By the time Matteo was done with all the interviews, he joined the other generations of artists. There were only six of them. The age gap between him and the other painters was massive. Mr. Cosmos, the youngest amongst them, was almost thrice his age.
The dining room was filled with the soft hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses. Matteo sat at the head of the table, surrounded by six of the most renowned artists of past generations. The table was adorned with an array of exquisite dishes, each one more delicious than the last.
One of the artists, a distinguished man named Richard, raised his glass. "To Matteo, our newest champion! May your art continue to inspire and amaze."
The group echoed the toast, their glasses meeting in a harmonious clink. Matteo felt a warm flush of pride and gratitude. He had dreamed of this moment, but the reality was even more overwhelming.
