CAHPTER 40

Alicia quietly smiled as she heard what Asher said. Her heart raced at Asher's awkwardness. Alicia felt happy but also confused about what to do.

"Asher, are you okay?" Alicia asked softly, trying to divert attention from Asher's nervousness.

"Ah, yes, I'm fine. It's just... I was a bit surprised by your painting. It's really beautiful," Asher replied, a bit calmer but still with a hint of nervousness in his voice.

Alicia approached Asher and looked at her painting. "Thank you. I'm glad someone likes my painting. But, I prefer honest opinions because I'm not used to painting."

Asher felt his heart beat faster. He swallowed and tried to regulate his breathing. "Really? But your painting is truly beautiful. You painted cherry blossoms, right?" Asher looked at Alicia's canvas. There he saw the strokes of a cherry blossom tree with beautiful pink colors.

"You're right. I like flowers."

Asher smiled slightly, following Alicia as she led him to a shaded area with a wooden table and chairs.