Liam's eyes scanned the room, taking in the vibrant colors and creative expressions.
Sophia tried to engage him in conversation, but he remained distant, his focus on the art.
,,,
🎵🎵🎵🎵
The alarm clock blaring beside the bed stand jolted Ruby up. Today is the day of the Art competition.
Ruby quickly got out of bed, excitement and nerves building up inside her.
She had been preparing for this moment for weeks, and she was determined to make a good impression.
As she got ready, Ruby's mind wandered to the art competition. She hoped her pieces would stand out among others.
She took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves.
Ruby finished getting dressed and headed downstairs for breakfast.
Her mind preoccupied with thoughts of the competition, and she hoped for her family's support.
While downstairs, Ruby thought about her conversation with her family the previous night.
She had told them about the art competition and their presence being needed. Her family's response had been lukewarm — Michael had asked her expectantly. "So Ruby, this art competition..how much do you think you can make from it?"
Victoria remained quiet with face scrunched but she quickly relaxed.
Ruby hesitated. "I don't know, Father. I just want to create something meaningful ".
Michael's expression turned stern. "Meaningful? What's meaningful is bringing in a good income. You need to focus on winning and getting the prize money."
Ruby tried to brush off her thoughts as she approached the dining room.
Michael, Victoria, Emily and Ethan were already seated and eating.
She said her morning greetings. Her family responded to her with nods and murmurs, their attention focused on their breakfast.
Ruby took a seat and began to eat, trying to push aside the lingering doubts.
As they finished their meal, Michael stood up. "I'll meet you all at the art competition later. I have some business to attend to."
Victoria and the kids nodded, while Ruby felt a pang of disappointment. She had hoped her father would show enthusiasm and support.
After eating, Ruby left the house with her family excluding Michael who left earlier.
As Ruby approached the auditorium, she noticed a commotion.
Reporters and camera crews swarmed around blocking her view.
Vivian, Emily and Ethan had already been ushered to the auditorium immediately they arrived.
While Ruby navigates through the crowd, she collides with a friendly-looking woman.
Ruby immediately apologized. The woman, Aurora Wynter, smiled warmly and waves her hand dismissively. "No need to apologize,dear".
Aurora's kind demeanor put Ruby at ease.
Staring at Ruby, Aurora felt a sense of familiarity with Ruby but brushed it off.
Aurora asked Ruby if she was part of the contestant and she replied "yes".
She asks Ruby about her inspiration and creative process and Ruby opens up about her pass for art.
Ruby's enthusiasm is infectious, and Aurora finds herself smiling as she listens to Ruby's stories about art while offering encouragement and support.
Her eyes linger on Ruby's face, a mix of emotions swirling beneath the surface. She can't quite place why Ruby seems so familiar.
Ruby remains unaware of Aurora's inner turmoil, chatting enthusiastically about the art competition and her hopes for success.
While talking, Ruby notices a flicker of sadness on Aurora's eyes. She wonders what's behind it, but Aurora quickly covers it up with a smile.
Aurora's smile returns, and she stared at Ruby. "You have talent and your inspirations are incredible". Ruby beamed with joy.
With the competition about to begin, Ruby prepared to leave. "Believe in yourself, Ruby. You'll succeed ". Aurora whispered words of encouragement.
Ruby smiled, feeling grateful for Aurora's support while walking towards Ava who had been calling out to her.
Aurora stared intently at Ruby with a piercing gaze before walking off.
,,,
The Competition
The stage was set up with a backdrop displaying the art competition's logo. The emcee stands at the podium, microphone in hand, welcoming the audience and contestants while introducing everyone. There were four judges available -Liam Grey, Mr Johnson, professor Bryan;a mentee in Art and the mysterious critic that haven't arrived, with the inclusive of Sophia Richmond(who knew nothing about Art).
The audience reaction to Liam Grey's introduction was overwhelming, with loud cheers and applause.
Just opposite the judges seat, the 10 contestants including Dani and Ruby were seated. This gave Ruby a chance to have a clearer view of who had caused commotion earlier.
While still staring, Liam locked eyes with her and they both felt this familiar feeling.
At the side, Sophia notices, feeling a sense of unease quickly nudged Liam while staring down at Ruby.
This little confrontation was interrupted when the emcee announced the arrival of mysterious critic.
Ruby's eyes were still fixed on Liam while Liam's expression remained neutral.
As the cheers and applause grew louder, Ruby's curiosity was eventually piqued as she stared towards the entrance.
The mysterious critic came into view- it was none other than Aurora Wynter.
Ruby's eyes widened in surprise as she realized Aurora is the mysterious critic. Still digesting the revelation, the emcee added the introduction of Aurora Wynter as the world's renowned artist with countless awards.
All while, Dani had been feeling excited. She couldn't wait to see Ruby's reaction.
Ah..ah..ah, that would be worth watching.
After the introduction, the emcee explained the judging criteria and the judges nodded in agreement. Aurora's eyes scan the contestants, her expression thoughtful.
Ruby felt a surge of nerves as she waited for the competition to commence.
The emcee announced the start of the competition, and the judges began evaluating the artwork. Ruby anxiously waits for feedback on her pieces.
In front of the judges were ten pieces of each contestant making it easy for the judge to evaluate.
Just then, there was sniffling laughter from the judges seat. It came from Sophia who is trying to stifle a giggle. Liam gave her a side eye, while Aurora and the rest of the judges remained focused.
Dani had been enjoying the drama, her eyes fixed on Ruby with a mix of excitement and curiosity. She seemed to be looking forward to seeing how Ruby will react to the judges feedback.
Ruby's nerves are on edge as she waits for the judges feedback. She is anxious to hear their thoughts.
The judges continued evaluating the artwork, taking notes and discussing the pieces among themselves.
Ruby's artwork catches Aurora's eye, and she pauses to study it more closely....