Read Online The Heart-Shaped Emblor (The Ewlishash Series) by Alaina Ewing - Free Book Online Page B

thoughts drifted to my instructor, he approached. “This looks great.”
    “Thanks.”
    “So,” he paused. “I know you want an apprenticeship after your semester with me is finished—”
    “No, I—” I tried to interrupt, not wanting him to misunderstand my intent, but he shushed me.
    “You don’t have to explain yourself to me, Aislinn. I know you can only work one semester with me. If I were you, I’d want to stay working in a studio too. I also know, however, that you’ve had issues finding work due to your age. I’d like to help. So after this show is over with, I’d be happy to supply you with a list of places to apply and a recommendation letter.”
    “That would be amazing. Thank you!” I didn’t want Mr. Wellner to know I’d been applying, but somehow he’d found out. If I could’ve continued to work for him, I would have, but my hope was to find an apprenticeship that could also double as my internship needed for graduation. None of my friends believed I should rush through college, but that was precisely what I wanted.
    “You’re welcome. Why don’t you take off now? Things look great here, and you’ll have to wait until tomorrow for all the last-minute additions.” He beamed with pleasure as he surveyed my work.
    “See you later then.” I hurried, eager to get home and avoid seeing Jaden. The idea of running into her after my conversation with Cooper made me even more uneasy.
    ***
    The next few days melted into one long one. I planned everything out in detail, and it all came together fabulously. A graphic-arts student even designed the flyers for me, and they looked amazing. Very professional.
    As the night of the art show arrived, I felt ready. Cooper planned to meet me there since he’d been out sick the last couple of days, and I still had a lot to prepare. I even had on a dress for the event—a rare occasion for me. Fortunately, Jaden had been MIA all week, yet I was sure to see her at the show.
    With Cooper out sick, I had new insight as to what it would be like if we weren’t dating. Honestly, things were more pleasant than I assumed they’d be. I’d hardly noticed his absence.
    By the time six rolled around, the music had started, and the refreshments were ready for the taking. The culinary students brought food I didn’t even know existed, and in large quantities. Their instructor told me that she’d used the opportunity to test the students on how well they handled a large event.
    Mr. Wellner looked very pleased with the turnout. He even took the time to slip me the list of companies and the recommendation letter he’d promised into my hand in passing. I tucked them into my purse, excited about the opportunity this event would bring.
    As I walked the hall, checking on all the artists and their work, I spotted Cooper. He stood with his back to me, talking to someone while sipping at a drink. My excitement to see him was short lived, however. As I approached, I realized whom he had been laughing with. Jaden.
    I wanted to spit in her face and scream at my boyfriend for all to see, but I didn’t. Some little part of me kept pleading with myself not to go any further. Just to watch them.
    I tried to hide behind a large piece of wood that one of the cabinetry students had brought. I had no idea what it was supposed to be, but the piece made an excellent cover.
    The minutes ticked by and I realized that Cooper wasn’t even looking for me. In fact, he hadn’t looked away from Jaden once. I could see him touching her arm occasionally, sending a twinge of envy through me like fire in my veins.
    As I watched, I realized their laughs were in sync with one another. Their smiles were genuine and their laughter loving. Could it be possible that they both still loved each other? I began to go numb, as if a hot poker had just entered my brain and turned it to mush.
    I was about to drop my drink when I heard a collected, masculine voice behind me.
    “Careful…”
    I turned quickly