Page 66 of Stalker's Toy

I clear my throat, and they turn to face me.

"Hey," I say, trying to inject confidence into my voice. "I was wondering if I could talk to you both about an opportunity."

Emma raises an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "What kind of opportunity?"

I take a deep breath, the words tumbling out in a rush. "There's this art show I'm involved in. It's... unconventional. Pushing boundaries. I think your work would fit perfectly."

James leans in, his eyes sparkling with interest. "Unconventional how?"

I hesitate, searching for the right words.

How do I explain Henrik's vision without sounding completely unhinged?

"It's... immersive," I begin, choosing my words carefully. "A blend of performance art and installation. The theme is exploring the darkness within humanity, the hidden desires and fears we all carry."

Emma's eyes widen. "That sounds intense. And fascinating."

I nod, feeling a flicker of hope. "It is. The curator, Henrik Lindberg, he's... visionary. Controversial, but brilliant. He wants to create an experience that shakes people to their core."

James takes a sip of his drink, considering. "And you think our work would fit?"

"Absolutely," I say, my voice gaining strength. "Your sculptures, James—they're raw, visceral. And Emma, your graffiti... they have this haunting quality that lingers long after you've looked away. That's exactly what we need."

I can see the interest growing in their eyes, but there's still hesitation.

I press on, fueled by a desperate need to make this work.

"Look, I know it's a lot to take in. But this could be huge for all of us. A chance to be part of something groundbreaking."

Emma exchanges a glance with James. "When's the show?"

"Three weeks from now," I reply. "I know it's short notice, but?—"

"We're in," James interrupts, a grin spreading across his face.

I blink, startled. "Really?"

Emma nods, her excitement palpable. "Absolutely. This sounds like exactly the kind of challenge we've been looking for."

Relief washes over me, so intense I feel dizzy. "That's... that's amazing. Thank you."

James raises his glass. "To pushing boundaries and exploringthe darkness."

We clink glasses, and as I take a sip, I feel a weight lift from my shoulders.

As we discuss the details, I can't help but marvel at how easily they've agreed.

Part of me wonders if they truly understand what they're getting into.

But mostly, I'm just grateful.

As we continue to chat, I find myself relaxing slightly.

The alcohol helps, dulling the ever-present anxiety that thrums beneath my skin.

For a moment, I almost feel... normal.

Like I belong here, among these people who understand the drive to create, to express the darkness within.

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