Chapter 368
Simon had arrived!
The crowd stood on alert upon hearing Marcus' words, and they all turned their attention toward the elderly man.
"I heard that First Academy has a student with exceptional artistic talent, so | wanted to cand take a look for
myself."
Simon had a kind and approachable temperament, with none of the arrogance often seen in renowned experts.
His status as a legend in Havaria's traditional painting world was not just due to his superb painting skills but
also closely tied to his humble and noble character.
"Mr. Carter, you flatter us. Please, take a closer look," Marcus gushed. He smiled and glanced at Rachel as he
introduced her. "This young lady is the one who drew this piece. This is Rachel Smith, a freshman at our
academy."
"I've long admired your work. It's an honor to have the opportunity to meet you today. I'm still lacking in skills. |
still have much to learn from senior artists like you." Rachel held her breath, trying hard to maintain a proud
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtsmile as she bowed slightly to Simon.
Simon laughed and glanced at Rachel. With a light smile on his face, he praised, "You're talented but modest.
Very good!"
Simon was about to comment, but the moment he laid eyes on the drawing, his eyes widened in surprise. "This
sketch... Young lady, did you draw this?"
"Y-Yes, | did!" Rachel raised her voice and replied diffidently while sneaking a glance at Yolanda.
"It is indeed rare for someone to have such skill at such a young age. If I'm not mistaken, you were imitating the
technique of the traditional painting master, Jess Harrington?"
"Uh... yes..." Rachel had no idea who Simon was referring to, but she nodded stiffly.
"However, | feel that your work... has a unique personal style," Simon said after sdeliberation.
Originally, he was going to say that this drawing was even better than Jess' work. That was the most astonishing
part. For a young girl not yet in her 20s to be able to replicate the essence of Jess' artworks-and to surpass them
in maturity-this was exceptional talent granted by the heavens.
But since Jess was an exceptionally talented painter in Havaria's traditional art world, saying that openly would
be disrespectful.
Still, Simon felt glad. After all, with more young talents like Rachel, the future of Havaria's traditional painting
scene would be vibrant and diverse.
"My goodness, she's incredible! Even Simon says she has a unique style."
"She's truly remarkable!"
"If only my child had half her talent."
The surrounding crowd was filled with admiration upon hearing Simon's praise. They marveled at how First
Academy continued to produce such outstanding talent. Meanwhile, the other students looked at Rachel with
envy.
After hearing all these compliments, Rachel felt a bit giddy as everyone's praises got to her head. She noticed
that Yolanda, standing amidst the crowd, still hadn't made any move to expose her.
Rachel thought that Yolanda was refraining from saying anything because no one would believe her if she could
not produce any evidence. Therefore, Rachel beceven more self-assured.
"You're too kind, Mr. Carter. | only started drawing in middle school, so my skills are still quite immature. But I will
continue to work hard and live up to your expectations," Rachel said.
She then approached Simon with a notebook. "I've always admired your work, Mr. Carter. Could you sign my
notebook?"
"Wait a moment..." Simon continued studying the drawing in front of him, but the frown on his face gradually
deepened.
"Your nis Rachel, right?" He looked at Rachel with an odd expression that was mixed with a hint of
dissatisfaction.
"Yes, I'm Rachel." Rachel didn't understand what was happening and looked confused.
"Then why did you sign someone else's non your own artwork?" Simon questioned.