Page 92 of Nesting With My Three Alphas
Kit's scent spiked with sudden anxiety. "Oh, I don't know if I'm the right person to..."
"You're exactly the right person," I said firmly, my hand settling on her lower back in support. "You're the one who made this happen."
The interview lasted twenty minutes, with Kit gradually relaxing as she talked about the importance of creative expression for community mental health and the untapped artistic talent in small towns.
"What made you decide to start a beginner's class?" the reporter asked.
"Mrs. Parker, actually," Kit said with a smile toward the elderly omega who was part of the advanced group. "She pointed out that a lot of people were interested in art but intimidated by jumping into an established class with experienced artists. So we created a space where making mistakes was not just okay, but expected."
"And the response has been incredible?"
"Beyond our wildest dreams. We started with six people and now we have a waiting list. All designations, all ages, all skill levels. Art really is a universal language."
"This could be a model for other communities," the reporter said, scribbling notes. "Have you considered expanding the program?"
"I... haven't really thought about it," Kit admitted. "We were just focused on supporting our local community."
"Well, you should think about it. This kind of grassroots arts education is exactly what rural communities need."
After the reporter left, Kit stood in the barn doorway looking out at the celebration in full swing, looking slightly stunned.
"You okay?" I asked.
"I think... I think I might have just accidentally started something bigger than I intended."
"Good bigger or scary bigger?"
"Both?" Kit laughed, the sound a little shaky. "She's right, though. There are probably people in other small towns who could benefit from something like this. Who've been told their creativity doesn't matter or that art is just a hobby."
"So what are you thinking?"
"I'm thinking... maybe I should look into developing a curriculum that other communities could adapt. Maybe training other teachers, or creating online resources..." Kit's excitement was building again, the anxiety transforming into possibility. "There's no reason this should be limited to Hollow Haven."
"Kit Lennox, arts educator," I said with a grin. "I like the sound of that."
"Don't get ahead of yourself. I'm still figuring out how to teach twelve people at once without losing my mind."
But I could see the wheels turning, the way her mind was already working through logistics and possibilities. Kit had found her calling, and it was beautiful to watch.
The show and celebration continued until well past sunset, with soft lighting creating a magical atmosphere as people flowed between the barn gallery and the yard party. By the time we started cleaning up, every artist had sold at least one piece, several had commissions lined up, and Tom was already asking about starting an intermediate class.
"I can't believe this actually worked," Abigail said as we wrapped her remaining pottery pieces. "I was so nervous this morning I almost called in sick to my own art show."
"But you didn't," Kit pointed out. "You were brave, and look what happened."
"We all were brave," Jake added, carefully packing his portfolio with hands that shook slightly from residual adrenaline. "Thanks to you."
"Thanks to all of us," Kit corrected. "This was a community effort."
After the artists left with their families and their new commissions, it was just our pack and a property full of evidence that something special had happened. Empty plates scattered under the glowing lights, wine glasses on the barn windowsills,business cards tucked into people's pockets, and the lingering scent of joy and accomplishment.
"Well," Micah said, surveying the controlled chaos, "I'd call that a success."
"The biggest," Charlie agreed, flopping dramatically onto the couch. "Did you see how many people wanted to buy Mr. Wilson's paintings? He's gonna be able to afford the really fancy art supplies now!"
"Which means even better paintings," Kit said happily. "The cycle continues."
I watched my omega move through the space, collecting forgotten items and making sure the borrowed tables got back to their owners, her whole being radiating satisfaction. This was Kit in her element. Nurturing creativity, building community, making space for people to flourish regardless of their designation or background.
