The Alpha's Runaway Queen

Chapter 18 - Sean

Jasmine POV

It was a bright, sunny Saturday, and for once, I had an off day with no commitments, no pressing deadlines, and no obligations. My friends had been persistent about setting me up on various group dates and double dates, but despite their best efforts, nothing significant ever came of it. The guys were nice, polite, and engaging, but I felt no spark. All I could offer them was friendship, and it seemed unfair to expect more when my heart wasn’t in it.

I decided to spend my day at the mall, shopping for a few things I needed. After picking up some essentials, I found myself wandering aimlessly, enjoying the freedom of having no schedule. As I rounded a corner, I noticed an art exhibit taking place. Vibrant paintings were hung from wall to wall, each one capturing a different aspect of nature in vivid detail. As someone who had always appreciated art, I was drawn in immediately.

I wandered around the exhibit, admiring the beauty and skill evident in each piece. The colors seemed to leap off the canvas, drawing me into scenes of serene landscapes, bustling forests, and tranquil beaches. I was so absorbed in the artwork that I didn’t notice the figure standing behind me until he cleared his throat.

Startled, I quickly stepped to the side, thinking I was blocking his view. “Oh, I’m sorry,” I apologized. “I didn’t realize I was in your way.”

The man chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “No need to apologize,” he said warmly. “I wasn’t trying to get by. I just wanted to say hello.”

I turned to face him fully, taking in his kind smile and the air of confidence he carried. “Hello,” I replied, a bit embarrassed. “I’m Jasmine.”

“Pleased to meet you, Jasmine. I’m Sean Patterson,” he introduced himself, extending a hand. “I’m the artist behind these paintings.”

My eyes widened in surprise. “Wow, it’s an honor to meet you. Your work is incredible. The way you capture nature is just…breathtaking.”

Sean’s smile widened, and I could see the pride in his eyes. “Thank you. It means a lot to hear that. I always hope to connect with people through my art.”

“You certainly have,” I said, gesturing to a particularly stunning painting of a waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear pool. “This one, especially. The colors are so alive. It feels like I could step right into it.”

He followed my gaze and nodded appreciatively. “That one is a personal favorite of mine. I’m glad you like it.”

We stood there for a moment, admiring the painting together. I also took the time to observe him.

Sean Patterson was a striking man. He looked rugged like he had spent much time outdoors. He stood tall and lean, his posture relaxed and yet carried the air of confidence. His dark, wavy hair fell just past his ears, tucked behind one ear in a casual, absent-minded way. His eyes, a deep, soulful green, seemed to be the color of the fields he captured on canvas.

His hands, I also noticed, looked strong and gentle, marked with paint stains. They spoke of countless hours spent painting beauty on blank canvases. His facial features were chiseled, with high cheekbones.

I was so absorbed in observing him that I was caught unaware of what he was saying when he turned to me with a thought expression.

“I’m sorry. What is it again?” I asked, embarrassed for the second time around.

Sean chuckled. “I have more pieces in my studio, if you’re interested. It’s not far from here, and I’d be happy to show you around.”

I hesitated for a moment, weighing my options. I had no other plans for the day, and the idea of seeing more of Sean’s work was intriguing. Plus, he seemed genuine and kind. “Sure, I’d love to,” I said finally.

“Great,” Sean replied. “Let me just inform my assistant, and we can head over.”

As we left the mall and walked to his studio, we chatted easily. Sean told me about his journey as an artist, the inspiration he drew from nature, and the challenges he faced in bringing his visions to life. I shared a bit about my journey through medical school, and my passion for helping people.

“Oh, wow! Dr. Jasmine in the house!” he exclaimed.

Laughing at his silliness, I found it surprising how comfortable I felt with him as if we had known each other for much longer.

When we arrived at his studio, I was taken aback by the sheer number of paintings and sketches lining the walls. Each piece was a testament to Sean’s talent and dedication. He led me through the space, explaining the story behind each work, his eyes lighting up with enthusiasm.

“Is there anything wrong?” he asked suddenly. Sean caught me sniffing.

I caught the scent of something that brought me back to a memory I never wanted to visit again.

“Oh, I’m sorry. Is it burnt wood? You should be very careful with fire. You have a lot of wonderful pieces here.” I waved to the paintings around us.

“Burnt wood? Oh, it must be the incense from last night. It’s from the other room,” he said, pointing to a closed door. “Don’t worry. I got it covered.” Sean didn’t elaborate further, and I was glad he didn’t speak about it anymore. The incense was in a closed room, and I shouldn’t be smelling the scent! He might think I was weird for being able to do so!

We stepped in front of another painting. “This one,” pointed to a painting of a lush forest bathed in golden sunlight, “was inspired by a hiking trip I took last year. The light filtering through the trees was magical, and I wanted to capture that moment forever.”

“It’s beautiful,” I said. “You have a way of making nature come alive on the canvas.”

“Thank you,” Sean replied. “It’s my way of sharing the beauty I see in the world. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget how much there is to appreciate.”

We spent hours in the studio, lost in conversation and surrounded by art. It was one of the most enjoyable afternoons I had spent in a long time. As the sun began to set, Sean and I walked back to the mall.

“Thank you for today, Sean,” I said sincerely. “I had a wonderful time.”

“The pleasure was all mine,” he replied. “I’m glad you enjoyed it. Maybe we can do this again sometime?”

“I’d like that,” I said with a smile. “I’ll definitely be back for more art.”

As we parted ways, I felt a sense of contentment. Meeting Sean and experiencing his world had been a welcome break from my usual routine.

The following weeks were a blur of work and social gatherings. My friends continued to set me up on dates, but none of them seemed to compare to the easy companionship I had felt with Sean. Our paths crossed several more times at the mall and other art exhibits, and each encounter was as pleasant as the first.

One evening, as I sat in my apartment, admiring the waterfall painting of Sean on my wall, Bridget spoke up in my mind. “You seem happier, Jasmine. More at ease.”

“I guess I am,” I admitted. “It’s been nice to meet new people and try new things. It helps me keep my mind off…other things.”

“That’s good,” Bridget said gently. “Can you remind me what Royal pack looks like?”

I was stunned at her request, wondering where the question came from. I was lost for words. If I was correct, I would think she did it on purpose. When I was taking steps to move on, she would pop up and remind me of something in the past.

“Bridge, it’s impossible for you to forget what it looks like. You’re still young,” I said, almost rolling my eyes.

“I just want to start a conversation. That waterfall reminded me of the one in Royal Pack. That’s all.” Bridget then shut herself and ignored me when I called on her.

It was the first time she was like that. I felt she was getting mad at me for stalling on going back. I was just not ready. Bridget didn’t understand, but I hoped she would.