Page 46 of Note to Self
“Come on in. There are lots of people waiting to see you and talk to you,” Merrick says. “And champagne. After a glass or two, you’ll relax.”
Merlin squeezes my hand, and together we walk inside.
Friends mix with people I’ve never seen before, all smiling as they look at the art. Drew is studying a pencil drawing of Josh, taken from one of the photographs I keep on my phone. He’s smiling, his eyes sparkling with mischief as he looks directly at me. “Does it bother you?” I ask. Shit, I should have considered my words more carefully.
He turns his head to me, no animosity in his expression, no disapproval. “No, not at all. He’s an important part of Merrick’s life. Therefore, he matters in mine. His death was a tragedy, and Merrick wore his grief like a coat of armour when he first arrived. But he survived. More than that. He lived through his pain and slowly let Josh go. He will never be forgotten in our house.”
“Thank you for being here for Merrick, for loving him and Willow the way they deserve to be loved.”
Before we can say any more, Merrick touches my arm. “Can I steal you away. There are some people I’d like you to meet.”
I nod and let Merrick lead me to a small group of four people: three well-dressed men and a pretty, young woman in a beautiful cocktail dress. “It’s going amazingly, Trent. So many paintings have already been sold. These people are well-respected critics from some of the broadsheet newspapers, and they are keen to talk to you. Don’t look so scared. They’re good people.”
So I answer their questions about my background. They’re surprised that this is the first time I’ve painted, let alone had an exhibition. Merlin lets go of my hand, but as I’m locked in this conversation, I can’t comment or follow him.
After a few more minutes, the critics thank me for my time, and they carry on looking around. I can’t see Merlin or Merrick, but I weave through the group of strangers until I come to the section with the more risqué paintings and drawings. Ivan and Brodie are talking quietly.
I feel a little more confident after the praise from the critics. “What do you think?”
“These are so hot.” Brodie nudges my shoulder with his. “I never knew this side of you. I’m impressed.”
“Have you bought any? I’m sure there’s a space in your bedroom for one of these,” I tease. To my surprise, they nod.
“Yep, but I’m not telling you which one.” Brodie laughs.
“Where are the ones of your man?” Ivan waggles his eyebrows. “You must have drawn him.”
“I’m not answering that.” I grin and wink.
Brodie looks over my shoulder and frowns, worry etched in his face.
I turn around but can’t see anything untoward. “You okay?”
“Yeah, sorry. I thought I saw someone, but it’s nothing.” Brodie smiles, but it’s tense, not too genuine. Then he brightens. “I can’t believe I didn’t know this about you, Trent. Why have you hidden it for so long?”
“Um, I guess, I’ve always done as I was told. My parents didn’t approve. They always told me to stop doodling and concentrate on being a teacher. I don’t regret being a teacher, but this, well, this is me—the real me. Coming here is the best decision I’ve ever made.”
“And you found Merlin.” Ivan grins.
“Found Merlin what?” An arm snakes around my waist, pulling me against his body. He drops a kiss on my temple.
“Nothing, just me,” I say. “Just me finding you. Where’ve you been? You promised to hold my hand all night.”
“I know, and I’m sorry. I’m here now.”
Brodie is frowning again and claps be on the shoulder. “Merlin, can I borrow you for a minute?”
“Sure, what’s up?”
The two men walk through the elegantly dressed guests to a quieter part of the room.
“What’s all that about?” Ivan asks, but I have no clue.
The evening is going amazingly well. Trent is holding his own. No one knows how nervous he still is as he talks confidently and enthusiastically. I’m holding his hand, even though he doesn’t need it.
“I need you for a minute,” Merrick says quietly in my ear. “Can you leave Trent for a minute or two?”
“Sure.” I turn to Trent and whisper, “I’ll be back,” then go with Merrick. “What’s up?”
