“It’s just as well, then. You don’t need him or his gallery,” Nana’s voice hardened. “It’s his loss.”
Kat teared up again. “Oh, Nana. Things seem to be going all wrong. I don’t know what I’m supposed to be doing. I was passed up for a promotion at work a couple of weeks ago, too. They hired someone from outside.”
“Dearest Kat, I can understand why you’re upset. That’s another tough blow. But you don’t need all the answers right now. Give yourself some time. Let things take their course. Listen, I’m going to talk to your dad, and we’re going to come visit you anyway. He’s already made all the arrangements. It’s been years since I was in the city.”
She paused, and Kat let the silence stretch a moment.
“They do know? You’ve told your folks?”
“No. It just happened yesterday. I…I don’t know what to say. I wish I’d never told them about the show at all. I made such a big deal of it. Wanted them to be proud.” She swiped at the tears on her face. “That guy didn’t see me as an amazing artist—good enough to not embarrass him, I guess—but mostly an easy target. A desperate artist willing to do anything to get a show.”
“Nonsense. Youarean amazing artist, and you should expect shows and your parents’ pride and many great things.”
Kat squeezed her eyes shut. Nana…her personal cheerleader.
“You know, sweetheart. The man is breaking a contract. Maybe that’s his right, but maybe there’s a loophole. Your mother will know people. She could at least threaten him but good.”
Kat almost laughed. Nana should team up with Nick. “No, I can’t involve Mom. That would make the situation even more humiliating than it already is.”
“Do you want me to tell your father?”
Oh, how she’d love to avoid that call. But could she put that on Nana? Was that a coward’s way out?
“Let me take care of it, sweetheart. And I’ll tell him we’re still coming to treat you to a weekend on the town.”
“But, Nana, what will we do?” Without the show, there’d be so much down time. And a big fat void in the weekend plan.
“All the things you already had set up. Add another play or a museum. I don’t care. I want to spend time with my granddaughter.”
“Are you sure, Nana? You feel up to it?”
“Absolutely. Is that young man you’re seeing still going to be there?”
“I don’t know. We haven’t talked about it.” She glanced toward the bathroom. She knew the timing wasn’t the greatest for Nick since he was set to begin HBTV filming. He might like to have an extra day or two. Maybe he could still join them for a dinner and meet Nana at least.
“I hope so. I’m looking forward to meeting him. We’ll have a grand time.”
Trust Nana to take it in stride and make everything seem all right. Not that Kat had much choice. There was nothing she could do but move on. But it seemed as if her path now was unclear. Move on how? To where?
“Good heavens, I nearly forgot why I called in the first place.”
“What’s up?” Kat frowned into the phone. Of course, she hadn’t called to hear Kat’s bad news.
“I know this won’t make up for losing the show, but I have an opportunity I want you to consider. The art museum here is looking for auction items for the annual fundraiser. How would you like to donate a painting?”
“Hmm. I certainly have a surplus now. They’re framed and ready to go. Could be pricey to ship.”
“I’ll cover that cost. It’s for a good cause, and I know any of your pieces would command an excellent bid. All the big art patrons in the city attend that ball, my dear. It could be a wonderful opportunity.”
The bathroom door opened, and Nick peeked around. Kat caught her breath. Okay, time to end this conversation. Heart pounding, she moved toward Nick. “Sure, Nana. Do you have all the info on who to send it to and when?”
“I’ll send you an email with the details.”
“That’s perfect.” Kat stopped inches from Nick’s bare chest. She took his hand and twined her fingers through his.
“All right, love. I’ll talk to you later.”
“Bye, Nana.” Kat ended the call and stepped into Nick’s arms.
