Beneath the mistletoe

chapter 19

Emily’s heart raced as she read the email for the third time, her fingers hovering over the keyboard. The message was from Luca, asking if she’d be interested in collaborating with the company where he and Xander worked. They were revamping their website and wanted fresh, engaging artwork for their new portfolio.

At first, she thought it was too good to be true. It had been months since she’d decided to pursue painting professionally, and while she had sold a few pieces and participated in local art shows, this was her first major opportunity.

She picked up her phone, dialing Xander’s number.

“Hey, Xander,” she began nervously when he answered. “I just got an email from Luca about a project at your company. Was that… your idea?”

“Partly,” Xander admitted with a laugh. “Luca mentioned they were looking for someone, and I suggested you. You’re the best person for the job, Em.”

Emily bit her lip, unsure. “Are you sure this isn’t just a favor?”

“Absolutely not,” Xander said firmly. “You’ve got the talent, and they need someone who can deliver. Luca wouldn’t have reached out if he didn’t think you were the right fit.”

His words reassured her, and after a deep breath, she responded to Luca’s email, accepting the opportunity.

The following week, Emily found herself walking into the sleek offices of Xander and Luca’s company. The modern decor and bustling energy of the place intimidated her slightly, but she pushed those feelings aside, determined to make a good impression.

Luca met her in the lobby, greeting her with his usual warm smile.

“Emily,” he said, shaking her hand. “Thanks for coming in. I know this is a bit different from what you’re used to, but I think you’ll do great.”

“Thank you for thinking of me,” Emily replied, her nerves easing slightly under his reassuring gaze.

He led her to a conference room where Xander and a few other team members were waiting. They introduced themselves and began explaining the project.

The company wanted to create a series of illustrations that captured their brand’s essence—dynamic, innovative, and approachable. They also needed Emily to design several visual elements for the website, such as banners, icons, and backgrounds.

As the meeting progressed, Emily found herself growing more confident. She asked questions, sketched rough ideas, and shared her thoughts on how to make their vision come to life.

By the end of the meeting, she had a clear sense of direction and a newfound excitement for the project.

Back at her home studio, Emily got to work, immersing herself in the creative process. Her days were filled with sketches, color palettes, and brainstorming sessions.

Luca became her main point of contact for the project, and they communicated frequently to discuss ideas and progress. Their conversations often veered off-topic, and Emily found herself looking forward to their chats.

One evening, after sending over a draft of her first illustration, Luca called her.

“This is incredible, Emily,” he said, his voice full of genuine admiration. “You’ve captured exactly what we were looking for.”

Emily felt a flush of pride. “I’m glad you like it. I was worried it wouldn’t be what you had in mind.”

“Not at all,” Luca assured her. “You’re doing amazing work. We’re lucky to have you on this project.”

His words meant more to her than she cared to admit.

As the weeks went by, Emily threw herself into the project, determined to deliver her best work. She poured her emotions into each piece, using her art as a way to express not just the company’s vision, but also her own journey of resilience and rediscovery.

During a progress meeting at the office, one of the team members commented on the emotional depth of her illustrations.

“There’s something really unique about your work, Emily,” they said. “It’s not just visually stunning—it feels personal.”

Emily hesitated, unsure how to respond.

“That’s because it is,” Luca interjected, smiling at her. “Emily’s work reflects who she is. That’s what makes it so impactful.”

The room murmured in agreement, and Emily felt a mix of pride and vulnerability.

As the project neared completion, Luca invited Emily to join him and Xander for lunch at a nearby cafe.

“You deserve a break,” he told her when she hesitated.

The three of them sat on the patio, enjoying the crisp spring air. Xander teased Emily about her newfound “celebrity status” in the office, while Luca chimed in with stories of how impressed everyone was with her work.

“You’re making quite the name for yourself,” Luca said, raising his coffee cup in a mock toast.

Emily laughed, feeling a warmth in her chest that had nothing to do with the coffee.

“Thank you,” she said, her voice soft. “For everything. I don’t think I’d have had the courage to take this step without your support.”

“You’ve had it in you all along,” Luca replied, his eyes meeting hers. “We just gave you the opportunity to show it.”

The project’s final presentation was a success. Emily’s artwork was met with widespread praise, and the team couldn’t stop complimenting her talent and professionalism.

As they celebrated in the office, Xander pulled Emily aside.

“I’m proud of you, Em,” he said, his voice full of emotion. “You’ve come so far.”

“Thanks, Xander,” she said, hugging him tightly. “I couldn’t have done it without you.”

Luca joined them, holding two glasses of sparkling cider. He handed one to Emily, clinking his glass against hers.

“To new beginnings,” he said, smiling.

“To new beginnings,” Emily echoed, feeling a sense of accomplishment and hope for the future.

That evening, back in her studio, Emily reflected on the journey that had brought her here. She thought about the years she had spent suppressing her dreams, the pain of her past, and the strength it had taken to start over.

Her phone buzzed with a message from Luca: "Congratulations again, Emily. You’re amazing, and you deserve all the success in the world.”

She smiled, typing back: "Thank you, Luca. For everything.”

As she set her phone down and picked up her paintbrush, Emily felt a sense of peace. She was finally living the life she had always dreamed of, and she couldn’t wait to see where it would take her next.