Chapter 609

Leonardo and Lucien Dupont, the gallery director, stepped out of the meeting room. Lucien, dressed in a black suit with a fedora and carrying a black cane, was introduced to Madelyn by Leonardo. Taking Madelyn’s hand, Luclen gently kissed the back of it. “Dear Ms. Jent, “he said with a bit of an accent, “Prof. Monet always praises your artistic skills. Here’s my card, Let me know if you ever want to open a studio and need funding.”

Madelyn glanced at Prof. Monet. When she saw him nod, she accepted the card and smiled. “You’re too kind, Mr. Dupont. I don’t think I’m that talented, I just work harder than most.”

Lucien chuckled, “You’re being modest. I’ve seen your artwork. It’s really great.”

Madelyn replied, “Thank you.”

After Prot. Monet handed the event’s responsibility to Madelyn, Leonardo left for another Interview.

Once they were gone, Madelyn took a moment to sigh with relief. Noticing the gallery was not too crowded, she explored the second floor of the art exhibition, showcasing Western–style artworks by Jane, Clement, and Dorian, Madelyn’s award–winning painting was displayed on the first floor, but she preferred the quieter atmosphere of the second floor. As she climbed the staircase with three cups of coffee in hand for Clernent, Dorian, and Jane, she overheard a bit of their conversation.

Dorian said, “It’s quiet up here; it seems that no one’s coming. Madelyn’s got the crowd downstairs covered; she’s always been a standout. Sometimes, I feel Prof. Monet doesn’t value us as much. How about we head back to the hotel and play some video games?” “Do you have any conscience, Dorian?”

Clement asked sharply. “What if Madelyn had heard you? It would hurt her. Prof. Monet spent four years and faced many dangers to assemble this international art exhibition. Madelyn was always by his side, supporting him without complaint. Remember the desert? She saved you from quicksand. While we hesitated during that storm in the Cobalt Ocean, she fearlessly retrieved Prof. Monet’s painting from the rough waters. It’s her bravery that earned her the position as Prof. Monet’s apprentice. Without her, our journey might have taken another three years. After the exhibition, we’ll return to Ventropolis to graduate.”

For decades, Leonardo dominated the world of realistic art, capturing breathtaking locales from across the globe. Clement recalled their shared adventures over the past four years, venturing to remote and untouched places. Whether navigating treacherous waters or traversing vast deserts in search of hidden oases, they laced countless challenges. Amid these adventures, Madelyn was enchanted by a world she had only ever imagined. These experiences broadened her horizons and gave her a newfound appreciation for freedom and adventure. Reflecting on these moments, she recognized her tremendous growth.

After a moment of quiet, Dorian quipped, “You sure bring up Madelyn quite a bit. Feeling a bit fond of her?”