Chapter 151
After breakfast, Victoria put an ice pack on her swollen eyes and applied a bit more makeup than usual before heading to work.
Before she left, Alvin noticed how tired she looked and suggested, "Why don't you take the day off?"
Victoria shook her head and gave a small, wry smile. "I've already taken a lot of time off. Ms. Simpson's been really understanding, but I don't want to push it."
Alvin sighed and said, "Why not just quit? You need to focus on your University of Aesthetics Shine exams. I can support you."
Victoria smiled softly. "Dad, Starry Studio Gallery is one of the top galleries in the country. I worked really hard to get in, and I'm learning things there that I can't learn in school. I need to seize this opportunity."
Alvin frowned, hesitated for a moment, and then said, "I won't force you, but don't overdo it. If you get too tired, let me know."
"Don't worry, Dad. I know my limits." Victoria took a deep breath, clenched her fists, and resolutely walked out the door.
Alvin watched her slender figure disappear, feeling a mix of pride and concern.
Victoria was so determined!
Just as he turned to go back inside, his phone rang. It was Daisy.
Victoria mustered her energy and arrived at Starry Studio Gallery. As soon as she stepped inside, Wendy noticed something was off.
Victoria's usually bright eyes were dull, and her face was pale, as if she'd been through something tough.
"Victoria, are you okay?" Wendy put down the frame she was organizing and asked with concern.
Not wanting to worry her, Victoria forced a smile and said with a slight nasal tone, "Just a bit of a cold. I might not be at my best, but don't worry."
Wendy looked at her skeptically. "Are you sure?"
Victoria nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine."
She went to her workstation and buried herself in her tasks, avoiding further conversation.
Seeing Victoria's preoccupied look, Wendy didn't press further. She gently patted Victoria's shoulder and quietly made her a steaming cup of coffee.
Victoria looked up and smiled gratefully.
After finishing the coffee, Victoria felt more energized and pushed her worries aside, focusing entirely on her work.
She meticulously cleaned the glass displays, making sure every corner was spotless, which helped lift her spirits a bit.
When interacting with customers, she maintained her professionalism and enthusiasm, patiently explaining the features and background of each artwork.
Her dedication and knowledge impressed the customers, who left satisfied and praised her expertise.
The compliments from the customers significantly improved Victoria's mood.
Indeed, work was the best remedy for her troubles.
Victoria managed to get through the day with renewed vigor.
As she was packing up to leave, she heard a commotion outside.
She paused and looked out to see a handsome man in a light gray cashmere coat and gold-rimmed glasses standing at the gallery entrance with a bouquet of roses.
He was tall and well-built, with striking features and an air of refined elegance, like a noble from a bygone era.
Not only was he familiar to Victoria, but many of her colleagues recognized him too.
"Isn't that Professor Brown from the University of Aesthetics Shine? What's he doing here?" one colleague exclaimed.
Another chimed in, "He's holding flowers. Is he here to confess to someone?"
"Who could be so lucky to catch Professor Brown's eye?"
"Professor Brown is known for being aloof and distant. Could he be interested in someone from our gallery?"
The staff buzzed with speculation.
Samuel stood quietly, a gentle smile on his lips.
His gaze cut through the crowd, landing directly on Victoria.
Victoria was momentarily stunned.
Wasn't he supposed to be discharged the day after tomorrow?
Why was he here early?
A wave of inexplicable guilt washed over her, but she quickly suppressed it.
She hurriedly gathered her things and walked out.
As soon as Samuel saw her, his smile deepened. He handed her the roses and said softly, "Victoria, I'm here to pick you up."
Her colleagues' eyes widened in shock.
"Oh my God! Professor Brown is really pursuing Victoria! Am I seeing this right?"
"Victoria is so lucky! She's both Joshua's student and Professor Brown's love interest."
"I'm so jealous!"
Wendy watched the scene unfold, feeling happy for Victoria.
Samuel was much more reliable than William. Victoria would surely be happy with him.
Victoria looked at the vibrant roses in her hand, feeling a mix of emotions.
"Samuel, weren't you supposed to be discharged the day after tomorrow? Why are you out early?" she asked quietly.
"I wanted to surprise you," Samuel replied with a warm smile, his eyes full of affection. "Are you happy?"
Victoria lowered her gaze, contemplating for a moment. "I'm very happy."
Samuel's eyes darkened slightly as he gazed at her.
He reached out and gently tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, his tone indulgent. "What's wrong? You seem a bit down."
Victoria bit her lip and said softly, "Nothing, just a bit hungry."
Samuel chuckled. "Then let me take you to get something good to eat."
He took her hand and led her to a black Bentley parked nearby.
They arrived at a quiet restaurant and chose a window seat.
Samuel thoughtfully pulled out her chair and ordered her favorite dishes.
While waiting for their food, Samuel rested his chin on his hands and quietly watched Victoria. Suddenly, he spoke, "Victoria, I know something's on your mind. If you want, you can talk to me. Even if I can't help, at least let me share your burden."
Victoria looked out at the bustling street, silent for a long time.
Finally, she seemed to make a decision. She turned to Samuel and said slowly, "Samuel, let's go public."
"Go public?" Samuel raised an eyebrow, a hint of surprise in his eyes.
He hadn't expected Victoria to suggest it, but he was delighted by her initiative.
"Yes, let's post on social media and announce our relationship. Is that okay?" Victoria's voice was soft.