LOGIN“Okay.” I said and shifted to the side.“I'm Marilyn and I must say that your artwork really intrigued me. I'm actually working with a team and I'd love you to join us onboard. There was just something really unique about your craft and the story behind it was simply amazing.”I smiled. I wanted to squeal at the moment but I held myself. I couldn't believe one of the judges had noticed my work even if I didn't win.“So, what do you say, Ruby?”“Marilyn, I'm excited to join your team. I'd love to know more details about it and how I can join.”Marilyn smiled. “I'd give you my email and I’d take yours too. Hopefully we'll schedule something and meet later.”We exchanged emails and also exchanged phone numbers. I watched her leave before getting into the car. Once I got into the car, I smiled broadly. I was excited that even though I wasn't among the winners, I was still recognized for my work. It meant my efforts weren't wasted after all.I sat in the passenger seat as the driver drove.
I was with my phone when I received the mail. The subject of the email said—Artist’s connects, Annual exhibit.“Dear Artists, we want to remind you that the annual artist connect competition is coming up in two days time. We would love to see you submit your entry there.”I read the email more than once and more than twice. I set my phone aside. Two days? I headed upstairs and reached for my drawer where I had kept the flyer that Andrew had given me. The date on the flyer actually corresponded to the one on the email.I took a deep breath and walked to my room where I had kept my mixed media painting. It was still there. That was what I planned to use as an entry. I smiled. I was sure my artwork would get me somewhere.TWO DAYS LATER: THE ARTISTS CONNECT EVENTIt was a Friday. Andrew was the first person to call me that morning. He had sounded excited over the phone and he reminded me of the artist's event that was to be held.He said he was preparing his artwork. No matter how hard I
Ruby's POV I headed to the kitchen. My chest was still heavy from what I had seen in Malcolm's phone. I tried to make excuses for him in my head, but none of them made sense. The truth was right there in front of me and I couldn't keep pretending like I didn't know that.My mind drifted back to the picture I had seen online of him with another woman that I had researched and found out her name to be Melanie Foxx. The media had labelled them as a couple with the picture where they stood together by the side.I had called him concerning the picture that time and he had simply said that it was the media and paparazzi who were looking for news. I didn't think too much about it that time. I had believed it.I didn't know yet if the woman he bought a ring to propose to was Melanie Foxx. I made a cup of coffee for myself and sat on the couch.I brought out my phone and went to the old newsletter that I had seen him and Melanie Foxx together. They stood close to each other and his hand was r
The sex ended and it was good. Ruby was on the bed, shivering slightly from the effect. It was an euphoric feeling that she couldn't quite describe. Malcolm brought her closer to him and allowed her to relax in his arms.He kissed her softly on the cheeks. Ruby faced him. “Did you really mean what you said? You don't find my body offensive?”“Why would I do that? You have a gorgeous body that any man who has you is lucky. You have those curves that only some girls can dream to have.”“What about the little fat on my belly?”Malcolm frowned. “Isn't that a normal thing? Ruby, you shouldn't be concerned about all these sorts of things. Believe me when I say that you're perfect.”Ruby smiled and nestled in Malcolm's arms on his chest. He ran his hand gently and slowly through her silky hair. He didn't say anything and she didn't say anything either. She was thinking of how good it had felt. She was also thinking about her new identity as a hybrid werewolf witch.It felt so comfortable in
Ruby was discharged that night. She was given a list of medications that will help to keep her stable and sound. She got them from the hospital and walked outside with Malcolm supporting her even though she didn't really need support while walking.Malcolm drove the car, while she sat adjacent to him in the front seat.“I didn't know it was that bad.” Malcolm said as he lowered the volume of his music. “The relationship with your mum. I didn't know it was so bad.”Ruby forced an awkward smile. “It's nothing. I've finally made peace with the fact that she hates me.”“You're special. You shouldn't let anyone make you feel otherwise.”The drive home was quiet and music played from the car stereo. It was soft music that soothed Ruby's mind. She leaned her back against the chair and listened. She wasn't aware when she fell asleep.Malcolm continued driving and reduced the volume of the music playing as he didn't want to disturb her. He was sure that she was exhausted from the stay at the h
Ruby was awake. The nurse called Malcolm to tell him about it. He entered the room. She was still acting drowsy and confused. Malcolm stood by the side while the nurse adjusted the oxygen mask.Ruby placed her left palm on her forehead.“Malcolm,” she called out in a weak voice.The nurse cleared from the path, giving him space and a go ahead that he could go closer to her. He bent and held her hand.“Ruby, I'm so happy you're awake.”His hand felt warm. Ruby looked around the room like she was just realizing that she was in a hospital.“What happened? I don't feel so good.”“You fainted.” Malcolm said as he lowered his voice. “I was worried sick for you to wake up.”Ruby adjusted herself on the bed and sat upright. She still had a feeling in her head like she was spinning while she was seated in one place. She held Malcolm's hand.“Andrew came, your colleague from work. He said I should let him know when you're awake. Will you like to speak to him now?”Ruby shook her head. “Later.”
The doctor and several nurses rushed in. He took his stethoscope off his chest and placed it on the woman's chest, while using the other hand to adjust something on her support device.“Mum! Mum! Please hold on mum.” June screamed and tapped her mother.I stood at the side as Malcolm paced restless
I felt like I wasn't in control of my body when I pressed my head on his shoulder. Before I could get off, his hand had already settled on my waist and he drew me closer to him.“It's going to be fine. I also have a relative who's in the hospital.”I nodded slowly and sniffed and a tear drop escape
Ruby's POVI didn't need anyone to tell me how the rest of my day would go. Waking up in Malcolm's bed was embarrassing enough. I had questions at the back of my mind, but I couldn't ask him.How did he even carry me to the room, and where did he sleep? Surely, he didn't sleep on the same bed as me
A yawn was the first thing that escaped my mouth. I opened my eyes partially and stretched my arms before closing my eyes.My forehead throbbed intensely and I took my palm to touch it. It burned like I was seated near a furnace.When the veil of sleepiness cleared from my eyes, I raised my head a







