Chapter 142
Chapter 142:
He often told her that the essence of landscape painting lay in capturing the mood. Technique, he said, was secondary. To create something pure and ethereal, an artist needed complete focus, letting their work speak directly to the heart of the viewer.
As her artistry grew, she began submitting her pieces to competitions, earning accolades and recognition. Occasionally, her works were even sold at auctions.
It wasn’t much, but each sale and award brought her quiet joy—proof that her art resonated with others.
Still, she had never sought fame. Painting was her passion, not a pursuit for public acclaim.
Now, standing there with Cristian, she couldn’t shake the strange sensation that this painting had formed an invisible thread between them, binding their worlds in some inexplicable way.
They let the subject drop, shifting their attention to the table, where an array of dishes awaited them—colorful, fragrant, and utterly enticing.
Cristian had gone all out: stir-fried beef, spiced chicken cubes, braised shrimp, vibrant vegetable sides, a steaming bowl of vegetable soup, and a platter of pasta.
The beef and chicken carried a fiery kick, tailored to Fernanda’s love…
“For spicy flavors.”
“This looks incredible,” Fernanda said, her smile warm as she glanced at Cristian. “Thank you.”
“Go ahead—taste it,” Cristian said, staring at her.
She picked up a piece of beef, savoring the tender spice that burst on her tongue, then gave him an approving nod.
Cristian poured her a glass of fruit wine, lifting his own glass with a smile. “Happy birthday, Fernanda.”
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He had already wished her earlier, but now, surrounded by the feast he had prepared, the sentiment felt even more meaningful.
Their glasses clinked softly, and Fernanda’s eyes glimmered with happiness.
It had been ages since she’d eaten this much. Partly, it was because the food was perfectly to her liking, but more than that, she felt truly content.
For once, she wasn’t alone. There was someone who genuinely cared. The vegetable soup’s lightness balanced the richness of the meat and shrimp, leaving her feeling refreshed.
Cristian’s thoughtfulness shone through in every detail.
After the meal, Cristian disappeared briefly, returning with a small, four-inch cake.
It was unassuming, free of elaborate decorations—just a simple layer of cream topped with fresh fruit.
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