Mia’s art exhibition was a resounding success. Of the day of the event, the gallery was bustling with socialites and prominent figures. Zoe had also invited several media outlets to cover the event and create a buzz.
As a result, the exhibition quickly made its way into the arts sections of major news platforms. One journalist even described Mia as “a rising star in the art world.”
“That journalist is spot on!” Zoe exclaimed as she scrolled through her phone, reading the glowing reviews.
She turned to Mia with pride written all over her face. “Our Mla is so talented! Every painting is vivid and deeply moving. You really are a rising star in the art world.”
Mia couldn’t help but laugh, though she felt a little overwhelmed by the praise.
It seemed like a cultural difference. In this country, people rarely criticized children. Instead, they lavished them with praise, even when they made mistakes. Parents here would start by acknowledging their child’s bravery or honesty before gently explaining what went wrong.
Zoe, having lived abroad for years, had fully embraced this approach. Whatever Mia did, Zoe would find a way to heap exaggerated praise on her.
If Mia cooked, Zoe would declare it better than a Michelin–starred chef’s cuisine. If Mia swept the floor, Zoe would rave about how fast and thorough she was. Even if Mia did absolutely nothing but sit there, Zoe would say, “Look at how poised and graceful you are. You’ve got such presence–just like me.”
Mia often thought, “So I don’t even have to do anything? Just existing is enough to get compliments?”
That said, Zoe’s constant encouragement had a profound impact on Mia.
Growing up, Mia had been used to being criticized and overlooked. Charlie, though she loved Mia dearly, was always consumed by the burdens of life. Exhausted and drained, she simply didn’t have the energy to offer Mia emotional support or encouragement. Ensuring Mia was clothed and fed had already pushed her to her limits.
