Page 30 of Unforgettable
“Yes, please stay.”
Brew stepped off to the side.
“We’ve had an overwhelming response,” Claire continued. “Calls, messages, requests… people wanting to support you after hearing the news.” It’s then she notices Randi’s exposed hand and blindly reacts. Her face pales. She turns quickly away.
Randi blinks, aghast, covers it immediately, feeling as though her privacy had just been violently violated. She felt naked, her confidence and self-worth shot.
God. No. Not that.
Her fearful eyes meet Brew’s. He takes a step forward.
She shakes her head – slow movement but readable.
He stops. His look, compassionate and understanding.
Claire nervously cleared her throat and averted her eyes. Her voice is choppy as she attempts to gain some sense of control
“Your pieces at the center … well … they’ve drawn a lot of attention.”
A flicker of uncertainty changes Randi’s expression.
“And… six sold, including your self-portrait,” Claire said.
Randi stilled.
“Portrait. Sold?”
Claire nodded.
A quiet settled over the room.
“But that one shouldn’t have been included?” Randi proclaimed with a snap to her voice. Not realizing she pounded her chest with her injured hand. The pain it caused, registering on her face with a moan. “It was… for me … to release my … my-”
Claire gasped and quickly stepped back, with a look of revulsion on her face.
“Oh, Dear. I’m so … sorry. When you told my assistant to take them all, she didn’t realize the one she found left covered in a corner of your studio wasn’t to be included. Your wildflower piece –“
Claire’s voice faded in the distance. It was as if Randi’s room faded to black.
Randi’s breath caught. Her mind also caught between reality and the horror of her devastating past.
Twelve-years old. So much loss. Alone … all alone.
She swallowed.
Claire shuffled farther away.
Brew stepped forward, calling Randi’s name.
“Randi, are you okay.”
His voice connected.
Her eyes glazed from the memory that had surfaced, slowly zoning in on Claire’s continued chatter.
Claire glanced in Brew’s direction. He sent her a look that signified - don’t tell her.
“It was purchased without hesitation, Dear,” Claire added. “Full price. Requested anonymity.”
