Page 354 of His Virgin Romance Series
“My God,” the gentleman who had just entered came forward with his eyes on Miles. “Is that little Miles? I haven’t seen you since you were in high school.”
“Middle school actually,” Miles said. “How are you, Mr. Stevenson?”
“I’m doing well,” Mr. Stevenson replied. “Margaret, look who’s here.”
“Miles,” Mrs. Stevenson said, coming forward and shaking his hand. “It’s been so long.”
“It has.” Miles nodded. “This is my girlfriend, Gabby.”
As I was introduced to the beautiful new couple, I couldn’t help but notice how uncertain Mr. Danvers was looking suddenly. Almost as though he was scared that Miles would embarrass him. That thought made me angry, and I felt almost as though I needed to defend Miles against his parents’ judgmental preconceptions.
“What have you been doing with yourself, Miles?” Mrs. Stevenson asked.
“He’s been taking the art world by storm,” I said, stepping in before Miles could say anything.
I saw Mr. Danvers flinch a little, but I kept going. Miles tried to shut me up, but I ignored him and sang his praises. “Let me show you some of his work,” I said proudly, as I whipped out my phone and found the gallery where I had saved all Miles’s paintings and sketches.
“My God… they’re beautiful,” Mrs. Stevenson said, with awe.
I saw Mrs. Danvers looking at the images over her shoulder, and I could tell that she hadn’t seen any of Miles’s recent work.
“You’re a very talented young man, Miles,” Mr. Stevenson said. “Tell me, have you been exhibited anywhere?”
“I’m about to be,” Miles admitted. “The owner of White Lines Gallery has agreed to let me exhibit my work at his next display.”
“Would that be Gordon Chadwick?”
“That’s the one.” Miles nodded.
“He’s notorious for delaying his exhibitions,” Mr. Stevenson said. “The man’s a perfectionist.”
“Unfortunately, I’m well aware.” Miles nodded. “He keeps pushing back the date of this exhibit. I don’t mind though… the exposure will be worth the wait.”
“Fantastic,” Mr. Stevenson said. “Will you send us an invitation when he finally decides to put on the show?”
“Of course,” Miles said, looking extremely pleased.
“You must be very proud of your young man,” Mrs. Stevenson said.
The question was directed at Miles’s parents, but both of them looked a little lost for words. So I held onto Miles’s hand and nodded. “I’m extremely proud,” I said fiercely.
