Continued:
Matapos ang masayang concert namin sa concert ni Jackson, ay dumiretso na agad ako sa opisina para magtrabaho. Habang abala ako sa mga paper works ko ay may isang ka-officemate ko na tinawag ako, "Zaniyah, tawag ka ni sir, may sasabihin yata sa’yo." nagulat naman ako at kinabahan kasi baka may nagawa akong mali.
Agad naman ako tumayo sa ergonomic chair ko at naglakad patungo sa office ni sir. Nang narating ko na ang office niya ay kumatok muna ako. "Sir, it’s Zaniyah," sabi ko.
"Okay, come in," sabi niya, pumasok naman ako at sinarado ang pinto.
The soft lighting in his office seemed to radiate a sense of calm, momentarily easing my nervousness. I took a seat, my mind racing with curiosity about the reason for this impromptu meeting. "Sir, may problema po ba?" I asked, trying to sound composed despite my apprehension.
He looked up from his desk, his gaze gentle yet discerning. "No, Zaniyah, there's no problem at all. I wanted to discuss an opportunity that has come up, something that I believe aligns well with your talents."
My curiosity piqued, I leaned forward slightly, my heart beating a little faster. "An opportunity, sir?"
He nodded, a hint of excitement in his eyes. "Yes, Nexus Painting, a renowned art gallery, reached out to me. They're interested in featuring some unique artworks, pieces that carry depth and originality, and I thought of you and your art."
A mixture of surprise and excitement coursed through me at his words. The thought of my art being showcased in a prestigious gallery was something I had never imagined. "You're considering my paintings for an art exhibition, sir?"
His smile was encouraging. "Exactly, Zaniyah. Your work has caught my attention, and I believe it has the potential to make a significant impact."
I sat back in my chair, letting the magnitude of the opportunity sink in. The idea of having my art displayed and appreciated by a wider audience was both exhilarating and overwhelming. "I… I'm honored, sir. This is beyond anything I could have imagined."
He leaned forward, his expression supportive. "I have faith in your talent, Zaniyah, and I believe this could be a stepping stone for you."
A rush of gratitude swelled within me, warming my heart. The belief he had in my abilities was empowering, and it ignited a spark of determination within me. "I'm truly grateful for this chance, sir. Thank you."
He nodded, his encouragement unwavering. "Take your time to think it over, Zaniyah. Remember, opportunities like these can shape the trajectory of your career."
His words resonated deeply with me. I could feel the weight of this decision, knowing that it could be a turning point in my artistic journey. The chance to showcase my paintings in a renowned gallery was a dream come true, one that I hadn't even dared to dream until now.
"Kahit na nasa customer support ka na assign, alam ko na isa ka sa marunong sa painting, so, I consider na isali dito." sabi niya.
I was taken aback by his understanding of my hidden passion. Despite my role in the customer support department, he recognized the artist within me. The thought of showcasing my artwork in a gallery as esteemed as Nexus Painting both thrilled and humbled me.
I nodded, my gratitude evident in my smile. "Thank you, sir. I appreciate the trust you're placing in me."
His smile was reassuring. "I've seen your dedication and creativity in your work, Zaniyah. I believe this opportunity is a testament to your versatility."
His gaze held a mixture of pride and hope. "You have a talent that deserves recognition, Zaniyah."
"And here, invitation, pag may time ka starting tomorrow ang simula." dagdag niya.
As he handed me the invitation, a rush of excitement surged through me. Tomorrow would mark the beginning of a new chapter—one that held the promise of artistic growth and exposure. It was a challenge I was more than willing to embrace.
"Thank you for this opportunity, sir," I said, my voice carrying my determination.
He leaned back in his chair, his eyes reflecting a sense of accomplishment. "I've always believed in nurturing talents within our team."
I left his office with a renewed sense of purpose, my mind spinning with the implications of this unexpected opportunity. The idea of sharing my art with a larger audience filled me with a mix of excitement and nervousness, but I knew that it was a chance I couldn't let slip away.
As I returned to my desk, my fingers tingled with anticipation. The future held new horizons, and I was determined to embrace this chance to showcase my creativity, connect with others through my art, and embark on a journey of growth and self-discovery.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting warm hues across the sky, I marveled at the serendipitous turns that life could take. The journey ahead was uncharted, and I was prepared to navigate its twists and turns, armed with my passion for painting and a newfound determination.
So, as I walked into the evening, I carried the invitation in my hand like a compass pointing me toward a new destination—one that promised growth, exploration, and the chance to make my mark on the canvas of life.