Chapter 3: The Art of Misunderstanding
A few days later, Aroma found herself standing outside Lucas's studio, a bundle of freshly baked pastries in hand. After their serendipitous encounters, Lucas had invited her to see his work, and she couldn't suppress her curiosity any longer.
She knocked lightly on the door, and it swung open almost immediately. Lucas stood there, his hands smudged with paint, a look of delighted surprise on his face.
"Aroma! You made it," he said, stepping aside to let her in.
The studio was a chaotic wonderland of canvases, sketches, and sculptures. Every surface was covered with artistic projects in various stages of completion, and the air smelled of paint and creativity.
"I brought some pastries," Aroma said, holding up the bundle. "Thought you might need a break."
"You're a lifesaver," Lucas said, accepting the pastries gratefully. "Come in, make yourself at home."
As Aroma wandered around, admiring the artwork, Lucas set out the pastries and made some coffee. He watched her from the corner of his eye, enjoying the way she seemed to be in awe of his creations.
"These are amazing, Lucas," Aroma said, stopping in front of a large canvas depicting a vibrant Parisian street scene. "You've captured the city's spirit perfectly."
"Thank you," Lucas said, joining her. "Painting is how I connect with the world. Every piece tells a story."
Aroma turned to him, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "I wish I had your talent. The way you see things... it's beautiful."
Lucas smiled, reaching out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "You have your own way of seeing the world, Aroma. It's one of the things I like about you."
Before Aroma could respond, the door to the studio burst open, and a striking woman with long dark hair and an air of sophistication swept in. She looked between Aroma and Lucas, her expression unreadable.
"Lucas, darling, there you are," she said, her voice smooth as silk. "I've been looking everywhere for you."
Lucas's demeanor shifted instantly. He stepped back, his hand dropping to his side. "Isabella, what are you doing here?"
Isabella sauntered over, casting a curious glance at Aroma. "I had to see you, of course. We need to discuss the gallery opening."
Aroma felt a pang of insecurity, suddenly feeling out of place. She took a step back, unsure of what to do.
"I didn't realize you had company," Isabella said, her gaze lingering on Aroma. "And who might this be?"
"This is Aroma," Lucas said, his voice neutral. "She's a friend."
Aroma forced a smile, feeling the tension in the room. "I should go. I didn't mean to intrude."
"Nonsense," Lucas said quickly, but Isabella's presence had already cast a shadow over the moment.
"I'll see you later, Lucas," Aroma said, her voice barely above a whisper.
As she left the studio, her heart heavy with confusion and doubt, she couldn't shake the feeling that she had stumbled into more than she bargained for. The path to love, it seemed, was as unpredictable and clumsy as she was.