Chapter 31: Maria's Gift

The paintbrush outlined the blue crystals slowly, carefully, and skillfully. Maria removed her hand and peered closer at the line she just drew. Finding it a little off from what she expected, she dabbed the thin brush into the purple paint and continued perfecting the fine line. "Neelam Stone?" Maria turned over her shoulder and smiled at Claude strolling toward her. She turned back to her work and continued smoothening the line. "Is that what it is called?" She mumbled, her full focus on her work. Claude sat on a stool near her and quietly watched the beautiful artist. "Yes. Blue gems of the highest quality." The paintbrush halted briefly, then it continued. Once done, Maria leaned back and tilted her head to check the entire composition. Claude mimicked her and smiled. "It looks rather solid." Maria looked at him, her eyes rounded in eagerness. "Really? That is what I was going for—the 3D effect." The experienced art buyer grin