Once upon a time, she had wanted so much.
For love, she had chosen to step back from the fast lane.
Now, with her days quietly ticking away, Jessica found herself afraid to hope for more.
She gave a helpless smile, then used sign language to express her thoughts.
"Jessica says she doesn't have the energy to show her work to more people right now, but if someone is interested, she can still design something for them."
Latonia beamed. "That's wonderful. I've had a few friends over recently—they all asked about my window decorations and wall art, wanted to know where I got them. One of these days, I'll introduce you. You could make a little extra money."
"Mom." Herbert cut her off.
Jessica was married to Timothy, after all.
"Jessica's work is beautiful. It's her passion—she's not doing it for the money."
"Herbert, that's not the right way to look at it. Good things have value. Jessica's done so much for me; of course I should pay her. And if my friends all start asking for her work, she'll be run ragged if she isn't paid for her time."
After speaking, Latonia reached for Jessica's hand, her tone gentle. "If you need to take care of your husband and child and don't have much spare time, you could make a few pieces in advance. I'll cover your expenses if you ever want to put on an exhibit."
Looking at the paper-cut portrait, Latonia thought Jessica's work was more than mere craft. It was art.
And art, by its nature, deserved to be seen and appreciated.
Jessica hurried to sign again.
Herbert translated, "Mom, don't push Jessica. She says she's really pressed for time and doesn't have the energy for an exhibit. She can only make a few pieces here and there."
Latonia felt a pang of regret. Skills like Jessica's were rare enough—and work at this level, rarer still.
Latonia sighed. "Does your husband never help at home? Is that why you're always so busy?"
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Goodbye, Mr. Regret