The first time they met, Alfred boasted about his love for photography, mentioning how he had amassed a collection of cameras at home. He went on and on about the history of Sony and Hasselblad to Tina. Upon entering the gallery and observing a few pieces, Alfred couldn't hide his disdain. "What is this stuff? They call this art?"
Not everyone appreciated Sayaka's work, dominated by a palette of greys and featuring vegetables, apparel, fish, and metallic objects. For instance, a dress adorned with sardines and high heels covered in fish scales showcased her bizarre imagination and peculiar style. Art was subjective, after all. But even if one didn't appreciate some art, he should respect the diversity it brought.
Tina's excitement for the exhibition plummeted like a falling stock price. She hummed in agreement and flatteringly said, "I think your photos are better than hers."
Alfred scratched his head modestly. "Well, I wouldn't go that far. She's an artist. I'm just a hobbyist."
When Alfred bumped into an acquaintance, he immediately started chatting overly friendly, leaving Tina to receive ambiguous glances from the men.
"This must be your lady."
The two families were in the initial stages of contact, far from engagement, yet Alfred already acted as if he owned the place, nudging Tina to greet his friends.
"These are my buddies. Call them 'bro'."
The group awaited her greeting with anticipation.
"Oh." Under normal circumstances, Tina would've indulged Alfred with a sweet response, but her mood was off. Without satisfying Alfred, she said, "You guys carry on. I'll take a look around by myself." Without caring about their reactions, she turned and walked away.
Roaming the exhibition hall on her own, Tina found it more enjoyable without Alfred. Although Alfred shared her interest in photography, compatibility wasn't just about common interests.
Phillip never belittled anyone. He respected everyone's strengths and treated fields outside his expertise with the same respect.
She couldn't compare them,
convincing herself she wouldn't fall for Alfred because Alfred couldn't measure up to Phillip. That way, she would be safe.
.ne
The more she thought about it, the more it made sense. Then, unexpectedly, she raised her eyes and saw that familiar figure behind the second-floor glass railing.
Their eyes met, and Tina paused momentarily.
She knew the gallery owner, a regular in her social circle, often visiting for exhibitions.
He smiled and waved at her, and she ascended the stairs, greeting him, "Hey there."
The gallery owner asked, "Enjoying today's exhibition? It took some effort to borrow a few of these pieces."
"It's great, Tina replied, picking up a
cup from the table and pouring herself some coffee. "It's been ten years since her last exhibition. How did you manage?"
Phillip interjected before the owner could reply, "Weren't you heading out?"
"Was I?"
After a brief exchange of looks, the owner conceded, "Right, I'll step out for a bit. You two enjoy the exhibition."
With the owner gone, Tina casually conversed with Phillip. "What a coincidence. You know him?"
"His wife is my cousin," Phillip explained.
"Oh," Tina sipped her coffee.
A silence fell between them, different from the comfortable quiet they shared back in Stonebridge last year.
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