Chapter 24

Nora's words hit Victoria like a ton of bricks, and the tears she'd been holding back finally spilled over.

"Mom, how can you do this to me? You never care about the pain I've been through; all you care about is the money I bring home. Do whatever you want, but I'd rather die than make up with Ella. Figure it out yourself!" She slammed the phone down.

Just then, Wendy walked over, handed Victoria some tissues, and asked, "Victoria, what's wrong?"

Victoria wiped her tears and forced a smile. "Oh, it's nothing, just a little fight with my mom. I must look so silly."

Wendy put a comforting hand on her shoulder and said softly, "I don't think that at all. My family..."

Her voice trailed off, and she struggled to continue. "Just know I'm here for you. If you ever need anything, just ask."

Victoria was touched and said, "Thanks, Wendy."

Neither of them felt like shopping anymore, so after finishing their meal, they went their separate ways.

When Victoria got home, she found a letter at her door. It was a pass to the University of Aesthetics Shine sent by Samuel. Victoria was thrilled, and her earlier gloom lifted a bit.

Just then, Samuel texted her, saying there was a public lecture at the University of Aesthetics Shine the next morning and asked if she wanted to go. Of course, Victoria agreed right away.

The next morning, she got up early, got ready, and hurried to the University of Aesthetics Shine.

As she stepped onto the campus, it reminded her of the day she went to Imagination Realm University abroad last year, though she felt completely different now.

Imagination Realm University, renowned for its rich history and innovative teaching methods, had been a transformative experience for Victoria, even though she was there for less than half a year. The teachers encouraged students to experiment with various artistic styles and techniques.

When she had to leave because of family issues, the teachers and students didn't want her to go and even offered her a scholarship to stay. Despite her reluctance, Victoria couldn't ignore her family's needs, so she dropped out and went back home.

The University of Aesthetics Shine combined the elegance of traditional architecture with modern design. Its teaching philosophy emphasized preserving and innovating traditional culture while incorporating advanced international artistic ideas. It was on par with top schools abroad.

Victoria found a seat in a corner and overheard the girls in front of her chatting excitedly.

"Today is Professor Brown's public lecture. I've been looking forward to this for so long!" said a girl with glasses, her face lit up with excitement.

"Yeah, Professor Brown is the youngest professor here. I heard he comes from an artistic family, with both parents being famous artists. No wonder he's so talented," another short-haired girl chimed in.

"His works have won many awards both here and abroad. It's really impressive," a tall boy nodded in agreement.

"And he's super handsome! Every time he gives a lecture, the room is packed. Lots of girls come just to see him," the girl with glasses teased with a grin.

"Do you think the emerging artist Joshua could be Professor Brown? I heard one of his paintings can sell for tens of thousands, even hundreds of thousands of dollars," the short-haired girl exclaimed, then shook her head. "No way. If Professor Brown were Joshua, why would he hide his identity? He could just sell his paintings under his own name. There's no need to be so secretive."

"Right!" The girl with glasses seemed to have an epiphany.

Just then, there was a sudden commotion on the stage.

"Professor Brown is here." The short-haired girl pointed excitedly at the steps, her eyes sparkling.

Victoria looked towards the steps and saw Samuel walking in casually.

Today, he was wearing a light gray shirt with black trousers and white casual shoes, looking both gentle and elegant, refined and dashing. His posture was upright, his features clear, and his every move exuded the elegance and composure of an artist.

He stood at the podium, his expression calm as he glanced around, a slight smile playing on his lips.

"Hello, everyone. I'm Samuel. Today, I'll be giving a brief talk on the expressiveness of painting." Samuel's steady and magnetic voice echoed in the classroom, making everyone quiet down.

He continued, "The expressiveness of painting refers to the artist's ability to convey their inner emotions, thoughts, and creativity to the audience through various painting elements and techniques. Can anyone give an example of how you can feel the expressiveness of a painting?"

A student raised their hand and answered, "I think color can do that. For example, a painting with bright colors might give a strong emotional impact."

Samuel smiled and nodded. "Very good. Does anyone else have a different perspective?"

Another student stood up and said, "I think the use of lines is also important. Different lines can convey different emotions. For instance, straight lines might give a sense of stability, while curves are softer and more dynamic."

Samuel looked at the students appreciatively and said, "You all have very good points. Now, let's think deeper about what other factors can enhance the expressiveness of a painting."

At this moment, Samuel's gaze swept toward the corner of the classroom and landed on Victoria. He said, "The girl in the corner, could you answer?"

Victoria had thought Samuel hadn't seen her, but now he was looking directly at her, waiting for her answer.

She quickly stood up, feeling a bit nervous yet excited, and answered, "I believe composition also greatly affects the expressiveness of a painting. A well-thought-out composition can guide the viewer's eye, highlight the focal points, and enhance the rhythm and harmony of the piece. The artist's brushwork can also convey different emotions and atmospheres."

After answering, Victoria nervously awaited Samuel's evaluation.

Samuel's smile widened slightly. "Excellent. Your answer is comprehensive and insightful." With that, he led the class in an enthusiastic round of applause for Victoria.

Victoria's face flushed, and she felt a sense of joy and pride she hadn't experienced in a long time.

For the rest of the lecture, Samuel explained in detail how to better use various techniques to express emotions.

Victoria listened intently, taking notes and occasionally asking questions. After the class ended, Victoria packed her things and was about to leave with the other students when Samuel called out to her, "Victoria, could you stay for a moment?"