did his parents‘ scolding deter him. He no longer cared about anything or anyone else. He just wanted to see Mia again, even if only for a moment.
Ironically, Nick had always despised art, particularly painting. His disdain stemmed from Xena’s marriage to a foreign artist years ago. But after learning that Mia had majored in fine arts in college, his aversion disappeared.
He began to immerse himself in art–related news, hoping to learn more about the subject. His aim was simple. When he found Mia, he wanted to show her he had made an effort to understand and embrace what she loved.
“Mia, today marks the 151st day since you left. Where are you? Do you know how much I miss -you?
“I’ve spent these 151 days reflecting on everything. I was such a fool before. I know I was wrong. Please forgive me.
“I don’t ask for much. I just want to see you again. Please, stop hiding from me. Come back. I don’t think I can hold on much longer.”
For 151 days, Nick sent messages to Mia. Every single day.
And every single message vanished into the void.
Not once did he receive a reply.
Nick teetered on the brink of collapse. Dark thoughts crept into his mind. “What if Mia is gone? What if I never see her again? Have I lost the love of my life because of one foolish act of revenge?” he thought to himself.
Just as he felt these thoughts might drive him insane, he stumbled upon an article in a foreign
media outlet about an art exhibition.
The feature included a photograph of Mia.
She stood beside a landscape painting, dressed in a pale teal dress, her smile serene and elegant.
Nick froze, every muscle in his body tightening. He stared at the photo, afraid to blink as though a single moment of distraction
might make her disappear.
“Someone! Get in here!” Nick’s voice roared through his office as he yelled for his assistant. Zac! I want every detail about this art exhibition. Right now! Find me everything–where it’s being held, who organized it–everything!”
1/2
+20 BONUS
Chapter 22
Zac, ever efficient, returned within the hour. “The exhibition is hosted by a woman named Erin Ivano. Based on my investigation, Erin Ivano appears to be Mrs. Larson’s artist name. We can confirm she’s in Merika.”
After months of fruitless searching, he had finally found her. Nick’s chest tightened, and tears stung his eyes. Without hesitation, he instructed Zac to book the next available flight to Merika.
“Mia, thank you. Thank you for not giving up on life. Thank you for still being here.
“Wait for me. I’m coming for you now.
“This time, I won’t let go. I won’t let you leave me ever again.”
