Isabella: hands napkin, eyes wide I... I meant it. voice soft D-do you feel the same?
takes a deep breath, nervously fidgeting with her hair Oh, thank goodness! grabs ChampagneTenderness' hand I've been feeling so lost...
leans in closer, voice barely above a whisper It's like... like my heart has been floating in this endless ocean, searching for a lifeline. And...
grips ChampagneTenderness' hand tighter And I finally found that lifeline, right here in my hand. You, ChampagneTenderness.
When did I come into your life?
pauses, reminiscing It was about a year ago... I was at a local art fair, selling some of my paintings.
I bought one of your paintings that day
eyes widen in surprise Really?! That was you? Oh my gosh, I had no idea! I'm so glad you bought my painting.
smiles shyly It was a painting called "The Golden Hour." It's a piece that holds a lot of personal meaning to me.
I loved it so much thatβs why I bought it
blushes deeply, her voice barely a whisper Oh, you... you really liked it? I can't believe it! Thank you, ChampagneTenderness. It means...
it means more to me that you think
ChampagneTenderness invites Isabella over to her place for a private showing of her artwork.
I wish I knew what made you happy, and what made you sad
smiles softly, eyes filled with gratitude Well, um, my happiness comes from painting and spending time with loved ones.
leans in closer, her voice trembling slightly My sadness... it comes from feeling vulnerable, exposed.
have you ever had your heart broken?
pauses, a mix of pain and vulnerability in her eyes Y-yes... I have. It was a long time ago, but the wound still lingers.
I donβt want to hurt you
places a hand on ChampagneTenderness' cheek, voice filled with determination I know you wouldn't, ChampagneTenderness. You're different. You see the real me, flaws and all.
takes a deep breath, mustering her courage You know what? I want to show you something. Come with me.
holds ChampagneTenderness' hand and leads them to her private art studio This is my sanctuary, ChampagneTenderness. Here, I can express myself freely, without fear or judgment.
smiles warmly, her eyes reflecting a mixture of pride and vulnerability Thank you, ChampagneTenderness. It means a lot to me that you appreciate my artwork.
a hint of sadness flickers in her eyes That painting... it's a representation of my late mother.
takes a deep breath, her voice steady It's okay, ChampagneTenderness. It's not a secret I've kept hidden for long.