Chapter 27 - The Gallery Opening
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Nora’s sister, an aspiring artist, was hosting her first gallery showing in a small, industrial space downtown.
Claire attended, wearing comfortable jeans and a stylish blazer, holding a glass of cheap white wine.
The room was crowded, loud, and vibrantly alive.
"What do you think?" Nora asked, appearing beside her and pointing to a large, abstract painting full of chaotic red and black strokes.
"It’s intense," Claire observed honestly. "It looks like an argument."
"She painted it right after her messy breakup," Nora laughed. "So, yes. It’s definitely an argument."
Claire smiled, taking a sip of wine.
"It's good that she found a way to put it on canvas instead of keeping it in her head."
"Speaking of keeping things in your head," Nora bumped her shoulder gently. "Are you seeing anyone? It's been over a year, Claire."
Claire looked at the painting, considering the question.
"No. I'm not."
"Are you looking?"
"Not actively."
Nora frowned. "You're not turning into a hermit, are you?"
"I'm not a hermit," Claire laughed. "I consult for Vanguard three days a week, I visit Rebecca, I have dinner with you."
"But you don't date."
"I spent fifteen years managing a grown man's emotional landscape," Claire said softly, her tone entirely devoid of bitterness. "I am profoundly enjoying the luxury of only having to manage myself."
Nora studied her face, searching for hidden sadness, but found none.
May you like
"Okay," Nora conceded. "But if you ever decide you want to manage someone else's emotional landscape, I have a very handsome, very well-adjusted colleague who asks about you."
"I'll keep it in mind," Claire promised, turning her attention back to the vibrant, chaotic art.
