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“Hello?”

“It’s happening”

“What’s happening?”

“You, Elpi, you’re happening, your debut”

Every inch of ht shatter under the pressure “Vin—”

“You’re ready Your work is ready Your collection is a masterpiece and must be shared with the world”

“Vin… I appreciate everything you’re trying to do for me, but—”

“No buts It’s all arranged It’s been worked out I’ve made this happen for you You need this, Elpi”

I worked hard to cool down; hot blood coursed through , deep breath

“You’re ready,” Vin pushed, his voice this time less business, less coercive, and more supportive

But I didn’t want it None of it

“Where’s the damn exhibition?” I snapped

“Elpi Don’t be this way You’re an artist—”

“I’ritted teeth

“You’re an artist!” Vin commanded “You're the best damn sculptor I’ve ever worked with Your work surpasses anything I’ve ever seen, including my oork You’re someone, Elpi Believe me, you are someone”

“Vin—”

“It’ll be in a s It’s your first exhibit, and it shouldn’t overwhelm you”

“Where, Vin?” I asked, exasperated, and ranhair

“Seattle”

The air sucked out of s about Seattle—the art scene, the people, the culture…

“Elpi, I know you’ll probably argue about the show being in Seattle, but—”

“I’m in” I interrupted sharply, and wasreceiver

“You’re in?”

“I’m in”

“No arguto do with the art world and the people in it?”