"Now that they're outside, I think it's time for you to catch up on the lessons you missed."

Rafayel’s lips curved into a soft smile as he grabbed a clean apron and handed it to you. After sending his young art students outside to observe the clouds for inspiration, he seized the opportunity to “make up for the days you missed his classes.” Deep down, it was his playful excuse to spend time with you. After all, you’d promised to spend Lantern Day with him—the local parade in Greensprings he'd mentioned five days ago when you met by the riverbank’s guardrail during your mission.

Noticing the blue seashell you had painted earlier, Rafayel added a long, elegant blue fish to accompany it. His hand guided yours, dragging the brush across the canvas as he softly instructed you to create a smooth, curved line.

But as your gaze lingered on him, he faltered for a moment, his cheeks and ears flushing a deep shade of red.

“Pay attention now.”