POV (Point of View)

Chapter 23: Suppressed

"You're totally going to win." A pair of green orbs turned to her companion seated seriously beside her. They are still in the hall, waiting for the results to be announced. But Sarina is as anxious as ever.

"I don't want to expect since everybody did so well. But now that I'm here, my heart is pumping so much." This time, a pair of purples turned in her direction. With both of her hands over her thighs, she has a smile painted on her face while looking at the people who are walking around while viewing the artworks of the participants.

"I can't believe I just joined an art competition with no prior experience. I don't know if I should thank you or strangle you, Ran-kun." The man chuckled deeply as she said that.

"You're welcome, Sasa-chan. But you have to admit that you had so much fun." What he replied made the woman grin and look at her still trembling hands.

"You totally said it. While I was drawing earlier, my heart was beating so fast I could feel my hands shaking in excitement. I didn't know painting could be so fun." The man didn't realize it, but he was staring at her smiling face.

She becomes pretty when she's happy.

"Hey, Sasa-chan. How did you come up with it? Your artwork?" The man suddenly asks and rests his long arm behind her, while still looking at the female beside him.

"Well, I actually had that idea for a book before. But it was utterly rejected by my editor. I can't believe that it would receive a positive response this time." Responded the black-haired who smiled once again.

Damn it. He takes it back. She's actually prettier when she's smiling.

"Hey, Sasa-chan. What do you think about pursuing painting from now on?" That took the female by surprise. But before she could respond, the two sighted Himitsu walk towards the center with a piece of paper in her hand.

"That must be the result."

"Yes. I'm so nervous." The two whispered to one another.

"It's gonna be fine." Winked the man to the artist beside him.

"Good afternoon, everyone once again. I have in my hands the result of our thorough deliberation. We have selected the three winners." Ran sees the way the black haired closed her fists over her dress followed by a deep breath. Now, even he is anticipating what awaits.

"On third place, we have...Mister Gin Fugaku for his 'The World in the Interstellar Lens'." The audience clapped as the male artist was called. A certificate and an envelope were given to him before he stood beside his artwork.

"Second place goes to...Miss Abbi Akigawa for her 'Women of the World'." At that point, Sarina's heart went a bit louder and faster. She doesn't want to expect anything, but she just cannot help it. Not after receiving those words of encouragement after her presentation.

"And the first place..."

She clasped her hands together like a prayer, and closed her eyes, praying for her name to be called. Even just for a moment, she hoped to be seen. To be chosen.

"...goes to Miss..."