Chapter 233

233
Johan’s expression flickered for a moment before he finally spoke , voice calm but edged with disappointment , “ Monn’s skill in art is indeed higher than mine , it’s understandable you’d chose him ”
Johan wasn’t the petty sort
But he’d already mentioned his intent to take Colin as a disciple and planned to make it official in front of everyone .
If Collin hadn’t wanted that , he’d had plenty of chances to decline – yet he’d waited until this very public moment .
He hid it well , but the sting was real .
And seeing Collin publicly beg Mono for a spot – could it be that Mono had already made him a promise !
Johan sat up straighter , a shadow of imitation in his gaze as it swept toward Mono
All eyes landed on the old master .
Mono’s eyes narrowed slightly . “ So you’re Collin ? Hannah’s cousin ? ”
Collin suppressed his excitement and nodded quickly . “ Yes , that’s me . ”
Mono’s attention shifted to the big screen . “ You have talent , no doubt – your composition is rhythmic , your use of color is Layered , your eye for detail is impressive . But … ”
He paused , his gaze sharp , “ you’re too focused on technique . There’s a lack of true feeling . Johan , on the other hand , excels in this area . His work breathes with genuine emotion – he’s well ahead of me there . ”
Johan’s work was raw and honest , deeply felt
It was exactly because Collin was so technically brilliant yet emotionally distant that Johan had wanted to mentor him .
But now , even Johan was rethinking it .
A proud heart rarely listens well , maybe taking Collin on wouldn’t have been such a good thing after all .
Mono’s words had set Johan on a pedestal – any lingering displeasure evaporated . “ You’re too kind , Mono . Apprenticeship is about mutual willingness . Since Collin has his heart set elsewhere , I won’t force him . ”
He turned his attention to the last row of paintings. “ Who painted number eighteen ? ”
Katrina’s heart leapt wasn’t that hers ? Sh
immediately stepped forward , hand raised high . “ Johan , that’s mine ! ”
Her voice trembled with excitement ; Johan had noticed her . “ You switched to art later in the asked .
Katrina nodded , a smile breaking through . “ You’ve got a sharp eye . I only started in high school . ”
Johan replied . “ Your technique is still rough , but your ideas are fresh and you bring something unique . There’s promise here .
He was praising her .
Katrina felt like she could explode with joy . “ Johan , may apprentice under you ? ”
If Collin was right – opportunity was something he fought for . If she got rejected , so what ? She could handle embarrassment ,
But if Johan accepted her , she’d finally have leverage against her family
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Her eyes sparkled with anticipation and nerves .
Johan gave a gentle smile . “ Of course . ”
Katrina’s knees buckled – she dropped to the floor with a thud , tears springing to her eyes as disbelief hit her . “ You’ll really take me ? ” she cried
Johan chuckled , rubbing his temples . “ Let’s hold off on the kneeling until the official ceremony , shall we ? Get up ”
Katrina could barely stand , but another girl hurried over to help her up , still beaming
With Katrina settled , Johan turned back to Collin , who quickly cleared his throat . “ Mono , I know I have a lot to learn . Please , let me be your student . I’ll work twice as hard , I promise I won’t let you down . ”
y to take on another student . Besides , I already have one
But Mono had already made himself clear . “ I’m too old now , and I don’t have the energy ! apprentice . I won’t take anyone else .”
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