January fifteenth arrives with snow and nervous energy.
The Chen Creative Initiative officially launches today. Fifty scholarships awarded to kids who couldn't otherwise afford art supplies and classes. A ribbon cutting at the community studio. Media coverage that I've been dreading for weeks.
"You're going to be great," Lily assures me while I change outfits for the third time.
"I'm going to throw up."
"You're not going to throw up. You're going to give a speech about helping kids pursue their dreams, cut a ribbon, and smile for cameras. You've done harder things."
"Have I though?"
My phone buzzes. Marcus.
Good luck today. You're going to be amazing. I'll be there in the audience but staying out of the way. This is your day. —M
The thoughtfulness of it—being there to support but n
