'll handle everything today. Just..
Andre's POV (Present Day)It didn’t even feel real.I kept staring at the closet. The empty shelves. The clean floor.She was really gone.I pulled out my phone and called her.No answer.Each time, the phone rang until her voicemail picked up. I didn't leave a message. What would I even say? I texted. Please talk to me. Nothing. I typed another message.Lisa, please pick up. I just want to talk.Sent.I sat on the edge of Lisa’s empty bed till midnight, holding the wrinkled note in my hand. The one with her silly dreams. The things she wanted to do again.Where are you? At least let me know you’re safe. I texted.I waited a few seconds and hit send again.Still nothing.I dropped the phone on the bed and stood. My chest felt heavy. I couldn’t stay here. I needed to move. To do something. Find her.I stormed out of the room and headed down the stairs. My steps were quick and angry. I didn’t know which feeling was stronger.Diane sat in the living room like she was hosting a te
Andre’s POV Present DayI sat in the dining room, checking the time for the third time.The clock on the wall was ticking so loudly. I’d already finished my coffee, and my car keys were on the table.The car was ready. My briefcase sat by the door. I checked my watch again. She was never late to see me off. Lisa was usually down by now.Ever since we had started… whatever this thing between us was, she always came down to see me off. Even when we weren’t speaking much, she was still there. But this morning, nothing.I pulled out my phone and sent her a message.Where are you?I stared at the screen, waiting for the typing bubble to appear. Nothing.Stanley appeared in the hallway. "Sir, the driver is waiting." I nodded. "Give me one more minute." I typed again. Lisa? Then deleted it.Maybe she was still angry. I wouldn’t blame her. I didn’t handle things well yesterday.That stupid fall.I rubbed my forehead and leaned back. I never even asked Lisa if she really pushed her. I