Miranda glared at Alec, but he didn't back down. "Evelyn has worked tirelessly to reach this point, and she truly deserves to be here. If you can't offer your support, please refrain from degrading or demotivating her. At the very least, respect her and her choices. Consider how far she has come without your support. And if you don't want the media to capture this moment, please stop creating a scene."
Miranda huffed and turned away, clearly displeased. I felt a wave of relief wash over me as Alec's support bolstered my confidence. I smiled at him gratefully. "Sorry for her behavior and Thank you, Alec."
He smiled back, his eyes warm. "Anytime, Evelyn. Don't be sorry, our friendship is stronger than your mother's false interpretations. Now, let's focus on your amazing work and make this showcase a success."
He distracted my mind from Kai and our relationships, and we started talking about the paintings, his enthusiasm a welcome distraction from the tension with my mom.
As people gathered around, Margaret began to speak. "Thank you all for coming. Today, we are showcasing a series of paintings that delve into the dark history of Witherstones Manor and the terror that lurks in Ravenwood. I am deeply sorry for all the lost souls, and these artworks are a tribute to those unsolved murders. Evelyn, the artist behind these powerful pieces, has poured her heart into highlighting these serious issues through her work."
Margaret then turned to you with a warm smile. "Now, I'd like to introduce Evelyn, the talented artist who created these paintings. Evelyn, please take the lead and share your thoughts and inspirations with us."
As you stepped forward, Alec joined Margaret, giving you an encouraging nod.
Taking the mic with a grateful smile, I begin, "Thank you, Margaret. Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Evelyn. Before I delve into my art, I want to introduce you to my secretary and my best friend, Margaret. Her support has been invaluable throughout this journey."
You gesture towards Margaret, who gives a warm nod. "Margaret has already shared the intention behind these paintings, which are a tribute to the lost souls of Witherstones Manor and the unsolved murders in Ravenwood. My art style is deeply influenced by these dark histories, blending realism with surreal elements to evoke the emotions and stories of those affected."
I continue, "Each piece is crafted to not only tell a story but also to provoke thought and empathy. I hope my work can bring attention to these serious issues and inspire a sense of justice and remembrance."
With a deep breath, I add, "Now, let's explore these paintings together, and I'll share the inspirations and stories behind each one. Thank you for being here and for your support."
As I finish my introduction, I notice the jury members catching my attention. They start to approach me, clearly intrigued by my work. One of them speaks up, "Evelyn, your paintings are truly captivating. Could you please continue by telling us more about each artwork?"
I smile and nod, feeling a surge of confidence. "Of course, I'd be happy to."
I lead the group to the first painting, a haunting depiction of Witherstones Manor shrouded in mist.
"This piece is called 'Echoes of the Past.' It captures the eerie atmosphere of the manor, where many of the unsolved murders took place. The mist symbolizes the lingering mysteries and the souls that still wander these grounds."
Moving to the next painting, I explain, "This one is titled 'Whispers in the Dark.' It portrays the shadows and whispers that haunt Ravenwood. The surreal elements represent the fear and uncertainty that the victims must have felt."
As I continue to guide the jury through my artwork, I share the stories and inspirations behind each piece. "This painting, 'Silent Screams,' is a tribute to the victims whose voices were never heard. The vibrant colors contrast with the dark subject matter, symbolizing the hope for justice and remembrance."
The jury members listen intently, clearly moved by my passion and dedication. One of them comments, "Your work is not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful. It's clear that you've put your heart and soul into these paintings."
I forced a smile, even my gut twisted, something was definitely wrong. It felt as though unseen eyes were watching my every move, a chill creeping down my spine.