21
So far workingfor Alvin Hamilton has been a dream come true. I see him every day, Monday through Friday, and some evenings during special events. There is so much I’m learning from him, and I finally opened my boxes of painting supplies thanks to him. I’ve yet to finish anything but the fact I’m even putting the brush to the canvas is amazing.
The best part of this new job is I’m spending so much time with Jimmy. Ever since that stormy night, we’re pretty much inseparable, and it’s like a part of me that has been asleep for years has awakened.
Tonight I’ve arranged a showing of Alvin’s work at a local gallery. We’ve offered them fifteen pieces of his work to feature. The fifty dollar cover charge includes viewing the work, meeting Alvin, and two glasses of wine. I’ve secured a local wine bar to cater the event. The best part is that Jimmy is attending as my guest and he can watch me in action. He’s a huge support system and it means the world to me.
Jimmy picks me up at my house (yes, I realize he only has to walk next door). He’s dressed in a nice, dark suit. I clearly stand out against him in my popping yellow gown. We arrive at the event early so I can make sure everything is set up and to Alvin’s standards. He demands perfection.
The art pieces are set up in a pattern perfect for foot traffic. The guests will need to travel down the pathway to view all the art in order to reach the bar where their wine awaits. In between each display is information on the piece and the price, should they wish to purchase any of it.
“You did an amazing job. You should be proud of yourself,” Jimmy compliments me with a quick kiss on the lips. I want him to take me in his arms and never let go. Now’s not the time, though. I have a job to do.
“Thanks. Iamproud of myself.” I haven’t been able to say that for weeks. Wow, it feels good. “I really loved working at Poppy Haus, but this is different. It’s so intimate and I have so much more control over everything. This job suits me.”
“That it does!” Alvin practically appears out of nowhere at our sides. He kisses my cheeks like we’re European. “This is why I hired you. I never could have done this myself and while I love my assistant, she isn’t a marketing genius like you! Please, enjoy yourself while you’re working. You deserve it.” He reaches his hand out to Jimmy. “I’m Alvin Hamilton.”
“Jimmy Gregg.”
“I have to get to the front, so when people start arriving I’m ready to go. The wine bar is being set up right now.” Alvin points over to the back of the venue where a woman with sparkling amber hair is pulling wine out of a box and setting it up with glasses.
Jimmy takes my hand and we head to the bar. He drops my hand when he sees the bartender, and walks speedily toward her. “Lisa?”
“Jimmy!” Lisa opens her arms and embraces him. His arms are around her, touching her back. I try to push back the stirring in my chest, but I can’t.
Lisa gives me a quick glance and Jimmy jumps in to introduce me. “Lisa, this is Reese. She coordinated the event tonight.”
Yes, Iamcoordinating the event. Is there a reason he forgot to mention we’re dating? I’m more than the event coordinator. Does he not want to share that with her?
“It’s nice to meet you. You’ve been in contact with my partner, Annie. She handles all the bookings for us.”
“Yes, Annie is wonderful.” We spoke many times. I hiredThrough the Grapevinedue to their solid reputation and because they are a woman-owned business. I shouldn’t be jealous of Lisa. She didn’t do anything wrong other than knowing Jimmy. That’s not a crime. I’m not the type of person to be jealous. So why am I?
“The setup looks great.”
“Thanks. Would you like a glass?” She picks up a stemmed glass.
“No, thank you. Possibly later. I have to be alert and mingle with the crowd tonight.”
“I’ll take one!” Jimmy speaks up. Lisa pours him a glass and he stands there with his elbow on the bar. “I’m going to catch up with Lisa. I’ll meet you up front later. Is that okay?”
What am I supposed to say? Besides, it’s not like he wants to follow me around as I chat with all the guests. At least he knows Lisa. I still don’t know how, though. I thinkthat’swhat bothers me.
“Yeah. Sure.”
He barely notices I’ve gone. What does that mean? As I slowly walk away, I turn, and he doesn’t even give me a second look.
Alvin puts me to work right away which bodes well for my overactive brain. For the better portion of an hour and a half I’m meeting new people, discussing Alvin’s work, and trying my best to sell what he’s offering. A few people express interest and that makes me super happy. I’ll admit when I talk about Alvin’s work, a light inside of me brightens. I wonder if I’ll ever talk about my own paintings like that.
Everything goes so well and the night’s end comes sooner than expected. By the time everyone has cleared out, I’ve managed to sell three of Alvin’s paintings totaling over $2,000. Not too bad for my first major gig with him.
“Fabulous job, Reese. This is why I hired you. Thank you. Your commission will be quite generous.”
I’m beaming with pride when he commends me for my work. Janet never patted me on the back. It’s not like Ineedorcravea pat on the back, but once in a while it feels good. It’s motivating, too. When I’m motivated, I’ll sell better.
I work on cleaning up the space, while Alvin parks himself on a lounge chair with another glass of wine in his hand. He lays his head on the back of the chair and closes his eyes as he listens to the music playing. I overhear Jimmy laughing with Lisa. I’m ready to go, so I head over there.
“Hey,” I say in almost a whisper as I walk up. I’m afraid to interrupt whatever they’re talking about.
