CHAPTER EIGHTY THREE – COSTUME CONTEST

"You know, I get that my uninhibited ideas can be pretty visceral," he finished at last, somehow still plowing on despite their glazed expressions. "But that's just how I vibe, you know? Art should disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed, just like you always say." Jasmine traded one final, desperate glance with Beth. "Well, you've certainly got a very...emotive and expressive style going," she began carefully. "And I appreciate how deeply you've analyzed and embraced the more conceptual aspects of my work's themes." The teen instantly puffed up with unbridled pride and satisfaction. Behind him, the booth line was growing more restless and annoyed by the second. "We should probably give some other fans a chance to discuss their work though," Jasmine continued smoothly. "But I'd love to see more portfolio pieces from you at my next convention appearance, Kevin." She had no idea where the name 'Kevin' came from, having never actually asked the teen's name herself. But it se