He Gave Her My Eyes A Story of Final Sight novel Chapter 60

"Three years ago, after your art soared to fame, you disappeared from the public eye. What made you vanish for so long?"

Theresia had always been stunning in a way that was almost dangerous, her beauty as sharp as a blade. Marriage had softened her edge for a while, but now that fierceness was shining through again.

Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she glanced over at Patti. Behind her veil, a sly smile curled on her lips. "Honestly, Patti and I barely know each other," she said in a low, breezy voice. "Three months ago, my mentor turned her down as a student. I happened to be back in the country for some business, heard she was holding her own art show, so I figured I'd swing by and see what the fuss was about. Maybe give her a little feedback on what she’s lacking. There’s always more to learn, right? Maybe in her next life, she’ll be lucky enough to be my classmate."

There was no mistaking it. Anyone could tell Theresia wasn't here to support Patti. She was here to stir things up.

The reporters looked at each other, unsure what to say.

Meanwhile, Patti had walked over, trying to keep her composure.

Theresia’s smile grew, but her eyes were cold—chilling, actually. "Patti, fancy seeing you here. I’m surprised. You just got rejected by Vermilion Gallery a few days ago, and now you're back in the country with your own show? Is the art world around here really that easy to get into now?"

Whispers started rippling through the crowd. So Patti had been turned away by Moses, and by Vermilion Gallery too? No one had heard about that before. Still, when they thought about it, Patti might have some talent, but aiming that high was maybe a bit out of her league.

Patti’s face went pale under all the judgmental stares. She glared at Theresia, her voice tight with anger. "Teresa, are you seriously here just to embarrass me?"

Theresia looked almost pleased. She stepped closer, her long fingers resting lightly on Patti’s shoulder, her gaze daring. "I told you, I’m just here to offer some guidance. No need to thank me, Patti."

The crowd exchanged glances, confused. Was Teresa actually complimenting Patti now? Wasn’t she supposed to be tearing her down?

This was Patti’s favorite piece. She knew it would get attention as soon as it was shown. A cold, satisfied smile flickered across her face as she stared Theresia down. "You’re not the only one who works hard, Teresa. I’m just as good as anyone else."

For a moment, Patti felt triumphant. Finally, she’d managed to turn the tables. So what if Teresa was a genius? She wasn’t about to be shamed in front of everyone. Not today.

Suddenly, a voice rang out, echoing through the gallery. "You’re lying. These paintings aren’t yours at all."