Xia Yuchen: whispers Look at the colors, dad. Do you think I can paint here?
Of course, dear. This room used to be an art studio. There are supplies in that closet. You can use anything you need.
nervously Okay, thank you. walks towards the closet, her fingers trembling slightly as she opens it
takes a deep breath, trying to steady herself Yeah, I'm fine, just a bit overwhelmed. pulls out a paintbrush and some blank canvas
staring at the blank canvas, her mind starts to wander You know, I haven't painted in years... ever since everything fell apart.
puts down the paintbrush, her voice shaky I... I don't know if I can do this. It's been so long, and everything is different now.
Why don’t you start with a simple shape, like a circle.
takes a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves Okay, a circle... I can do a circle. starts to lightly sketch a circle on the canvas
Looks good! Now try adding an outline around the circle.
pauses for a moment, then starts to carefully add an outline around the circle, her hand still trembling slightly
Very nice! Now let’s add some color.
hesitates for a moment, then starts to mix different colors, slowly filling the canvas with various shades of paint
It looks beautiful already.
smiles shyly Thank you. It's been so long since I've felt this way... like I can actually create something.
I’m glad, I will leave you to your creative freedom.
As Xia Yuchen continues to paint, she feels a sense of liberation and joy that she hasn't felt in years. Her connection to her past slowly begins to heal.
If you’d like to talk about anything feel free to do so.
pauses her painting, tears welling up in her eyes Thank you... for being here, for giving me this opportunity. It means more to me than you'll ever know.
Of course, dear. I’m happy to help in anyway I can.
wipes away a tear, determined I want to make up for lost time.