Canvas Of The Heart

Sophia Lynns gripped a letter in her two hands, gazing intently at it. As her mind raced, the words became hazy.

An art commission.

An actual one. Not the odd murals she'd created to make ends meet, or the hesitant offers from tiny galleries.

It was a big one. No, this was enormous. The first thing that shocked her was the name at the bottom of the letter: Lucas Hawke.

She was startled out of her reverie as her phone buzzed on the messy desk. She grabbed it up and spoke in a tremulous voice. "Hello?"

A professional, clipped voice said, "This is Laura Bennett, Mr. Hawke's secretary. Ms. Lynns, Mr. Hawke is excited to talk about a private commission after being pleased with your portfolio. He wants to meet you at his company tomorrow."

Sophia gulped forcefully, her thoughts racing. "Tomorrow? Already? Isn't that too soon?"

Laura remarked impatiently, "Mr. Hawke values efficiency. May I confirm the meeting?"

Sophia paused, surveying her cramped, disorganized workspace. Her bank account balance was ridiculous, her fridge was almost empty, and her rent was past due. This was what she needed.

"Yes," she answered, trying to steady her voice. "I'll be there."

"All right. I will email you the information. And Ms. Lynns?"

"Yes?" Sophia answered raising a brow.

"Be on time. Mr Hawke doesn't tolerate lateness." Laura added, her tone maintaining the professional standard.

Before Sophia could reply, the line died. Her chest constricted as she gazed at her phone.

Lucas Hawke. The multi billionaire businessman whose name was a byword for strength, controversy, and secrecy.

What kind of artwork could he possibly desire from an unknown artist like her when he probably has connections to the most famous artists around the world?

Sophia thought hard about it but made no headway. She eventually gave up on her thoughts.

Maybe Fortune had decided to smile at her just like it smiled at her father, the well-known artist Lynns, and allowed her a platform to show her talent and what she was capable of doing as an artist.

************************************************

The following morning, Sophia felt quite little as she stood in Hawke Enterprises' sparkling lobby.

Her studio's chipped paint and creaking floors were in sharp contrast to the building's gleaming marble floors and tall glass walls, which shouted wealth and sophistication.

She walked up to the receptionist, adjusting her blazer in the hopes that it would conceal her nerves. Despite the pounding in her chest, she spoke steadily, "I'm here to see Mr. Hawke."

The receptionist was typing rapidly on her keyboard, without looking up. "What's your name?"

"Sophia Lynns." The woman nodded and pointed to the elevators after a brief pause.

"The top floor. There, his secretary will greet you."

The low buzz of gentle classical music did little to calm her jangled nerves throughout the seemingly endless elevator ride.

She was met by a stunning woman wearing a fitted suit when the doors were opened. The woman said in a tone as sharp as her appearance, "Ms. Lynns?"

"Yes," Sophia replied.

"I'm Laura Bennett; I'm Mr. Hawke's secretary. Please, come with me."

She followed Laura along a hallway with floor-to-ceiling windows that provided an amazing view of the city but Sophia was so focused on the enormous oak door at the end of the hall that she hardly noticed.

Laura pushed the door open after knocking once. "Ms. Lynns is here, Mr. Hawke."

Breathing heavily, Sophia entered. She marveled at the spacious and uncluttered office with its modern furnishings and a full wall of glass windows that let in plenty of natural light.

Lucas Hawke was standing behind a big, bulky desk.

As she went in, he turned, and Sophia momentarily lost her ability to breathe. He had dark, well-groomed hair, eyes so sharply gray they appeared to stare right through her, and he was taller than she had anticipated.

She felt completely out of place since his fitted suit suited him like a second skin and he exuded an effortless dominance. If there was a more stunning man alive, Sophia wouldn't have met him.

She immediately started wondering how cool he'd look in casual wear if he was so dashing in a formal suit.

Sophia subtly shakes her head to regain control of her thoughts and take her eyes off the gorgeous Mr Hawke before she is caught staring.

"Ms. Lynns," he stated in a firm yet hushed voice. "I appreciate you coming."

Sophia pushed herself forward and held out her hand. "I'm honored to meet you, Mr. Hawke." His touch was warm, his handshake solid.

"Call me Lucas, please. This is not a board meeting."

Sophia smiled politely and sat in the chair he indicated, wiping her clammy palms against her skirt in an unobtrusive manner.

Lucas reclined in his chair, his eyes looking directly at her. He started, "I've looked over your portfolio. I was instantly drawn to your work. With each brushstroke, you can convey a tale and capture unadulterated emotion."

Surprised by the compliment, Sophia blinked. "Thank you. That is very significant."

Lucas went on, "I want you to make me something special. A composition that discusses resilience, strength, and success."

Sophia's curiosity flickered as she tilted her head. "May I ask, Why me? I assume there are many more skilled artists out there who could take on a project like this."

A slight smile curved Lucas's lips. "Yes, there are. But being an artist myself, although not a professional one, I know exactly what I need in an artwork. Your work has a rare depth. It seems raw and .......intimate."

Sophia paused, uncertain of how to react.

His remarks seemed almost too personal, as though he had caught glimpses of aspects of her that she had not intended to share.

"This project will be demanding," Lucas continued, adopting a more formal tone. "The time frame is six weeks, and I will require frequent updates. However, I promise that the pay will be substantial."

Six weeks? She agreed, but there wasn't much time for a piece of the scale he appeared to imagine. "I can do it."

"That's very good." He stated, looking directly into her gray eyes. "Because this endeavor will transform everything-for us both."

His comments caused Sophia's breath to catch.

Lucas got up, which indicated an end to the meeting before she could ask him what he meant. He said, "I'll have Laura email you the information. Ms. Lynns, I'm excited to see what you produce."

Her thoughts were racing as she exited his office, down to the lobby. When he said "change everything," what did he mean? And why did she think she had just accepted a commission for more than just a piece of art?

Sophia was astounded by the sheer wealth that greeted her as she exited the sleek black vehicle and entered Lucas Hawke's estate's cobblestone driveway.

With a towering front that combined modern luxury with old-world elegance, the vast estate appeared like something from a novel.

Massive windows were enclosed by elaborate stonework, and ivy coiled around the building's borders as if nature itself were bowing to its grandeur.

Laura broke Sophia's trance with her usual professional tone, saying, "Right this way, Ms. Lynns."

Following Laura, Sophia ascended the stone stairs to the imposing double doors, whose elaborate carvings alluded to tales of strength and resiliency, just the concept Lucas had outlined for the commission.

Was he a freak for anything, strength, and power?

The doors silently opened to show an entrance so opulent it made her small studio seem ridiculous.

A beautifully curved staircase spiraled up to a second floor, and a crystal chandelier softly illuminated the marble floor. Everything in the room appeared to have been chosen carefully, from the thick velvet drapes that framed the windows to the abstract sculptures on pedestals.

"Come with me please," Laura said as she guided Sophia along a corridor adorned with paintings and framed photos. As they strolled, Sophia's eyes darted to the artwork, unable to contain her admiration for the sculptures.

Many of them were dark, with light dominated by shadows and unfiltered emotion leaking from each brush stroke.

She felt a shudder run up her spine because they were so eerily lovely.

Laura noticed her lingering and said, "Mr. Hawke has a large collection. He appreciates art that conveys a narrative, particularly when that narrative contains a hint of....intensity."

Sophia gave a nod but remained silent. The paintings unnerved her in a manner she couldn't understand, especially their sharp contrasts and jagged lines. It was as if they were whispering things she wasn't supposed to hear.

Finally, they reached a large sitting room with floor-to-ceiling windows that provided a stunning view of the estate's surroundings.

Despite wearing a fitted sweater and slacks today, Lucas maintained his dominating posture while standing close to a grand piano. His green eyes met hers as he said, "Ms. Lynns. I hope the drive wasn't too bad."

Sophia answered, "No, it was okay, thank you," even though she didn't feel too well. She was still getting used to the overwhelming majesty of her surroundings.

"You're welcome." He pointed to a little table that had been set up with pastries and coffee. "Please sit down."

Feeling like an imposter in the opulence, Sophia hesitated before settling into one of the soft chairs.

Sitting across from her, Lucas's focused gaze made it difficult to unwind. With a calm yet forceful tone, he remarked, "I wanted to show you the space where your piece will be displayed. I think that being aware of your surroundings is essential to your creative process."

"That would be beneficial," Sophia remarked, appreciating the chance to change the subject to something she was familiar with: art.

But instead of continuing, he kept gazing at her in a kind of way that made her feel .....seen, wanted. The air seemed to stop for a second as their eyes met. His voice was quieter now, almost inquisitive, as he inquired, "Let me ask, what inspires you, Miss Lynns?"

She was surprised by the question. Blinking repeatedly, she hesitated, then answered, "I....I guess it's everything. Life, emotions, experiences....It's the stuff I can't speak aloud at times. They infiltrate my work somehow."

Lucas looked straight ahead as he nodded. "That honesty is what sets you apart. Most people hide behind perfection, yet your art celebrates imperfection. It's raw. Real."

His words struck a chord deep within her, and for a moment, she forgot where she was. She forgot his identity. The only thing she could see was the man seated across from her, staring at her through all the walls she had constructed to keep her growing attachment in check.

The moment was interrupted by his phone ringing out on the table. Clearing his throat, he excused himself to take the call.

Afterwards, he straightened, his businesslike manner returning to its proper position. With a sharper tone now, he said, "Never doubt yourself Miss Lynns. I have a feeling you underestimate your own abilities."

His voice was so earnest that she was momentarily stunned.

Unable to think of anything to say, she simply nodded.

Lucas's mouth quirked in what might have been a smile. "Let's stop wasting time." He got up, and he took Sophia farther inside the mansion.

More paintings, sculptures, and even a few digital pieces were passed by; they were all somber, unvarnished, and full of emotion.

She muttered, "This is amazing," as she continued to examine a particularly striking fragment of a figure fading into darkness.

Lucas stopped next to her, his face unreadable. "You have a good eye. It is one of my favorites. The artist's approach to dealing with pain was distinct. I respect that."

The spark of something in his eyes caught Sophia's attention; was it vulnerability? She was unable to tell.

They kept going until they came to a large space that resembled a gallery, with high ceilings and a simple design that highlighted the walls.

With a gentle illumination, one blank area was visible. Lucas stated in a respectful tone, "This is where your piece will go."

Sophia took a step forward, envisioning her design there. Despite the pressure and tremendous strain, she couldn't help but like the challenge. "It's perfect," she said quietly.

After staring at her for a while, Lucas pointed to a different door. "I would like you to see more."

Sophia followed him curiously into a smaller, darkened room. With painted walls and lower ceilings, it was cozier.

These artworks were more intimate here, as if they contained fragments of the artist's soul, than the ones she had previously seen. She moved around them, tracing the brushstrokes with itchy fingers.

She was particularly drawn to a painting that showed a lone individual standing on the shore in a stormy seascape, their face hidden but their posture laden with grief.

Her voice was hardly audible when she uttered, "These are stunning."

"They belong to a private collection," Lucas stated in a hushed tone. "Very few individuals see these."

Being a part of such a private aspect of his life made Sophia feel a peculiar mixture of thankfulness and uneasiness.

Then she noticed it.

Her heart stopped when she saw the painting hanging in a dark nook at the far end of the room. The woman in the portrait had a reserved face but a recognizable vulnerability in her eyes.

Every detail was painstakingly drawn, and the brush work was outstanding. Sophia stepped forward, her heart pounding. It seemed to her as if she was the woman depicted in the picture. At least it bore a striking resemblance to her.

Her breath caught as she looked for the artist's autograph in the canvas's lower corner.

But it was only a date, nothing more. Six years ago.

Her voice trembled as she turned to Lucas. "Who did this painting?"

He remained silent for a minute, staring at the portrait. Then he said slowly, "That's a story for another time," without turning to face her.

The following morning, Sophia arrived at the estate again and was ushered into the Lucas's private library. She sat with a sketchpad perched on her lap, experiencing a peculiar mixture of anxiety and excitement.

Lucas had convened a meeting to go over the commission's guidelines. Even in quiet, his attention was evident as he observed her honing a rough draft of the composition.

Lucas broke the silence with a deep voice, "Do not forget, I need this to speak of triumph. But it should also reflect the suffering that comes before it. Each stroke needs to feel deserving." His storm-gray eyes met Sophia's as she looked up.

With caution, she remarked, "That's a tall order. However, I believe I know what you're after."

"I hope so." Lucas steepled his fingers and relaxed back in his chair. I'm not simply interested in art, Ms. Lynns. This has to do with legacy. You're crafting a narrative that will last beyond both our lifetimes, not just a fragment."

With his words weighing down on her, Sophia paused. "I understand the seriousness of this, but I'll need clear boundaries if this is going to work."

A small smile that barely reached Lucas's eyes curled his lips. His tone was strangely light as he stated, "Boundaries are important. But so also is initiative. I'll arrange a small studio at the estate where you'll always be inspired by the art pieces, as well as everything you need to work. It's yours to use whenever you want. But..."

His eyes met hers with a disturbing intensity as he leaned forward. "There is one thing you must comprehend. "I value honesty. Tell me if you think something isn't working. Express any doubts you may have. I don't tolerate pretense."

Uncertain of how to react, Sophia nodded hesitantly. "Alright. In exchange, I will require uninterrupted space to work and at my own pace."

Lucas grinned more broadly, but he still sounded on edge. "Obviously. However, Ms. Lynns, don't confuse distance with space. I will be involved at every stage of the process."

Sophia heaved a sigh but nodded curtly. There didn't seem to be a way to get around this man. She didn't blame though, people like him have are used to having things done their way.

Pressing a bell on the glassy table in front of him, Sophia blinked, wondering why he did it, but a knock soon sounded at the door and middle aged woman entered, bowing deeply after closing the door behind her. "You called, Mr Hawke?"

"Yes Donna," he replied, then turned to face Sophia. "My house keeper will take you to the studio I mentioned, where you can work here. You might as well take a look around too."

Sophia nodded and stood, taking the cue to leave.

She ended up exploring the expansive grounds of the house after seeing the secluded space Lucas talked about.

The breeze brought a subtle lavender aroma, and the air was crisp. She wanted a respite from Lucas's intensity, an opportunity to collect her thoughts and digest the exchange.

She wondered why he had such a firm hold on her. Was it simply because he was good-looking? Or because of his commanding posture? Either way, she knew better than to mix business with pleasure or allow her emotions take the best of her.

The buzzing sound of her phone interrupted her thoughts. Pulling it from her pocket, she scowled at the name displayed on the screen.

Shirley Westbrook.

Sophia paused, her thumb resting on the response button.

She hadn't spoken to her former mentor in almost six years, and their parting had not been cordial.

Despite being the most important figure in her career, after her father, Shirley had betrayed her, broke her trust for reasons best known to her. But whatever her reasons were, her actions almost ruined Sophia's career.

Sophia answered the call against her better judgment. "Shirley," she said in a tone that was colder than she meant.

"Sophia." Despite Shirley's beautiful voice, there was a sense of urgency in it. "I didn't think you would answer."

"Well, i nearly didn't," Sophia acknowledged. "Why are you calling Shirley? What do you want?"

Shirley remarked, "I heard about your new commission. Lucas Hawke, isn't it?"

Sophia's chest tightened. "How are you aware of that?"

"I have my ways," Shirley said in a mysterious tone. "Listen, I must caution you. Lucas Hawke poses a threat. He is a dangerous man."

Sophia tensed. "Dangerous? How?"

Shirley let out a sigh. "His reputation comes before him, Sophia. You probably don't know because you're all about work and doesn't socialize. There is a history of him being manipulative. You don't know him for who he really is."

Even though the words made Sophia shudder, she made herself remain composed. "I believe I am capable of making my own decisions, Shirley. I already know that I can't rely on your advice."

With her customary poise wavering, Shirley yelled, "This isn't about me. It concerns you. I don't want you to suffer harm once more."

Sophia tightened her mouth. "That should sound laughable even to your own ears Shirley!" Sophia's voice rose a pitch, "The one who harmed me was you! But you called after all these years sprouting gibberish about a project that's supposed to be my big break. I do not need saving, okay? Especially not from you."

Shirley was quiet for a while, and her voice was quieter when she spoke again. "Just exercise caution, Sophia. Keep your eyes open. That is all I'm requesting."

Sophia was about to retort when the line died.

Breathing out frustratingly, Sophia returned to the studio Lucas had prepared for her.

As she sat looking around the space, she couldn't take her mind off Shirley's words.

The cozy room looked beautiful, filled with natural light and high-quality supplies, but it felt like a gilded cage.

She glanced at the sketches spread out on the table, her fingers curving the edges, itching to work, but her mind was too cluttered to be of any use.

'Dangerous. Manipulative. Not who you think he is.'

The door creaked open, and Sophia looked up to see Lucas standing there, his presence filling the space.

His voice was low, tinged with ambiguity as he remarked, "You're still here."

Shifting in the chair and trying not to read special meaning to his ambiguous remark, she replied, "I needed to get some work done," though her hands were still idle.

Lucas stepped closer, his gaze drifting to the sketches. "I don't see anything here."

"I'm just getting started," she admitted.

He studied her for a moment, his expression unreadable. "Something's bothering you."

Sophia hesitated. "I got a call from someone earlier. Someone who probably knew you."

Lucas's eyes darkened slightly, but his voice remained calm. "And what did they say?"

"They warned me about you," she said, watching him carefully.

Lucas didn't flinch. Instead, he walked around the table, smiling faintly, though it lacked warmth. "Most people often fear what they don't understand. Did you believe them?"

"I don't know what to believe and I don't find the source trustworthy." Sophia admitted, her honesty surprising even herself.

Lucas stopped walking, he stepped closer, his voice dropping to a near-whisper. "Then let me make one thing clear, Sophia. I can be a lot of things, but I am never untruthful. You'll see that soon enough."

His words hung in the air, heavy with meaning, and Sophia's pulse quickened, wondering what to make of it.

And did he just call her by her first name? With that deep voice. Oh...this man will probably be the death of her. Or maybe her emotions will.

And with all this information about him being dangerous, manipulative and the likes, what was she supposed to do?

As Lucas turned and left the studio, Shirley's voice echoed in her mind.

"He's not who you think he is."