Read Online Work of Art ~ the Collection by Ruth Clampett - Free Book Online Page B

about this. I’m sure Adam spoke highly of me and Max may have his demands, but Jonathan must see something in me to go along and give me a career-defining opportunity. I’m so grateful and I feel a swell of affection. His eyes soften under my gaze.
    “Thank you, Jonathan. I’m really honored and I won’t let you down.”
    He smiles warmly. “Wonderful. Let’s proceed then.” He pulls out a card and hands it to me. “Here’s the number for Max’s agent, Dylan. You can call him about arranging a meeting to discuss the project. You should do this as soon as possible. I’m sure you realize the hardest part of this project will be managing the artist. And that’s not easy with Max, not in any regard.”
    I nod, knowing he’s absolutely right.
    “Meanwhile our lawyer will contact you in the morning with an agreement. And my assistant will set up a time to for you to come by the office and go over technical issues, layouts, word count, fact-checking, etc.”
    This is all happening so fast. I’m teetering between euphoria and terror.
    Jonathan signs the receipt and slips his wallet back in his jacket.
    “If this goes well, Ava, this will open all kinds of opportunities for you.”
    He places his hand over mine and I’m immediately curious. What type of opportunity is he referring to?
    We get up just as the bar is filling up and head out to the valet. Right before my car pulls up, he steps closer and runs his fingertips along my arm.
    “You know, Ava, I really think you’re something special. I’m looking forward to getting to know you better.” He gives me an intense look before kissing me lightly on each cheek.
    “Thank you for the drink, Jonathan, and thank you for the opportunity.” I smile, but I’m overwhelmed. Jonathan Alistair sees something special in me.
    He’s at the top of the art world hierarchy, and he’s handsome and charming to boot. I also feel a thrill because it’s feeling like some of his interest in me has nothing to do with publishing.

    The next day, I step outside the studio three times with my phone before I finally get the nerve to call Max. Jonathan asked me to contact Dylan, but I need to get a sense of what’s going on with Max before we meet. The only way to accomplish that is to talk to him directly.
    He picks up the after two rings. “Hey, Ava. What’s up?” I swear I can hear the smile in his voice.
    Smooth, I think. Let’s all pretend his demands haven’t changed the course of my career.
    “Hey, Max. I met with Jonathan last night and he asked me if I would write the copy for your art book. That’s a pretty amazing offer for an inexperienced writer,” I say, trying to sound as casual as possible.
    “You haven’t changed your mind, have you? Jonathan said you were a little nervous about it.” He’s the one sounding nervous now.
    “No, I’m excited about it, and of course flattered, but I can’t imagine why you think I’m the right person for this? I’m sure there are hundreds of writers in the art world far more qualified than me.”
    “But they won’t be you, Ava. Remember all the things I said at tea, how I have a feeling about you . . . that we were destined to meet and help each other? And remember how I wanted us to work together? I haven’t stopped thinking about that and then the book issue came up again. It was all so clear. This is our chance!”
    I have to steel myself because the sheer joy in his voice, the conviction destiny has pushed us together is seductive in the most dangerous way.
    Remember the dream, remember the dream, I chant to myself. The image of me on my knees in the darkened gallery is sobering. I try another tack.
    “But Max, what if I screw it up? What if it sucks? I’m not even a published writer. You don’t want to be embarrassed.”
    “Ava, I’d never let that happen. Surely you know how important this project is. I wouldn’t want either of us to look bad.”
    “But—”
    “Look, don’t make up your mind now.