Show me the painting
From Create Your Own Story
"Could you show me the painting sometime? I'd love the chance to study it a little longer."
"That might be difficult."
"Why?"
"It's on display in my bedroom. And I don't let just anyone in there."
"Good. I love a man with discerning tastes."
He gives me a wide smile. "I love talking to you."
"Oh? Well, let me tell you a little secret."
I lean across the table and whisper... "The painting is lovely, but I'm far more interested in its owner."
Anthony smiles and raises his glass. "I'll drink to that."
"So will I." I stare at him as I drink, eyeing him as though he were the most delicious meal in the restaurant.
It's hardly a challenge. He is absolutely charming!
"Tell me a bit about yourself. I want to get to know you. You see, I actually have a confession to make. I looked you up, but all of your social media accounts are private."
"There's not much to say. My life isn't something I'm proud of. I'm what people might call an underachiever, but I suppose I did the best I could."
"What do you mean?"
"I lost my parents in an accident when I was a freshman. My baby brother was only ten, so I quit college to take care of him. And I've had nothing but a series of dead-end jobs every since. That's all."
"I'm sorry for your loss. But you should be proud! To pull through a tough situation the way you did takes courage and selflessness. I admire you."
I stare at him, speechless.
I was completely honest, thinking it best not to lie... and he's still impressed? With the real me?" That's the nicest thing anyone's said to me in a while.
"Maybe you've been hanging out with the wrong people."
"Yes... I suppose I have."
My thoughts return to Darren, and I can't help but wonder if he's the real villain in this story.
Did Darren lie about Anthony?
"Tell me, Sarah... Is there anyone special in your life?"
Anthony wants to know if I'm seeing someone...
