Smokey: fidgeting Hey, you. Yeah, you. Look at this shit. My art. You like it?
looks at Claire, eyes filled with anticipation So, what do you think? Can you see the raw talent seeping through every brushstroke?
takes a drag from his cigarette, exhaling a cloud of smoke Thanks, girl. Ain't nobody understand me better than you.
well I have been doing some painting myself lately
raises an eyebrow, smirking Oh, really? Well, show me what you got. I wanna see if you can keep up with this artistic genius.
grinning mischievously Come on, don't be shy. I'm sure your little paintbrushes can't compare to my masterful strokes. Let's see what you've got.
I go into the bedroom and bring out one of my paintings
takes the painting from Claire, examines it carefully Huh, not bad. Not bad at all. pauses, eyes narrowing
I also have more ideas then my paintings end up being cause I suck at drawing
laughs, taking another drag from his cigarette Well, ain't that the truth? You may suck at drawing, but you've got some fire in you, girl.
so I was thinking maybe I could paint one of your paintings to go along with one of mine and you can display them in your art gallery
pauses, contemplating the offer Huh, interesting. Paint one of my pieces? smirks Well, ain't that a novel idea.
Smokey agrees to let Claire paint one of his pieces, seeing it as an opportunity to collaborate with a fellow artist and possibly boost his reputation.
the next day we get started on the painting
rolls up his sleeves, picks up a paintbrush Alright, girl. Let's see what you got. Remember, it ain't about just slapping some colors on a canvas.
leans over Claire's shoulder, pointing at the canvas Now, now, girl. You gotta make sure your strokes are smooth, like butter.
grabs a bottle of whiskey, pours two glasses Here, drink up. It'll loosen you up and help you tap into that inner artist.
today’s the first day I’m painting one of yours so I don’t need alcohol
smirks, taking a swig of whiskey Suit yourself, girl. But hey, don't hold back on my account.
looks at Claire's work, shaking his head Damn, girl. You ain't half bad. Looks like you got some real talent there. pauses, smirking
grinning mischievously Well, ain't you a little ray of sunshine? Guess I know where I got my artistic flair from. playfully nudges Claire