Life of Colour

Chapter 1

My name is Milena Grant, and I've always seen the world through the lens of art. Born to loving parents, Maria and Michael, I grew up surrounded by vibrant colors and creative expression. Mom, an art teacher, nurtured my talent from a young age. Dad, a musician, instilled in me the rhythm of life. My younger brother, Alex, was my partner in crime, always eager to model for my sketches. Our family home, filled with laughter and inspiration, shaped me into the artist I am today.

Growing up in a picturesque town, I explored the outdoors, finding beauty in nature's intricacies. I'd spend hours sketching flora and fauna, honing my skills. Art became my escape, my sanctuary. I pursued it relentlessly, earning a scholarship to the prestigious Bellvue Art Institute. Those four years were transformative, as I discovered my unique voice and style.

After graduation, I opened my own studio, showcasing my work in local galleries. Sophia Patel, my best friend and confidante, owned the esteemed Patel Gallery, providing me with invaluable exposure. Emily Taylor, my art colleague, collaborated with me on exhibitions, sharing our passion for creativity. My art and supportive network propelled me forward.

Yet, life wasn't without its challenges. My ex-boyfriend, Ryan, shattered my trust with his infidelity. The heartbreak lingered, influencing my art. I poured emotions into pieces like "Shattered Dreams" and "Echoes of Pain." The experience taught me resilience and the importance of guarding my heart.

Currently, I'm preparing for my solo exhibition, "Ephemeral Emotions," showcasing 20 pieces that reflect my inner turmoil and growth. Sophia's guidance and Emily's encouragement fuel my creativity. Alex, now a successful photographer, captures stunning images for my art catalog.

On a typical day, I wake up at dawn, sipping coffee while reviewing my schedule. I allocate time for painting, meetings with Sophia and Emily, and networking events. My studio's my haven, where I lose myself in art. I'm driven by an insatiable passion to create, to express the depths of human emotion.

This evening, Sophia convinced me to attend the charity gala at the luxurious Blackwood Hotel. I hesitated, fearing the elite crowd would suffocate me. But Sophia's persistence won. I agreed, hoping for a night of distraction from my art.

As I entered the grand ballroom, a sea of faces blurred together. I felt out of place among the glamorous attendees. That's when I saw him – Asher Blackwood, the enigmatic billionaire, standing across the room. Our eyes met, and for an instant, the world stopped. His piercing gaze held mine, sending shivers down my spine. I quickly looked away, focusing on the artwork displayed around the room.

Little did I know, my life was about to intersect with Asher's in unexpected ways, sparking a maelstrom of passion, danger and self-discovery. The darkness that shrouded him would test my resilience, forcing me to confront the shadows within myself.

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***