Chapter 119

Victoria The golden light of late afternoon had begun to soften, casting longer shadows across the beach. Leo's warning about returning before sunset echoed in my mind. "I really should get going," I said to Nicos, who was carefully cleaning his brushes. "My husband will be wondering where I am." Nicos nodded, though disappointment flickered across his expressive face. "Of course. But the offer stands for another sitting. This painting is good, but I feel there's more to capture about you, Victoria." "I'd like that," I admitted, surprising myself. "But our schedule is... flexible. I'm not sure exactly when I'll be free." He seemed to consider this, then brightened. "How about this? When you know you can come, text me about two hours before. That will give me time to set up properly." He gestured toward his easel. "Good light is everything, and I'd want to be ready for you." "That sounds perfect," I agreed, taking the small business card he offered. His cell number was scrawled on the b