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Jerking upright onhard at the drea the sleep fro to erase the dream that haunted me My hands were damp with sweat, but I just wiped them on my pants, kicked my feet off the bed and made my way down the hallway to the phone

"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 ed 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"