Portrait of An Arrogant Master - Chapter 42
If Eren was a businessman, it wasn’t strange for him to have connections with Baron Shearton. The idea of Eren being Duke Krygen was absurd.
“Is there a problem?”
“No, I’ll do my best!”
And so, Macy arrived at Baron Shearton’s estate. Morgan had driven the carriage, making the journey through the forest easy. The walls were lined with paintings of various subjects, and Macy examined them carefully.
‘Eren seemed completely unfazed…’
It had been three days since her accidental stolen kiss. Eren hadn’t mentioned anything, and his visits hadn’t changed in frequency or behavior. Macy was on edge, but he seemed just as usual.
‘Did he not notice?’
She felt relieved yet somewhat disappointed. It seemed she was the only one making a fuss about it. She was always getting excited and then let down, but why did it feel worse this time? As if she wanted him to notice.
‘I’m crazy…’
It was hard dealing with her feelings alone, but she knew she had to keep them hidden. Never again. Kissing was a dangerous indulgence that almost led to a huge mistake.
“Have you been waiting long?”
Someone entered the reception room. A man in a light-colored frock coat with long curly hair neatly tied back. His calm green eyes resembled a lush forest.
“Pleased to meet you, I’m Nicholas Shearton.”
“It’s an honor to meet you, Baron Shearton. I’m Macy Horton.”
Macy started, quickly bowing her head. He was younger and more handsome than she had expected.
“What were you looking at?”
“Oh, the paintings are so beautiful.”
“Miss Macy’s work will soon be among them.”
He smiled warmly. Anna had told her that Baron Shearton was a good employer. He was kind to his staff, sociable, and frequently hosted guests at the estate. To Macy, he seemed friendly and good-natured.
“I expected you to be beautiful, but you’re even more stunning.”
“Oh, thank you. The Baron is very handsome too…”
Surprised by the unexpected compliment, Macy felt a bit embarrassed. His smile broadened, then he asked an unexpected question.
“Is Eren treating you well?”
What? Did he know about their relationship? Or did he mistakenly think they were a couple?
Macy’s eyes widened, and she froze.
“No need to be so tense. I’m quite close to Eren.”
“Then…”
“Yes, I know about the Name.”
“Oh…”
So he did know. Eren had only mentioned him as a business contact. Their relationship seemed closer than she had thought.
“Eren treats me well. It’s more that I’m causing trouble due to personal circumstances. That’s why I really want to do well with this job.”
“I see. Eren would be proud to hear that.”
He smiled gently at her, which somehow made her more nervous. How had Eren introduced her? She was curious but didn’t dare ask, fearing it would get back to Eren.
“Shall we move to another location?”
“Yes.”
After a brief pause, he led the way, and Macy followed closely behind.
* * *
He brought her to a glass greenhouse in the back garden. The vibrant mix of red flowers and green foliage adorned the greenhouse beautifully. The wide sky was perfectly reflected through the intricate structures.
“Eren probably gave you a rough idea. Miss Macy will be painting scenes from the picnic.”
“Yes.”
“The theme is up to you. During the event, you’ll make quick sketches, and I’ll choose which one to finalize. Oh, just participating guarantees a reasonable fee, so don’t worry about the financial part.”
“Alright.”
Not all artists received a huge sum for participating in the picnic. About four or five artists typically joined, and even those not chosen for the final painting would receive enough for living expenses.
“But won’t there be a test for me?”
She had heard it was a popular job among artists. She had even brought some of her work, but he hadn’t mentioned reviewing it, so she decided to ask.
“Since Eren recommended you, I’m sure you’ll do well. It’s the first time Eren has referred an artist to me.”
“Really…?”
“Yes.”
Hearing that made her feel proud and also responsible to perform well.
‘I have to paint something that Eren would be proud of.’
