23. Bailey-Rose #3
“I think I might have mentioned that my parents gave me a studio for a graduation present. To call it a studio might be a little misleading. It’s a space that I can turn into a gallery and have a private area for me to work.
My dream is to have a place to display local artists, those who no one will take a chance on,” I shared, sitting up.
Warrick maneuvered me off his chest to sit beside him, curled up, with his arm wrapped securely around my ass. There was nothing sexual about it, more to offer security and to make it clear he didn’t want me going anywhere.
“Over the years of exploring this city, I’ve found so many amazing people in it.
Each time I asked about their journey or dreams, it’s always the same thing.
No one will give them the time of day unless they have a following or money to buy their way in,” I explained, my tone bitter.
This was one subject that could get me heated every time it was brought up.
“There’s no reason for things to be like that.
Art is subjective, and not every artist will have a massive market, but when their art finds the right person, it will impact them in a way no one else can.
Many simply need to be discovered, given the space to find those people who resonate with their art.
We create what our souls inspire, and no one should tell you that isn’t good enough. ”
The silence as the guys all stared at me with shock and awe had me tucking my hair behind my ear as I dropped my gaze.
Now I’ve gone and done it. I’d gotten on my damn soapbox ranting like a crazy person.
Well, people have always said that artists are an odd bunch, so I guess I’m totally living up to that standard.
“I think that is amazing,” Warrick announced before sitting up to hug me tightly.
“God, it’s crazy how perfect you are for us, Care Bear.
” He pulled back, holding my shoulders, his expression becoming serious.
“Whatever we can do to help you accomplish this goal, just say the word. I know money isn’t an issue, but I’d be more than happy to spread the word with my connections in the restaurant and hospitality world.
Just think, if we could get you on the map as a hotspot destination for people traveling, you’d have the perfect opportunity to find buyers willing to take a chance.
Not to mention, once I get you to do your piece on the nightclub wall, it will be great advertising. ”
My jaw dropped at the intensity behind his words and how he practically vibrated with excitement.
“He’s right, baby girl,” Gareth interjected. “This dream of yours deserves to be given any and all chances to succeed. Not only for you and your art but to inspire others to follow their dreams.”
Vili nodded his head excitedly and clapped his hands together. “Yes, this is good all good ideas. Maybe I make special line of jewelry that only is sold at the studio. Kitten, you and I shall create a collaboration.”
“I can help you make a contract that is favorable to you and your guest artists. I’m sure there will be some hoops to jump through with insurance, but we will figure it out together,” Yun-Sun assured me.
“It might also be advantageous to put together a buyer’s contract as well, something that ensures their painting and artistic copyright is protected. ”
Overwhelmed, I merely sat there stunned at how easily they were onboard with this idea.
Not only that, but understood exactly what I was trying to accomplish with this dream.
“R-really? You guys think this is possible? Randall—” I stopped speaking the moment I said his name, knowing it would upset them to finish that thought.
Ulysses stood, walked over to me, and cupped my chin as he held my gaze. “That idiot clearly didn’t know you at all, Rosie. Never have I met a more determined person than you. If this is what you’ve decided to do, then I pity the person who tries to stand in your way.”
“You mean that?” I asked, my voice hoarse with held-back emotions.
He bent down, our noses brushing and the heat of his breath on my skin. “Every. Single. Word.”
As if to add proof to his words, he sealed them with a kiss that stole my breath and left me wanting more as he pulled back.
He stroked his thumb across my cheek simply staring into my eyes.
“Bailey-Rose, trust that I will never lie to you. You might not always like to know what I have to say, but whatever comes out of my mouth will always be honest and true. That is the type of relationship I want between us.”
“Me too,” I blurted.
Ulysses smiled, his expression so tender and loving. “Good, I’m glad we agree. Now do we need to get you something else to eat? Speak now because I fully intend to put you to bed early.”
A shiver ran down my spine as the Alpha side of Lysse was taking charge. “Can I have more of what was made without the kale? I really liked the dressing that was on it.”
“I’ll see what I can do,” Ulysses answered with a quick kiss before heading to the kitchen.
Sitting there on the couch, Warrick curled around me, and with what I can only guess to be a dopey smile on my face, I sighed.
My life was turning out to be pretty damn perfect.