Canvas of Shadows

6

Lucas Manning quickly apologized, and the atmosphere momentarily grew tense.

Looking around to change the subject, he mentioned, "I saw your exhibition."

"No need for pleasantries. I might be neurotic, but I'm well aware of my own limitations. I'm not particularly gifted. My debut work was my peak — a stroke of luck at the start."

"But I really liked it. Your art made me think of my mother..." Lucas confessed. "So, my visit isn't solely about the Charles Linden case. There's a personal angle too."

"Is it 'The Goddess' you're referring to?"

"How did you know?"

"'The Goddess' is my debut, my finest piece. Only extreme passion can drive me to create something worthwhile, and 'The Goddess' was born from such a state. Everything I've done in the decades since pales in comparison.

"When 'The Goddess' debuted, it stunned the art world. Many wanted to purchase it, claiming it evoked intense feelings of love."

"Love?" Lucas frowned.

"Yes. The woman in the painting looks out beyond the frame, her eyes filled with sorrow yet longing, as if reaching out to you, yearning for connection.

"Many describe her as both lascivious and pure, able to stir a protective desire, the epitome of a lover. — But it seems you have a different interpretation."

"No, it's not about romantic love, but familial," Lucas stated firmly. "The painting doesn't depict a lover but a mother; not gazing up in passion, but looking down with compassion. Her hand isn't reaching out but is extended downward; not in longing or seeking protection, but in offering, in wanting to protect."

My heart raced, the beats quickening as I pressed on, "So, your perspective is the exact opposite. While others see a figure to be possessed, you see one to be revered, hence the difference in how she's perceived. What leads you to such a contrasting view?"

Lucas spoke softly, "I can't see the woman in the painting as a lover. Because her face bears a striking resemblance to my long-lost mother. It's highly likely you painted my mother."

"Your mother? Could it really be such a coincidence?"

Lucas pondered for a moment, "I can't be certain... I want to know where you found the model for this painting, and if I can purchase it?"

"Tell me your story first."

"..."

"It's a fair exchange. You want information about Charles Linden from me; I need to know about your mother from you."

Lucas calmed himself, "Is this why you agreed to the interview?"

"Not entirely."

"Did you know I visited your exhibition today?"

"I just found out. My assistant called me tonight, mentioned you. You said the painting resembled your mother and wanted to buy it. You're the first to see 'The Goddess' as a mother."

Lucas hurriedly added, "I genuinely want to purchase the painting."

"I have my conditions," I stated firmly. "So, let's hear your story—"