When Love is a Question Mark
Chapter 39: Gallery visit

Chapter 39: Gallery visit

Samuel couldn’t hide his excitement at the thought of spending more time with Zinnia. Visiting her gallery felt like the perfect chance to show her he could be by her side, that he wanted to understand her world.

Zinnia noticed his enthusiasm and teased him with a soft smile. "You don’t have to look so excited, it’s just a gallery," she said with a light chuckle.

Samuel tried to act casual, but his excitement was obvious. "I know, but I’m looking forward to seeing it for myself. Besides, it’s been a while since we spent time like this—just the two of us."

Zinnia’s smile faltered for a moment. She nodded, realizing how true his words were. "Yeah, it has been a while."

They stood up, Zinnia gathering her things while Samuel patiently waited by the door. His energy was contagious, but she appreciated how he gave her space, letting her move at her own pace.

As they stepped out of the house, the sun was bright but not too hot, casting a warm light over the garden they had just been playing in earlier.

The world outside felt peaceful, much like how Zinnia felt around Samuel today. It was strange how easily they had fallen into a comfortable rhythm, considering how strained their relationship had been not too long ago.

The gallery wasn’t far, and they arrived quickly. Zinnia led the way, her steps confident as she entered, and Samuel followed close behind. He took in the paintings on the walls, admiring the art with quiet awe.

Zinnia’s gallery was a collection of her life’s work—paintings that told stories of her emotions, her thoughts, and different stages of her journey. The first floor was open to the public, while the second floor housed her private studio, where she painted in solitude.

"Only a few people know about my studio upstairs," Zinnia explained as they walked. "I usually enter through the back, but I wanted us to come in through the front today."

Samuel nodded, understanding why she wanted to share this moment with him. It was the first time he had seen the front of the gallery; in the past, he’d always dropped her off at the back gate before rushing to work.

Even during her live streams, Zinnia usually filmed from home. They had a small studio set up just for that.

As they moved through the gallery, one painting caught Samuel’s eye. It was a soft blend of blues and whites, with golden streaks like sunlight breaking through clouds. He stood in front of it for a long moment, lost in its depth.

"This one," Samuel said, his voice thoughtful, "it feels like hope mixed with sadness."

Zinnia smiled softly, recognizing the piece instantly. "That’s exactly what I was feeling when I painted it. I wasn’t sure where my life was going, but I still had hope."

Samuel stared at the painting for a while longer before speaking again. "You’re really talented, Zinnia. I can feel what you were feeling when you made this. It’s... powerful."

Zinnia blushed at the compliment, feeling a little shy. "Thank you," she said quietly. She wasn’t used to Samuel being so open with his emotions, and hearing him express himself like this was new, but not unwelcome.

They continued through the gallery, with Zinnia explaining the stories behind each piece. Samuel listened intently, asking questions and sharing his thoughts. Zinnia was surprised by how much he cared, how attentive he was.

Though Samuel was familiar with the paintings—he had posted most of them on Zinnia’s fan page, "Zia’s Little Flowers"—seeing them in person was different. He was finally seeing Zinnia’s world, not through a screen, but with his own eyes.

As they neared the end of the gallery, Samuel noticed they were alone, aside from a few staff members in the distance. "It’s pretty quiet here," he remarked.

Zinnia nodded, glancing around. "Yeah, we’re redecorating the gallery and changing some displays, so it’s not open to the public right now."

Samuel’s eyes caught a beautiful arrangement of fresh flowers in the corner, vibrant against the neutral tones of the gallery. "Those flowers are nice," he said, admiring the display. "They really brighten up the place."

Zinnia smiled, her eyes lighting up. "They were sent by one of my fans. I’m really grateful for their support."

Samuel’s heart skipped a beat, and he quickly looked away, feeling a blush creep up his neck. Hearing her gratitude made him feel strange, almost as if she were unknowingly thanking him—after all, he was Mr. Sunshine, her secret fan who had sent those very flowers.

"Come on," Zinnia said, tugging his arm playfully. "I’ll show you my studio upstairs."

They climbed the private staircase, entering the sanctuary where Zinnia’s creativity came to life. The studio was spacious, filled with natural light from large windows. The walls were covered with unfinished canvases, sketches, and splashes of paint. Shelves on one side held brushes, paint tubes, and art supplies in a cozy mess.

"This is where the magic happens," Zinnia said with a grin, her eyes sparkling. "I do most of my work here when I need peace and quiet."

Samuel looked around in awe, absorbing the artistic energy of the space. "It’s amazing, Zinnia. I can see why this place inspires you."

Zinnia nodded, walking over to a canvas that was still in progress. It showed a stormy sea, waves crashing violently under a dark sky. "This one’s not finished yet," she explained. "It’s about finding calm in the middle of chaos."

Samuel studied the painting, impressed by the raw emotion in every brushstroke. "It’s powerful," he said softly. "Just like all your other work."

Zinnia smiled, feeling a little shy under his gaze. "Thanks," she murmured.

As they talked, Samuel realized how different things felt between them now. He was grateful for this moment, grateful to be by her side in a place that meant so much to her.

"I’m glad I came today," Samuel said after a long pause. "I feel like I understand you more now."

Zinnia looked at him, surprised by his sincerity. "I’m glad you’re here too," she said quietly. "It means a lot to me."

They stood there for a moment, the silence between them comfortable.