Chapter 61:
“Of course it’s convenient. What more can I say when you’ve spoken up?” Madame Isha smiled and asked, “Miss Elara, are you studying art?”
Meng Shuyou nodded. “I’m studying fine arts.”
“No wonder you have an artistic temperament that’s different from others.” Madame Isha called a servant and instructed, “Take Miss Elara to the top floor to visit, and make sure to entertain her well.”
“Okay.”
Meng Shuyou politely thanked them and followed the servant upstairs.
The attic was quiet and peaceful, isolated from the noise downstairs.
The collection room had a constant temperature and humidity system, providing the most suitable storage environment.
Various paintings covered the walls, arranged neatly and orderly. They were all rare collections not seen outside, each worth a fortune.
Meng Shuyou carefully examined each one, searching for the emotions conveyed by the creators.
She lingered for a long time in front of a portrait painting.
This was the last artwork of a painter before his death, titled “Sleeping.”
Footsteps came from the doorway, and a young man walked in.
The servant called out, “Young Master.”
“I’m here to find a book.” The man’s gaze was drawn to the figure by the wall. She had a very beautiful Eastern face, and surprise flashed in his eyes.
Wasn’t this the inspiration muse he had always been looking for?
William walked over proactively and struck up a conversation. “Do you have any special insight into this painting?”
Meng Shuyou thought for a moment. “Death may be another new life. Though she is in eternal sleep, she will exist in another way, just like the butterfly breaking out of its cocoon in the painting.”
“What a unique angle.” William said delightedly, “Are you studying painting too?”
“Mm.” Meng Shuyou looked up.
The man in front of her had short brown hair, handsome features, and was wearing a khaki casual suit. He was elegant and gentlemanly, with the air of a noble young master.
“What a coincidence, me too.” He smiled. “I’m William. Can we be friends? We could exchange ideas sometime.”
Meng Shuyou nodded. “Hello, I’m Elara.”
William kept the conversation going. “You look young. Are you still studying?”
Meng Shuyou looked away. “About to start my fourth year.”
“Are you an international student here?”
“I study in America.”
“So you’re here for vacation during summer break?” William said, “If you need a tour guide, I’d be happy to help. There are many art spots here, perfect for finding inspiration.”
Meng Shuyou politely declined. “No need to trouble you, thank you.”
William hid his disappointment. “Alright.”
Just then, a servant outside called him. “Young Master, Madame is looking for you downstairs.”
“Okay, I’ll come down right away.” William said goodbye to Meng Shuyou. “I’ll head out first then. Goodbye.”
“Goodbye.”
The room returned to quiet.
It was already very late when Meng Shuyou finished viewing the paintings.
On her way downstairs, she received a telephone call from Pei Yuzhou. He said he wouldn’t be back tonight, and the servants would arrange a room for her to stay in.
Meng Shuyou looked down at the formal dress she was wearing. “But I have no clothes to change into.”
Pei Yuzhou had thought ahead. “Your luggage is here.”
“Oh.” Meng Shuyou heard voices talking on his end. “Are you still busy?”
“Mm.”
“Then I won’t disturb you.”
Guests’ rooms were arranged on the second floor. The banquet lasted three days, and guests coming from afar generally stayed here temporarily.
The servant took Meng Shuyou to rest.
The room was fully equipped with retro lighting and furniture, exquisite fabric decorations, luxurious and grand.
Meng Shuyou removed her makeup, took a shower, dried her hair, and went to bed.
The whole day had been too full. She had gotten up early in the morning to paint, and in the afternoon had visited several attractions outside. Her body was fatigued, and she fell asleep quickly.
