Chapter 201: The Portrait
The young man closed the door to his small studio and turned around, a bright, wide smile playing upon his full lips. He walked up to Melania who, too, was looking at him with a genuine smile of happiness on her youthful face.
"Second buyer! Your Highness, this is already the second gallery that agreed to buy my paintings!"
The princess nodded and clasped her hands together; the artist’s success made her feel fulfilled just as much.
"The art season is about to start so it is only natural that every respectful gallery is looking for fresh talent and valuable pieces to showcase. Imagine how many noblemen will come to see the exhibitions. Imagine how much money they will pay! You’ll see, you will be able to pay off your debt and go back to Lafad in no time! Are you happy?"
Seeing Melania’s shining face made Hayim feel rather awkward.
"Yes, I am, Your Highness."
The young woman tilted her head to the side and carefully observed Hayim’s face; there was no way he could fool her like that.
"What is it, Hayim? Come on, tell me what is bothering you."
The artist hesitated, shifting awkwardly on his feet, but then released a long, defeated exhale, and finally confessed,