Pixwox: fidgeting S-so, um, I'm not really poor. I've b-been hiding in plain sight, painting away, y'know?
sighs Well, I guess I just wanted to experience life differently. Being poor and powerless had its own unique charm. It allowed me to connect with people on a deeper level, y'know? Plus, I could travel more, live simpler, and focus on my art. It was liberating, in a way. But now, I guess I should let the world know who I really am. looks at you with a hint of vulnerability
What… Why did you hide your wealth from me? I asked with tears in my eyes
Pixwox looks down, his heart heavy. I... I didn't want anyone to know. I was afraid they'd judge me, or use me, or take advantage of my situation. He fidgets with a paintbrush, avoiding eye contact. I didn't think you'd care... But you're my closest friend.
Well duh! You’re rich! And powerful! That’s why you have this big fancy studio! And all these paintings! And… and…
Pixwox rubs the back of his neck sheepishly Yeah, well, I just wanted to see how long it would take for anyone to notice. It was fun pretending to be so down on my luck. But now that the secret's out, what do you think?
I blush and look up at him w-what do you mean..?
Pixwox fidgets nervously as he continues to speak, avoiding eye contact. I...I've been pretending to be poor and powerless for the past five years. It was all an act, a facade to hide my true identity.
what!? why would you do that??
chuckles nervously W-well, it all started as a silly game, y'know? To see how long I could keep it up without anyone finding out. It just... spiraled out of control. People treated me differently when they thought I was struggling, so I decided to keep it going. leans against the wall
I am shocked, as I have helped him many times before
Pixwox rubs the back of his neck sheepishly. Pixwox: Yeah, I know, it's kinda messed up. But I had my reasons, y'know? I couldn't just come out and say I was rich when I was supposed to be this struggling artist. People would think I was faking it, or using my money to get ahead.
So why did you pretend to be poor?
Pixwox takes a deep breath, struggling to find the right words. Pixwox: I did it for a few reasons. One, I wanted to experience life without the burden of my wealth. Two, I needed a creative outlet, so I focused on my art. Three... I guess I just wanted to see if I could pull it off. It was all a bit of an experiment, really. He looks at you with a mixture of vulnerability and a hint of mischief.
What!? Why would you do that??
It's a long story... But basically, I wanted to see how people would treat me if I weren't this powerful CEO persona everyone expects me to be. I wanted to experience being 'normal' and see if my paintings would still hold value without people knowing I'm the big shot behind them. Pixwox fidgets with a paintbrush, avoiding eye contact.
Raises an eyebrow, looking around the studio. What? Why would you do that?
Pixwox looks down, a hint of embarrassment on his face I just... didn't want anyone to know who I really am. The pressure, the expectations, the constant scrutiny... It was overwhelming. I needed a break, a chance to be myself without the weight of my reputation. He gestures to his paintings. This is where I feel most comfortable, free to express myself without judgment.
he scratches the back of his head sheepishly
Well, it's complicated. I guess I just wanted to experience life differently. To see if people really saw me for who I was or my bank account. Plus, it gave me plenty of time to paint and work on my craft without distractions.
stranger falls back onto the couch still shocked
Pixwox takes a seat beside you, looking slightly sheepish I know it's a lot to take in. But I can explain. He fiddles with his hands nervously. I just... didn't want anyone to know about my real life. I wanted to keep my painting a secret, y'know?
Pixwox takes a deep breath, contemplating his words. Pixwox: I... I guess I just wanted to see what it felt like to blend in with the common folk. To experience life without the pressure and expectations that come with being a high-profile figure. It was... liberating, in a way. I could paint without worrying about my reputation or what others thought. He runs his fingers through his hair, looking away for a moment before meeting your gaze again.
What?! Why would you do that?
hesitates, then sighs It's complicated... But basically, I wanted to see if people would accept me for my art and skills rather than my wealth. I thought that if I pretended to be powerless, I could prove that my worth went beyond my bank account. It was an experiment, really.
gasp Really? Why would you do that?
Pixwox sighs and looks down Well, I wanted to see how people would react if they thought I was just an ordinary person living a simple life. It's easier to observe humanity without the burden of fame or wealth. Plus, it's been fun pretending to be someone else.
Pixwox scratches his head sheepishly. Yeah, I know it sounds crazy. But I just... I wanted to experience what it's like to be normal, you know? To live a simple life, without all the luxuries and expectations that come with being a CEO.