I Agreed to My Son’s Art Idea… I Never Expected It to Happen | A True Infidelity Story
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[{'start': '0.000', 'end': '4.319', 'text': 'Our tale unfolds amidst the frigid'}, {'start': '2.000', 'end': '6.720', 'text': 'embrace of January, the pinnacle of'}, {'start': '4.319', 'end': '8.480', 'text': "winter's chill. The world lay enveloped"}, {'start': '6.720', 'end': '10.599', 'text': 'in a thick wintry hush beyond the'}, {'start': '8.480', 'end': '13.000', 'text': 'window. Yet my thoughts danced'}, {'start': '10.599', 'end': '15.839', 'text': 'restlessly, refusing to succumb to the'}, {'start': '13.000', 'end': '18.640', 'text': 'stillness. Ethan, my son, a gifted'}, {'start': '15.839', 'end': '20.400', 'text': 'artist, recently turned 19, was deeply'}, {'start': '18.640', 'end': '22.080', 'text': 'immersed in a realm of paintings and'}, {'start': '20.400', 'end': '24.560', 'text': 'sketches that captured the essence of'}, {'start': '22.080', 'end': '26.960', 'text': 'human figures, brimming with remarkable'}, {'start': '24.560', 'end': '29.359', 'text': 'movement and emotion. His sanctuary was'}, {'start': '26.960', 'end': '31.840', 'text': 'his creative space, a part of our home'}, {'start': '29.359', 'end': '33.520', 'text': 'that he had made his own. His fervor and'}, {'start': '31.840', 'end': '36.000', 'text': 'commitment shown through in the chaotic'}, {'start': '33.520', 'end': '38.640', 'text': 'haven of canvases, jars brimming with'}, {'start': '36.000', 'end': '40.719', 'text': 'brushes and vibrant paint streaks. That'}, {'start': '38.640', 'end': '43.280', 'text': 'morning, I enveloped myself in a heavy'}, {'start': '40.719', 'end': '45.360', 'text': 'robe, seeking refuge from the relentless'}, {'start': '43.280', 'end': '47.520', 'text': 'chill that seeped into our kitchen. In'}, {'start': '45.360', 'end': '49.760', 'text': 'the depths of winter, I found solace in'}, {'start': '47.520', 'end': '52.399', 'text': 'a steaming cup of coffee. The night'}, {'start': '49.760', 'end': '54.239', 'text': 'before, Ethan had stayed up late, and I'}, {'start': '52.399', 'end': '57.280', 'text': 'lacked the courage to rouse him from his'}, {'start': '54.239', 'end': '59.199', 'text': 'slumber. Lost in contemplation, I gazed'}, {'start': '57.280', 'end': '61.280', 'text': 'through the frostladen window when'}, {'start': '59.199', 'end': '63.359', 'text': 'suddenly the creaking of the stairs'}, {'start': '61.280', 'end': '65.519', 'text': 'broke the silence. I had grown used to'}, {'start': '63.359', 'end': '68.080', 'text': 'saying, "Good morning, mother." Ethan'}, {'start': '65.519', 'end': '70.560', 'text': 'offered a warm salutation, his voice'}, {'start': '68.080', 'end': '72.720', 'text': 'resonating with a steady, rich tamber.'}, {'start': '70.560', 'end': '75.520', 'text': 'With a cup of tea cradled in one arm and'}, {'start': '72.720', 'end': '78.000', 'text': 'a canvas poised in the other, he stood,'}, {'start': '75.520', 'end': '79.439', 'text': 'a portrait of quiet contemplation. His'}, {'start': '78.000', 'end': '81.680', 'text': 'eyes sparkled with a fervent'}, {'start': '79.439', 'end': '83.759', 'text': 'inspiration. Yet his hair lay in'}, {'start': '81.680', 'end': '86.320', 'text': 'disarray, and traces of slumber lingered'}, {'start': '83.759', 'end': '88.560', 'text': 'on his face as he delicately propped the'}, {'start': '86.320', 'end': '90.680', 'text': 'canvas against the counter. I greeted'}, {'start': '88.560', 'end': '93.520', 'text': 'him with a warm, "Good morning,'}, {'start': '90.680', 'end': '95.680', 'text': 'sweetheart." His enthusiasm vibrant even'}, {'start': '93.520', 'end': '98.000', 'text': 'amidst the bleakness of winter. Brought'}, {'start': '95.680', 'end': '101.119', 'text': 'a smile to my lips. "Did you manage to'}, {'start': '98.000', 'end': '103.119', 'text': 'find any rest last night?" I asked. A'}, {'start': '101.119', 'end': '105.759', 'text': 'shy smile danced at the edges of his'}, {'start': '103.119', 'end': '108.079', 'text': 'mouth as he gave a casual shrug. I was'}, {'start': '105.759', 'end': '110.079', 'text': 'in fact engaged in a task of my own.'}, {'start': '108.079', 'end': '112.479', 'text': 'Would you care to take a look? I'}, {'start': '110.079', 'end': '114.799', 'text': 'inclined my head, captivated by the'}, {'start': '112.479', 'end': '117.040', 'text': 'moment. He pivoted the canvas in my'}, {'start': '114.799', 'end': '119.119', 'text': 'direction, unveiling a painting that'}, {'start': '117.040', 'end': '121.600', 'text': 'momentarily took my breath away with its'}, {'start': '119.119', 'end': '123.439', 'text': 'sheer rawness and vividness. The subject'}, {'start': '121.600', 'end': '125.920', 'text': 'of the study was a figure bathed in'}, {'start': '123.439', 'end': '127.840', 'text': 'gentle light, embodying a captivating'}, {'start': '125.920', 'end': '130.080', 'text': 'blend of strength and vulnerability in'}, {'start': '127.840', 'end': '132.080', 'text': 'its posture. The depth and intimacy of'}, {'start': '130.080', 'end': '134.480', 'text': 'the piece were remarkable, far'}, {'start': '132.080', 'end': '136.480', 'text': "surpassing his years. It's truly"}, {'start': '134.480', 'end': '139.040', 'text': 'remarkable, Ethan, I murmured with'}, {'start': '136.480', 'end': '141.520', 'text': 'sincerity. A singular talent resides'}, {'start': '139.040', 'end': '143.680', 'text': 'within you. He averted his gaze, clearly'}, {'start': '141.520', 'end': '146.000', 'text': 'flustered by the praise, his cheeks'}, {'start': '143.680', 'end': '148.160', 'text': 'tinged with a rosy hue. With warm'}, {'start': '146.000', 'end': '150.319', 'text': 'regards, your mother, he acknowledged'}, {'start': '148.160', 'end': '152.640', 'text': 'that without your help, success would'}, {'start': '150.319', 'end': '154.959', 'text': 'have eluded him. We exchanged a quiet'}, {'start': '152.640', 'end': '157.280', 'text': 'comprehension that resonated deeply,'}, {'start': '154.959', 'end': '159.360', 'text': 'though it remained unspoken. Though he'}, {'start': '157.280', 'end': '161.200', 'text': 'was a good man at heart, my husband'}, {'start': '159.360', 'end': '163.360', 'text': 'often found himself absent from our'}, {'start': '161.200', 'end': '165.519', 'text': 'lives, caught up in the demands of work'}, {'start': '163.360', 'end': '167.840', 'text': 'or the pursuits of his hobbies. His'}, {'start': '165.519', 'end': '170.160', 'text': 'absence hung in the air of my life, a'}, {'start': '167.840', 'end': '172.319', 'text': 'quiet presence. Yet, I had ultimately'}, {'start': '170.160', 'end': '174.959', 'text': 'found a way to accept it. Later that'}, {'start': '172.319', 'end': '177.040', 'text': 'day, my curiosity got the better of me,'}, {'start': '174.959', 'end': '179.879', 'text': "prompting a visit to Ethan's studio for"}, {'start': '177.040', 'end': '181.920', 'text': "a glimpse inside. Ethan's brush glided"}, {'start': '179.879', 'end': '184.239', 'text': 'effortlessly, a dance of fluid'}, {'start': '181.920', 'end': '186.879', 'text': 'precision, as he faced yet another'}, {'start': '184.239', 'end': '189.120', 'text': 'canvas. His focus appeared to resonate'}, {'start': '186.879', 'end': '191.840', 'text': 'in the atmosphere. Upon catching sight'}, {'start': '189.120', 'end': '194.480', 'text': 'of me, he offered a subtle smile, one'}, {'start': '191.840', 'end': '196.519', 'text': 'that spoke volumes in its silence. In a'}, {'start': '194.480', 'end': '199.360', 'text': 'tender moment, I found myself ins'}, {'start': '196.519', 'end': '201.280', 'text': 'snared. He playfully inquired about the'}, {'start': '199.360', 'end': '203.360', 'text': 'project that currently occupies my'}, {'start': '201.280', 'end': '205.599', 'text': 'thoughts. Drawn in, I stepped into the'}, {'start': '203.360', 'end': '207.599', 'text': 'room. The scent of paint and tarpentine'}, {'start': '205.599', 'end': '209.599', 'text': 'hung in the air while the winter'}, {'start': '207.599', 'end': '211.720', 'text': 'sunlight streamed through the window,'}, {'start': '209.599', 'end': '214.080', 'text': 'casting a warm golden glow over his'}, {'start': '211.720', 'end': '216.640', 'text': 'workspace. He stepped aside to reveal'}, {'start': '214.080', 'end': '219.280', 'text': 'his masterpiece. A study of hands in'}, {'start': '216.640', 'end': '221.360', 'text': 'their intricate poses, embodying emotion'}, {'start': '219.280', 'end': '223.640', 'text': 'and expression. As I marveled at the'}, {'start': '221.360', 'end': '226.319', 'text': 'detail, I breathed out, "They\'re'}, {'start': '223.640', 'end': '228.799', 'text': 'beautiful." He turned to face me, his'}, {'start': '226.319', 'end': '230.640', 'text': 'gaze steady as he spoke. I have been'}, {'start': '228.799', 'end': '233.040', 'text': 'contemplating the creation of a series'}, {'start': '230.640', 'end': '235.440', 'text': 'that delves into the human form as a'}, {'start': '233.040', 'end': '238.000', 'text': 'means to explore a spectrum of emotions.'}, {'start': '235.440', 'end': '240.400', 'text': 'That sounds absolutely marvelous. I'}, {'start': '238.000', 'end': '242.640', 'text': 'remarked genuinely astonished. Your'}, {'start': '240.400', 'end': '244.640', 'text': 'perception often uncovers nuances that'}, {'start': '242.640', 'end': '247.200', 'text': 'elude the attention of others. In a'}, {'start': '244.640', 'end': '249.120', 'text': 'fleeting instant, an unspoken connection'}, {'start': '247.200', 'end': '252.159', 'text': 'lingered in the air as his expression'}, {'start': '249.120', 'end': '253.920', 'text': 'softened. I had felt it before. A'}, {'start': '252.159', 'end': '256.400', 'text': 'delicate bond that transcended the'}, {'start': '253.920', 'end': '258.479', 'text': 'ordinary parent child relationship. It'}, {'start': '256.400', 'end': '260.959', 'text': 'evoked a sense of how deeply we depended'}, {'start': '258.479', 'end': '263.120', 'text': 'on each other, especially in the absence'}, {'start': '260.959', 'end': '265.520', 'text': 'of his father. The winter days drifted'}, {'start': '263.120', 'end': '268.000', 'text': 'by, punctuated by our shared warmth'}, {'start': '265.520', 'end': '270.400', 'text': "against the chill alongside Ethan's"}, {'start': '268.000', 'end': '272.080', 'text': 'expanding portfolio. Yet, as we'}, {'start': '270.400', 'end': '273.680', 'text': 'approached, my mind wandered to the'}, {'start': '272.080', 'end': '275.520', 'text': 'boundaries we establish in our'}, {'start': '273.680', 'end': '278.320', 'text': 'connections, and the moments where'}, {'start': '275.520', 'end': '280.560', 'text': 'admiration and love quietly intertwined.'}, {'start': '278.320', 'end': '283.040', 'text': 'It was an undeniable truth. Ethan'}, {'start': '280.560', 'end': '284.800', 'text': 'transcended the role of mere sun to me.'}, {'start': '283.040', 'end': '286.880', 'text': 'He was an exceptional young man who'}, {'start': '284.800', 'end': '288.960', 'text': 'brought light to the empty spaces in my'}, {'start': '286.880', 'end': '291.440', 'text': 'life. The night was enveloped in a'}, {'start': '288.960', 'end': '293.120', 'text': 'serene stillness. A January evening'}, {'start': '291.440', 'end': '295.360', 'text': 'where the darkness and the gentle fall'}, {'start': '293.120', 'end': '297.120', 'text': 'of snow hushed the entire world. My'}, {'start': '295.360', 'end': '299.440', 'text': 'husband had ventured out for a night of'}, {'start': '297.120', 'end': '301.919', 'text': 'bowling with friends, a routine he often'}, {'start': '299.440', 'end': '303.520', 'text': 'indulged in, leaving Ethan and me in a'}, {'start': '301.919', 'end': '306.160', 'text': 'home that seemed to breathe easier in'}, {'start': '303.520', 'end': '308.800', 'text': 'his absence. On that day, Ethan was'}, {'start': '306.160', 'end': '310.320', 'text': 'especially observant, offering brief yet'}, {'start': '308.800', 'end': '312.720', 'text': 'thoughtful acknowledgements as we'}, {'start': '310.320', 'end': '314.800', 'text': 'navigated our routine. You possess a'}, {'start': '312.720', 'end': '317.199', 'text': 'keen awareness of your own personality,'}, {'start': '314.800', 'end': '319.840', 'text': 'Mom. As I stood in the kitchen preparing'}, {'start': '317.199', 'end': '322.560', 'text': 'dinner, his words from earlier echoed in'}, {'start': '319.840', 'end': '325.199', 'text': 'my mind. A curious smile played on my'}, {'start': '322.560', 'end': '328.000', 'text': 'lips as I turned to meet his gaze. His'}, {'start': '325.199', 'end': '329.680', 'text': 'lips curled into that familiar easy grin'}, {'start': '328.000', 'end': '332.000', 'text': 'as he leaned casually against the'}, {'start': '329.680', 'end': '334.280', 'text': 'doorway. "Your ability to infuse a sense'}, {'start': '332.000', 'end': '336.320', 'text': 'of belonging into every space is truly'}, {'start': '334.280', 'end': '339.360', 'text': 'remarkable." He mentioned that it\'s'}, {'start': '336.320', 'end': '341.680', 'text': 'quite uncommon, and I chuckled softly,'}, {'start': '339.360', 'end': '343.680', 'text': 'brushing aside his rethins as a playful'}, {'start': '341.680', 'end': '345.919', 'text': 'compliment from his son. Yet, they'}, {'start': '343.680', 'end': '347.680', 'text': 'ignited a warmth within me. The words'}, {'start': '345.919', 'end': '350.160', 'text': 'alone did not convey the depth of'}, {'start': '347.680', 'end': '351.919', 'text': 'understanding I experienced. It was the'}, {'start': '350.160', 'end': '354.400', 'text': 'gentle, heartfelt tone that truly'}, {'start': '351.919', 'end': '356.639', 'text': 'resonated with me. Later that night, as'}, {'start': '354.400', 'end': '359.199', 'text': 'I sat by the fire, flipping through the'}, {'start': '356.639', 'end': '361.680', 'text': 'pages of a magazine, Ethan emerged from'}, {'start': '359.199', 'end': '364.000', 'text': 'his studio, a box in hand. His smile'}, {'start': '361.680', 'end': '366.720', 'text': 'held a youthful innocence, and his deep'}, {'start': '364.000', 'end': '368.400', 'text': 'set eyes sparkled with anticipation. He'}, {'start': '366.720', 'end': '371.039', 'text': 'placed the box on the coffee table'}, {'start': '368.400', 'end': '373.919', 'text': 'before me and declared, "Mom, I have an'}, {'start': '371.039', 'end': '376.400', 'text': 'idea. What could this possibly be?" With'}, {'start': '373.919', 'end': '378.639', 'text': 'a sense of curiosity, I inquired. With'}, {'start': '376.400', 'end': '380.560', 'text': 'his hands tucked into his pockets, he'}, {'start': '378.639', 'end': '383.440', 'text': 'took a step back and encouraged her to'}, {'start': '380.560', 'end': '385.440', 'text': 'unveil it. As I lifted the lid, my eyes'}, {'start': '383.440', 'end': '387.680', 'text': 'were drawn to a breathtaking red satin'}, {'start': '385.440', 'end': '390.319', 'text': 'robe that shimmerred in the soft light,'}, {'start': '387.680', 'end': '392.479', 'text': 'reminiscent of liquid fire. I inhaled'}, {'start': '390.319', 'end': '395.440', 'text': 'sharply. "What purpose does this serve,"'}, {'start': '392.479', 'end': '397.840', 'text': 'Ethan, though his demeanor was grave, he'}, {'start': '395.440', 'end': '399.840', 'text': 'offered a casual shrug? "I have been'}, {'start': '397.840', 'end': '401.840', 'text': 'contemplating the initiation of a new'}, {'start': '399.840', 'end': '404.240', 'text': 'series of portraits that embody a sense'}, {'start': '401.840', 'end': '407.280', 'text': 'of intimacy rather than detachment or'}, {'start': '404.240', 'end': '409.440', 'text': 'chilliness. I long to express warmth,'}, {'start': '407.280', 'end': '412.000', 'text': 'elegance, and a sense of you. Allow me'}, {'start': '409.440', 'end': '413.680', 'text': 'to create your portrait, if you will. My'}, {'start': '412.000', 'end': '417.120', 'text': 'heart raced at the thought of becoming'}, {'start': '413.680', 'end': '419.280', 'text': 'his muse. As I beheld the robe, a mix of'}, {'start': '417.120', 'end': '422.000', 'text': 'exhilaration and unease washed over me'}, {'start': '419.280', 'end': '423.919', 'text': 'at the thought. Shall I put this on? His'}, {'start': '422.000', 'end': '426.160', 'text': 'tone carried a sincere weight as he'}, {'start': '423.919', 'end': '428.000', 'text': 'nodded. You would undoubtedly appear'}, {'start': '426.160', 'end': '430.160', 'text': 'stunning in it, but only for the'}, {'start': '428.000', 'end': '432.080', 'text': 'portrait, of course. For a fleeting'}, {'start': '430.160', 'end': '434.520', 'text': 'moment, I paused before giving my'}, {'start': '432.080', 'end': '436.800', 'text': 'ascent. The charm of his request was'}, {'start': '434.520', 'end': '439.120', 'text': 'undeniable, especially as his face'}, {'start': '436.800', 'end': '441.759', 'text': 'radiated with fervor. Very well, I'}, {'start': '439.120', 'end': '444.960', 'text': 'murmured. Let us embark on this journey.'}, {'start': '441.759', 'end': '447.199', 'text': 'His joy radiated and his smile expanded.'}, {'start': '444.960', 'end': '449.360', 'text': 'Very well, I shall prepare everything as'}, {'start': '447.199', 'end': '451.520', 'text': 'you dawn the attire. With a slight'}, {'start': '449.360', 'end': '454.080', 'text': 'tremor in my hands, I dawned the robe'}, {'start': '451.520', 'end': '456.080', 'text': 'and ascended the stairs. The box cradled'}, {'start': '454.080', 'end': '458.960', 'text': 'carefully in my grasp. The satin'}, {'start': '456.080', 'end': '461.440', 'text': 'cascaded softly over my form. Its cool'}, {'start': '458.960', 'end': '464.000', 'text': 'touch a whisper against my skin. It was'}, {'start': '461.440', 'end': '466.080', 'text': 'undeniably beautiful, and a wave of'}, {'start': '464.000', 'end': '468.319', 'text': 'confidence washed over me as I looked at'}, {'start': '466.080', 'end': '470.720', 'text': 'my reflection in the mirror. By the time'}, {'start': '468.319', 'end': '472.880', 'text': 'I returned, Ethan had transformed the'}, {'start': '470.720', 'end': '475.520', 'text': 'living room. At the heart of the scene,'}, {'start': '472.880', 'end': '477.840', 'text': 'illuminated by the dancing flames, sat a'}, {'start': '475.520', 'end': '479.759', 'text': 'chair draped in a warm woolen blanket.'}, {'start': '477.840', 'end': '482.160', 'text': 'His easel loomed beside a pristine'}, {'start': '479.759', 'end': '484.960', 'text': 'canvas, poised for the brushstrokes of'}, {'start': '482.160', 'end': '487.160', 'text': 'his inspiration. "You look beautiful,"'}, {'start': '484.960', 'end': '489.800', 'text': 'he murmured, his voice rich with'}, {'start': '487.160', 'end': '491.840', 'text': 'admiration. After a brief pause of'}, {'start': '489.800', 'end': '493.840', 'text': 'contemplation, he shook his head and'}, {'start': '491.840', 'end': '496.240', 'text': 'gestured toward the chair. "Settle in'}, {'start': '493.840', 'end': '498.240', 'text': 'and let yourself relax." The soft'}, {'start': '496.240', 'end': '500.560', 'text': 'texture of the blanket soothed my nerves'}, {'start': '498.240', 'end': '502.319', 'text': 'as I settled into the chair. Ethan'}, {'start': '500.560', 'end': '504.720', 'text': 'shifted his gaze between me and the'}, {'start': '502.319', 'end': '506.960', 'text': 'canvas, his brush gliding across the'}, {'start': '504.720', 'end': '509.280', 'text': 'surface with a short practice strokes.'}, {'start': '506.960', 'end': '511.680', 'text': 'At one moment, he playfully remarked,'}, {'start': '509.280', 'end': '513.760', 'text': '"Hold still. It\'s not something you'}, {'start': '511.680', 'end': '515.839', 'text': 'struggle with. Your elegance is'}, {'start': '513.760', 'end': '518.080', 'text': 'inherent." I shook my head and let out a'}, {'start': '515.839', 'end': '520.240', 'text': 'soft chuckle. Ethan, you really are'}, {'start': '518.080', 'end': '523.440', 'text': 'something else. He locked his gaze with'}, {'start': '520.240', 'end': '525.680', 'text': 'mine and insisted, "No, really, mother.'}, {'start': '523.440', 'end': '527.600', 'text': 'You are absolutely radiant. I can only'}, {'start': '525.680', 'end': '529.760', 'text': 'wish that this painting captures your'}, {'start': '527.600', 'end': '531.600', 'text': 'essence as it should." His wreath and'}, {'start': '529.760', 'end': '534.160', 'text': 'stirred within me a profound blend of'}, {'start': '531.600', 'end': '535.680', 'text': 'pride and vulnerability. Emotions I'}, {'start': '534.160', 'end': '538.560', 'text': "wasn't yet prepared to confront"}, {'start': '535.680', 'end': '540.959', 'text': 'directly. I remained silent, letting the'}, {'start': '538.560', 'end': '543.040', 'text': 'gentle strokes of his brush and the soft'}, {'start': '540.959', 'end': '545.200', 'text': 'crackle of the fire create a comforting'}, {'start': '543.040', 'end': '547.600', 'text': 'atmosphere around us. As the evening'}, {'start': '545.200', 'end': '549.480', 'text': 'unfolded, the atmosphere shifted, an'}, {'start': '547.600', 'end': '551.839', 'text': 'unspoken yet profound connection'}, {'start': '549.480', 'end': '554.240', 'text': 'blossomed, surpassing the boundaries of'}, {'start': '551.839', 'end': '556.480', 'text': "verbal communication. Ethan's warmth"}, {'start': '554.240', 'end': '558.399', 'text': 'captivated me, his teasing growing'}, {'start': '556.480', 'end': '560.240', 'text': 'gentler, while his compliments took on a'}, {'start': '558.399', 'end': '561.920', 'text': 'more personal touch. "Do you recall'}, {'start': '560.240', 'end': '564.240', 'text': 'those days of my youth when I would'}, {'start': '561.920', 'end': '566.959', 'text': 'sketch you with vibrant crayons?" he'}, {'start': '564.240', 'end': '569.360', 'text': 'inquired suddenly, halting mid-sentence.'}, {'start': '566.959', 'end': '572.000', 'text': '"Regardless of their shortcomings, you'}, {'start': '569.360', 'end': '574.080', 'text': 'held on to them steadfastly. The memory'}, {'start': '572.000', 'end': '577.040', 'text': 'brought a smile to my face. They were'}, {'start': '574.080', 'end': '579.440', 'text': 'not terrible. He laughed, his eyes soft'}, {'start': '577.040', 'end': '581.519', 'text': 'and kind. They held a value beyond'}, {'start': '579.440', 'end': '583.680', 'text': 'measure, for they were born from you,'}, {'start': '581.519', 'end': '585.360', 'text': 'not merely for artwork, but for all'}, {'start': '583.680', 'end': '587.920', 'text': 'things you have eternally been my'}, {'start': '585.360', 'end': '590.240', 'text': 'cherished muse." His words hung in the'}, {'start': '587.920', 'end': '592.560', 'text': 'air, and I felt the warmth rise to my'}, {'start': '590.240', 'end': '594.399', 'text': 'cheeks. His voice resonated with a'}, {'start': '592.560', 'end': '597.279', 'text': 'richness that instilled in me a feeling'}, {'start': '594.399', 'end': '599.680', 'text': 'of familiarity and value, a sensation I'}, {'start': '597.279', 'end': '602.160', 'text': 'had not encountered in many years. Upon'}, {'start': '599.680', 'end': '603.760', 'text': 'finishing, he stepped back, his gaze'}, {'start': '602.160', 'end': '606.720', 'text': 'scrutinizing the canvas with a'}, {'start': '603.760', 'end': '608.720', 'text': 'discerning eye. Completed, he'}, {'start': '606.720', 'end': '610.800', 'text': 'proclaimed, his voice brimming with'}, {'start': '608.720', 'end': '613.120', 'text': 'pride. I approached the artwork that'}, {'start': '610.800', 'end': '616.079', 'text': 'graced the far side of the room. It was'}, {'start': '613.120', 'end': '618.399', 'text': 'truly remarkable. A portrait of myself,'}, {'start': '616.079', 'end': '620.640', 'text': 'the satin robe elegantly cascading over'}, {'start': '618.399', 'end': '623.120', 'text': 'my shoulders, bathed in the inviting'}, {'start': '620.640', 'end': '626.000', 'text': "warmth of the fire's glow. My admiration"}, {'start': '623.120', 'end': '628.160', 'text': 'extended beyond mere technical skill. An'}, {'start': '626.000', 'end': '630.800', 'text': 'essence deeper than I had ever realized'}, {'start': '628.160', 'end': '633.240', 'text': 'was ins snared by him. My voice trembled'}, {'start': '630.800', 'end': '636.399', 'text': 'with emotion as I spoke. It is truly'}, {'start': '633.240', 'end': '639.120', 'text': 'exquisite. My sincere gratitude. Ethan'}, {'start': '636.399', 'end': '641.200', 'text': 'pivoted to meet my gaze. His expression'}, {'start': '639.120', 'end': '643.680', 'text': 'grave and contemplative. Your efforts'}, {'start': '641.200', 'end': '645.920', 'text': 'have not gone unnoticed, and I am truly'}, {'start': '643.680', 'end': '648.160', 'text': 'grateful for all that you have done. As'}, {'start': '645.920', 'end': '649.680', 'text': 'I reclined in bed that night, my'}, {'start': '648.160', 'end': '652.240', 'text': 'thoughts lingered on the painting and'}, {'start': '649.680', 'end': '654.720', 'text': "the intensity of Ethan's gaze upon me."}, {'start': '652.240', 'end': '656.959', 'text': 'Though our bond had always been strong,'}, {'start': '654.720', 'end': '659.040', 'text': 'it felt as if something was shifting,'}, {'start': '656.959', 'end': '661.440', 'text': 'deepening, and becoming more intricate.'}, {'start': '659.040', 'end': '663.920', 'text': 'Alongside its unsettling nature, it'}, {'start': '661.440', 'end': '666.000', 'text': 'offered a profound sense of comfort. As'}, {'start': '663.920', 'end': '667.360', 'text': 'I awoke, the golden glow of the gentle'}, {'start': '666.000', 'end': '669.600', 'text': 'morning light seeped through the'}, {'start': '667.360', 'end': '672.240', 'text': 'curtains. The scent of freshly brewed'}, {'start': '669.600', 'end': '674.240', 'text': 'coffee enveloped me. Arriving before my'}, {'start': '672.240', 'end': '676.399', 'text': 'thoughts could fully gather themselves.'}, {'start': '674.240', 'end': '679.200', 'text': 'As I slowly opened my eyes, I found'}, {'start': '676.399', 'end': '681.760', 'text': 'Ethan standing by my bedside, a teasing'}, {'start': '679.200', 'end': '684.240', 'text': 'grin playing on his lips. He cradled a'}, {'start': '681.760', 'end': '686.880', 'text': 'steaming mug in one hand while the other'}, {'start': '684.240', 'end': '688.760', 'text': 'delicately held a solitary daisy, a'}, {'start': '686.880', 'end': '691.120', 'text': 'gentle and uncomplicated morning'}, {'start': '688.760', 'end': '693.680', 'text': 'inspiration. His tone carried a warmth'}, {'start': '691.120', 'end': '695.120', 'text': 'as he playfully teased. "Today I sense'}, {'start': '693.680', 'end': '697.120', 'text': 'that you deserved a touch more'}, {'start': '695.120', 'end': '699.920', 'text': 'indulgence, though I lingered in the'}, {'start': '697.120', 'end': '702.000', 'text': 'haze of slumber. A smile crept across my'}, {'start': '699.920', 'end': '704.079', 'text': 'face, touched by the warmth of his'}, {'start': '702.000', 'end': '706.720', 'text': 'thoughtfulness." I propped myself up and'}, {'start': '704.079', 'end': '708.880', 'text': 'murmured, "You\'re spoiling me." As he'}, {'start': '706.720', 'end': '712.000', 'text': 'placed the coffee on the nightstand.'}, {'start': '708.880', 'end': '713.680', 'text': "That's the idea, he said, extending the"}, {'start': '712.000', 'end': '716.560', 'text': 'flower toward me as he perched on the'}, {'start': '713.680', 'end': '719.040', 'text': 'edge of the bed, as he scrutinized me.'}, {'start': '716.560', 'end': '720.880', 'text': 'His expression softened, and his gaze'}, {'start': '719.040', 'end': '723.279', 'text': 'lingered in a manner that sent my heart'}, {'start': '720.880', 'end': '725.720', 'text': 'racing. "Mother, your influence has'}, {'start': '723.279', 'end': '727.920', 'text': 'ignited a spark within me. In all my'}, {'start': '725.720', 'end': '730.560', 'text': 'experiences, I have never encountered'}, {'start': '727.920', 'end': '732.440', 'text': 'such a profound sense of connection."'}, {'start': '730.560', 'end': '735.040', 'text': 'His honesty shattered my usual'}, {'start': '732.440', 'end': '736.800', 'text': 'composure, rendering me speechless as he'}, {'start': '735.040', 'end': '739.279', 'text': 'addressed my work or engaged with'}, {'start': '736.800', 'end': '741.200', 'text': 'others. He grasped my hand and pressed a'}, {'start': '739.279', 'end': '744.000', 'text': 'gentle kiss upon it before I could utter'}, {'start': '741.200', 'end': '746.079', 'text': "a word. There's more to come, he"}, {'start': '744.000', 'end': '748.160', 'text': 'remarked with a playful lil in his voice'}, {'start': '746.079', 'end': '750.320', 'text': 'once again. This evening holds a'}, {'start': '748.160', 'end': '752.240', 'text': "delightful surprise for you, but it's"}, {'start': '750.320', 'end': '754.880', 'text': 'crucial to keep the studio door closed'}, {'start': '752.240', 'end': '756.639', 'text': "in case dad happens to notice. It's safe"}, {'start': '754.880', 'end': '759.279', 'text': 'to say he would never grasp how his'}, {'start': '756.639', 'end': '761.519', 'text': 'words set my heart racing. A tumultuous'}, {'start': '759.279', 'end': '764.320', 'text': 'mix of anxiety and excitement swirling'}, {'start': '761.519', 'end': '766.399', 'text': 'within me. What kind of surprise awaits?'}, {'start': '764.320', 'end': '768.959', 'text': 'My voice emerged with a gentleness I'}, {'start': '766.399', 'end': '771.600', 'text': "hadn't intended when I inquired. Ethan"}, {'start': '768.959', 'end': '774.800', 'text': 'rose to his feet, laughter escaping his'}, {'start': '771.600', 'end': '776.480', 'text': 'lips. "You\'ll see," he declared. "There'}, {'start': '774.800', 'end': '778.160', 'text': 'are a few items I need to gather'}, {'start': '776.480', 'end': '780.320', 'text': 'initially, but I assure you,'}, {'start': '778.160', 'end': '782.560', 'text': 'you\'ll<unk>ll adore it." He then left,'}, {'start': '780.320', 'end': '784.480', 'text': 'leaving me with the coffee, the daisy,'}, {'start': '782.560', 'end': '786.720', 'text': "and a whirlwind of emotions I wasn't"}, {'start': '784.480', 'end': '789.360', 'text': 'quite prepared to confront. I found'}, {'start': '786.720', 'end': '791.760', 'text': 'myself echoing his words, mimicking his'}, {'start': '789.360', 'end': '794.079', 'text': 'gestures, and recalling the way his gaze'}, {'start': '791.760', 'end': '795.920', 'text': 'had lingered on me throughout the day. I'}, {'start': '794.079', 'end': '798.720', 'text': 'found myself caught in a whirlwind of'}, {'start': '795.920', 'end': '801.200', 'text': 'conflict and exhilaration reminiscent of'}, {'start': '798.720', 'end': '804.320', 'text': 'the heady days of youthful infatuation.'}, {'start': '801.200', 'end': '806.720', 'text': 'Ethan was no ordinary person. He was my'}, {'start': '804.320', 'end': '809.360', 'text': 'son. Yet in his gaze and the way he'}, {'start': '806.720', 'end': '811.680', 'text': 'treated me, I felt a resurgence of my'}, {'start': '809.360', 'end': '814.560', 'text': 'identity, transcending the roles of wife'}, {'start': '811.680', 'end': '817.279', 'text': 'and mother. As the evening unfolded, my'}, {'start': '814.560', 'end': '819.519', 'text': 'anticipation grew ever more fervent. I'}, {'start': '817.279', 'end': '821.920', 'text': 'prepared dinner, filled two glasses with'}, {'start': '819.519', 'end': '823.680', 'text': 'wine, and focused on distracting myself'}, {'start': '821.920', 'end': '825.760', 'text': 'from the uncertainties that the night'}, {'start': '823.680', 'end': '827.600', 'text': 'might hold. My heart was racing by the'}, {'start': '825.760', 'end': '829.120', 'text': "time I arrived at Ethan's studio. I"}, {'start': '827.600', 'end': '830.480', 'text': 'pushed the door open, and it creaked,'}, {'start': '829.120', 'end': '832.880', 'text': 'and there he was encircled by the'}, {'start': '830.480', 'end': '834.160', 'text': 'well-known tangle of paint and canvases.'}, {'start': '832.880', 'end': '836.320', 'text': 'He appeared different, though more'}, {'start': '834.160', 'end': '838.160', 'text': 'confident and self assured a tiny red'}, {'start': '836.320', 'end': '839.440', 'text': 'box, its bright color gleaming, and the'}, {'start': '838.160', 'end': '841.360', 'text': "light was in his hands. I've been"}, {'start': '839.440', 'end': '843.279', 'text': 'anticipating your arrival. His voice was'}, {'start': '841.360', 'end': '844.800', 'text': 'inviting, and low as he spoke. Enter. He'}, {'start': '843.279', 'end': '847.040', 'text': 'gestured to a chair in the middle of the'}, {'start': '844.800', 'end': '849.600', 'text': 'room and I entered. Closing the door'}, {'start': '847.040', 'end': '851.199', 'text': 'behind me with the subtle hum of music'}, {'start': '849.600', 'end': '853.120', 'text': 'in the background and the subtle smell'}, {'start': '851.199', 'end': '855.199', 'text': 'of paint still permeating the air. The'}, {'start': '853.120', 'end': '856.959', 'text': 'scene was cozy. As he handed me the box,'}, {'start': '855.199', 'end': '858.800', 'text': 'I became more interested. His eyes were'}, {'start': '856.959', 'end': '860.480', 'text': 'bright with anticipation. As he urged'}, {'start': '858.800', 'end': '862.560', 'text': 'them to open it, I opened the lid with'}, {'start': '860.480', 'end': '864.880', 'text': 'shaking fingers and saw a sleek leather'}, {'start': '862.560', 'end': '866.880', 'text': 'outfit, black lingerie, a pair of cat'}, {'start': '864.880', 'end': '868.480', 'text': 'ears, and even a tiny tail. Unsure of'}, {'start': '866.880', 'end': '870.560', 'text': 'how to react, I looked up at him, my'}, {'start': '868.480', 'end': '872.160', 'text': 'cheeks flushed. He said, "Simply and'}, {'start': '870.560', 'end': '874.399', 'text': "earnestly, you're my muse. I want to"}, {'start': '872.160', 'end': '876.240', 'text': 'portray you in a brave, fearless, and'}, {'start': '874.399', 'end': '878.240', 'text': 'unapologetic manner. Feeling the weight'}, {'start': '876.240', 'end': '879.760', 'text': 'of the situation, I hesitated, but it'}, {'start': '878.240', 'end': '882.000', 'text': 'was impossible to say no to his'}, {'start': '879.760', 'end': '883.920', 'text': 'unflinching confidence and admiration, I'}, {'start': '882.000', 'end': '885.760', 'text': 'took the box, nodded slowly, and moved'}, {'start': '883.920', 'end': '887.440', 'text': 'back behind a screen he had erected in'}, {'start': '885.760', 'end': '888.959', 'text': 'the corner. The leather stuck to my skin'}, {'start': '887.440', 'end': '890.880', 'text': 'as I undressed, making me feel'}, {'start': '888.959', 'end': '892.399', 'text': 'vulnerable and strong when I eventually'}, {'start': '890.880', 'end': '894.480', 'text': "came out. Ethan's response was"}, {'start': '892.399', 'end': '896.480', 'text': 'instantaneous after his eyes widened a'}, {'start': '894.480', 'end': '898.399', 'text': 'little. A slow smile appeared on his'}, {'start': '896.480', 'end': '900.639', 'text': 'face. "You\'re perfect," he said, quietly'}, {'start': '898.399', 'end': '902.639', 'text': 'motioning me to take a seat again.'}, {'start': '900.639', 'end': '904.800', 'text': '"Perfect. Perfect. Perfect with the'}, {'start': '902.639', 'end': '906.720', 'text': 'accuracy of someone in their element. He'}, {'start': '904.800', 'end': '908.320', 'text': 'manipulated his easel. The music and the'}, {'start': '906.720', 'end': '910.240', 'text': 'lighting. Then he started sketching'}, {'start': '908.320', 'end': '912.000', 'text': 'moving with purpose and concentration.'}, {'start': '910.240', 'end': '914.000', 'text': 'Except for the faint scratch of charcoal'}, {'start': '912.000', 'end': '915.920', 'text': "on paper and Ethan's sporadic mutter of"}, {'start': '914.000', 'end': '917.680', 'text': 'approval. The room was silent. I'}, {'start': '915.920', 'end': '919.320', 'text': 'observed him working his hands steady'}, {'start': '917.680', 'end': '921.440', 'text': 'and assured his brow furrowed in'}, {'start': '919.320', 'end': '923.199', 'text': 'concentration. He studied every curve'}, {'start': '921.440', 'end': '925.600', 'text': 'and shadow of me as though I were the'}, {'start': '923.199', 'end': '927.839', 'text': 'most fascinating subject he had ever'}, {'start': '925.600', 'end': '929.519', 'text': 'seen. And there was something deeply'}, {'start': '927.839', 'end': '931.199', 'text': 'personal about the way he looked at me.'}, {'start': '929.519', 'end': '933.279', 'text': 'The boundaries between us appeared to'}, {'start': '931.199', 'end': '935.120', 'text': 'become increasingly hazy. As the hours'}, {'start': '933.279', 'end': '937.360', 'text': 'went by, Ethan became bolder in his'}, {'start': '935.120', 'end': '939.120', 'text': 'compliments and softer and more loving'}, {'start': '937.360', 'end': '941.040', 'text': 'in his teasing. Even though I knew we'}, {'start': '939.120', 'end': '942.959', 'text': "were going too far, I couldn't bring"}, {'start': '941.040', 'end': '944.800', 'text': 'myself to stop him or the emotions that'}, {'start': '942.959', 'end': '946.800', 'text': 'are arising inside of me. The bond'}, {'start': '944.800', 'end': '949.199', 'text': 'between us felt indisputable. When he'}, {'start': '946.800', 'end': '951.120', 'text': 'eventually put down his tools, he took a'}, {'start': '949.199', 'end': '953.279', 'text': 'step toward me, looked into my eyes, and'}, {'start': '951.120', 'end': '954.959', 'text': 'spoke in a voice that was hardly more.'}, {'start': '953.279', 'end': '956.720', 'text': 'Then a whisper, "I\'m grateful that you'}, {'start': '954.959', 'end': '958.320', 'text': 'trusted me and allowed me to see you."'}, {'start': '956.720', 'end': '960.560', 'text': 'He said, "I was overcome with emotion,'}, {'start': '958.320', 'end': '962.480', 'text': 'but I was at a loss for words rather." I'}, {'start': '960.560', 'end': '964.160', 'text': 'extended my arm to grasp his hand and'}, {'start': '962.480', 'end': '966.079', 'text': 'held it firmly. Although neither of us'}, {'start': '964.160', 'end': '967.600', 'text': 'fully understood it, we were unable to'}, {'start': '966.079', 'end': '969.440', 'text': "ignore the moment's delicate yet"}, {'start': '967.600', 'end': '971.279', 'text': 'powerful feel. I relived every word,'}, {'start': '969.440', 'end': '972.800', 'text': 'every glance, every detail. As I lay in'}, {'start': '971.279', 'end': '974.639', 'text': 'bed that night, something had changed'}, {'start': '972.800', 'end': '976.399', 'text': "between us, deepened in ways I couldn't"}, {'start': '974.639', 'end': '978.079', 'text': 'quite put my finger on. Even though I'}, {'start': '976.399', 'end': '979.759', 'text': 'had no idea where this would go, I'}, {'start': '978.079', 'end': '981.680', 'text': "couldn't get rid of the sensation that I"}, {'start': '979.759', 'end': '983.519', 'text': 'was entering something unique and'}, {'start': '981.680', 'end': '985.759', 'text': 'completely unknown. My phone buzzed'}, {'start': '983.519', 'end': '987.680', 'text': 'softly on the nightstand, interrupting'}, {'start': '985.759', 'end': '989.040', 'text': 'my thoughts. I saw a message from Ethan'}, {'start': '987.680', 'end': '990.959', 'text': 'as I reached for it. Come to me.'}, {'start': '989.040', 'end': '992.399', 'text': 'Sleeping is impossible for me. As I read'}, {'start': '990.959', 'end': '994.320', 'text': 'the words, their meaning packed into'}, {'start': '992.399', 'end': '996.079', 'text': 'their simplicity. My breath caught as I'}, {'start': '994.320', 'end': '997.920', 'text': 'considered my options. My heart raced,'}, {'start': '996.079', 'end': '999.519', 'text': 'but before I could stop myself, I was'}, {'start': '997.920', 'end': '1001.600', 'text': 'being carried by my feet toward his'}, {'start': '999.519', 'end': '1003.120', 'text': 'studio down the hallway, except for the'}, {'start': '1001.600', 'end': '1004.800', 'text': 'gentle creek of the wooden floors'}, {'start': '1003.120', 'end': '1006.800', 'text': 'beneath my feet. The house was quiet.'}, {'start': '1004.800', 'end': '1009.360', 'text': 'Ethan was sitting on the edge of the'}, {'start': '1006.800', 'end': '1011.199', 'text': 'couch with his hands clasped nervously'}, {'start': '1009.360', 'end': '1012.560', 'text': 'in his lap. When I opened the door, as I'}, {'start': '1011.199', 'end': '1014.040', 'text': 'walked in, he looked up his eyes,'}, {'start': '1012.560', 'end': '1016.160', 'text': 'searching mine with a mixture of'}, {'start': '1014.040', 'end': '1018.079', 'text': 'vulnerability and hope, mom. His voice'}, {'start': '1016.160', 'end': '1019.680', 'text': 'was hardly audible. As he started, "Do'}, {'start': '1018.079', 'end': '1021.759', 'text': 'you also feel it? I must know. How do'}, {'start': '1019.680', 'end': '1023.519', 'text': 'I?" I was momentarily unable to breathe.'}, {'start': '1021.759', 'end': '1025.120', 'text': 'As his words lingered in the air, I'}, {'start': '1023.519', 'end': '1026.720', 'text': "couldn't lie to him because I knew what"}, {'start': '1025.120', 'end': '1028.400', 'text': 'he was asking. Even though I had tried'}, {'start': '1026.720', 'end': '1031.360', 'text': 'to hide it from myself, not with such'}, {'start': '1028.400', 'end': '1033.439', 'text': 'unvarnished honesty in his eyes. Yes, I'}, {'start': '1031.360', 'end': '1035.839', 'text': 'said quietly, my voice shaking. Yes, I'}, {'start': '1033.439', 'end': '1037.839', 'text': 'do. His face lit up with relief, and he'}, {'start': '1035.839', 'end': '1039.839', 'text': 'got up, taking short steps to get closer'}, {'start': '1037.839', 'end': '1041.439', 'text': 'to me. His voice was full of emotion as'}, {'start': '1039.839', 'end': '1042.799', 'text': 'he whispered, "You were always more than'}, {'start': '1041.439', 'end': '1044.880', 'text': 'just my mom. To me, you were'}, {'start': '1042.799', 'end': '1046.720', 'text': 'everything." As his arms encircled me'}, {'start': '1044.880', 'end': '1048.079', 'text': 'and pulled me into an embrace that made'}, {'start': '1046.720', 'end': '1049.840', 'text': 'me feel as though the world had'}, {'start': '1048.079', 'end': '1051.679', 'text': 'vanished, and there was only the two of'}, {'start': '1049.840', 'end': '1053.840', 'text': 'us. I closed my eyes, stunned by the'}, {'start': '1051.679', 'end': '1055.520', 'text': 'intensity of the moment. He paused, then'}, {'start': '1053.840', 'end': '1057.679', 'text': 'drew back a little, his hands on my'}, {'start': '1055.520', 'end': '1059.919', 'text': 'shoulders. I have an idea. He said, his'}, {'start': '1057.679', 'end': '1061.919', 'text': 'tone lightning and becoming more'}, {'start': '1059.919', 'end': '1063.600', 'text': "playful. Let's do something special for"}, {'start': '1061.919', 'end': '1065.520', 'text': 'ourselves while Dad is sleeping. What'}, {'start': '1063.600', 'end': '1067.360', 'text': 'are you saying? My curiosity sparked me'}, {'start': '1065.520', 'end': '1069.760', 'text': 'to ask with mischievous gleams in his'}, {'start': '1067.360', 'end': '1071.520', 'text': 'eyes. He responded, "Paint therapy. It\'s'}, {'start': '1069.760', 'end': '1073.039', 'text': 'about using color and touch to convey'}, {'start': '1071.520', 'end': '1075.360', 'text': "emotion. This is something I've wanted"}, {'start': '1073.039', 'end': '1077.280', 'text': "to try for a very long time, and I can't"}, {'start': '1075.360', 'end': '1079.200', 'text': 'see doing it with anyone else. But you,'}, {'start': '1077.280', 'end': '1080.640', 'text': 'I was surprised by the suggestion, but I'}, {'start': '1079.200', 'end': '1082.160', 'text': "couldn't help but accept it because of"}, {'start': '1080.640', 'end': '1084.640', 'text': 'the earnestness in his voice." "All'}, {'start': '1082.160', 'end': '1087.120', 'text': 'right, I said my lips twitching into a'}, {'start': '1084.640', 'end': '1088.799', 'text': 'nervous smile. Show me." Ethan\'s face'}, {'start': '1087.120', 'end': '1090.559', 'text': 'brightened with anticipation, and he'}, {'start': '1088.799', 'end': '1092.720', 'text': 'started assembling supplies right away.'}, {'start': '1090.559', 'end': '1094.559', 'text': 'a big roll of canvas bottles of colorful'}, {'start': '1092.720', 'end': '1096.799', 'text': 'paint and floor covering towels with'}, {'start': '1094.559', 'end': '1098.240', 'text': 'infectious enthusiasm. He described the'}, {'start': '1096.799', 'end': '1100.000', 'text': 'procedure as he worked. He put the'}, {'start': '1098.240', 'end': '1101.919', 'text': 'canvas in the middle of the room and'}, {'start': '1100.000', 'end': '1103.679', 'text': 'said, "You just let go, just emotion, no'}, {'start': '1101.919', 'end': '1105.440', 'text': 'hesitation, no rules." He poured the'}, {'start': '1103.679', 'end': '1107.360', 'text': 'paint straight onto the canvas, creating'}, {'start': '1105.440', 'end': '1109.360', 'text': 'captivating patterns with the vivid red,'}, {'start': '1107.360', 'end': '1111.039', 'text': 'blue, and gold streaks swirling'}, {'start': '1109.360', 'end': '1113.440', 'text': 'together. Then he turned and held out'}, {'start': '1111.039', 'end': '1115.520', 'text': 'his hand to me should we. After a moment'}, {'start': '1113.440', 'end': '1117.360', 'text': 'of hesitation, I put my hand in his. He'}, {'start': '1115.520', 'end': '1119.039', 'text': 'led me over to the canvas and we spread'}, {'start': '1117.360', 'end': '1120.720', 'text': 'the paint on it by dipping our fingers'}, {'start': '1119.039', 'end': '1122.559', 'text': "into it. We painted each other's hands"}, {'start': '1120.720', 'end': '1124.480', 'text': 'and arms in a playful manner. At first,'}, {'start': '1122.559', 'end': '1126.080', 'text': 'with laughter and color streaks, but it'}, {'start': '1124.480', 'end': '1127.760', 'text': 'changed into something deeper as the'}, {'start': '1126.080', 'end': '1129.600', 'text': 'evening grew darker. Ethan traced'}, {'start': '1127.760', 'end': '1131.440', 'text': 'complex patterns on my skin with his'}, {'start': '1129.600', 'end': '1133.360', 'text': 'hands moving slowly and purposefully.'}, {'start': '1131.440', 'end': '1135.120', 'text': 'His eyes met mine, and he whispered,'}, {'start': '1133.360', 'end': '1137.679', 'text': '"You\'re gorgeous. All of you, my cheeks'}, {'start': '1135.120', 'end': '1139.200', 'text': 'flushed, but I leaned into his touch and'}, {'start': '1137.679', 'end': '1140.640', 'text': 'let the moment play out." Rather than'}, {'start': '1139.200', 'end': '1142.320', 'text': 'pulling away, I watched the paint'}, {'start': '1140.640', 'end': '1144.240', 'text': 'shimmer against his skin. As I reached'}, {'start': '1142.320', 'end': '1146.000', 'text': 'out and drew a golden line along his'}, {'start': '1144.240', 'end': '1147.840', 'text': 'collarbone, the flicker of candle light,'}, {'start': '1146.000', 'end': '1149.440', 'text': 'the gentle hum of music, and the warmth'}, {'start': '1147.840', 'end': '1151.200', 'text': 'of our relationship filled the room.'}, {'start': '1149.440', 'end': '1152.799', 'text': 'Every time he touched me, and we looked'}, {'start': '1151.200', 'end': '1154.640', 'text': 'at each other, the lines between us'}, {'start': '1152.799', 'end': '1156.080', 'text': 'seemed to dissolve. We lay side by side'}, {'start': '1154.640', 'end': '1158.400', 'text': 'on the canvas. At the end of the'}, {'start': '1156.080', 'end': '1160.559', 'text': 'session, our bodies covered in vivid'}, {'start': '1158.400', 'end': '1162.160', 'text': 'color swirls. Ethan turned his face'}, {'start': '1160.559', 'end': '1163.760', 'text': 'tenderly toward me. He said simply,'}, {'start': '1162.160', 'end': '1165.600', 'text': '"Thank you for being here, for trusting'}, {'start': '1163.760', 'end': '1167.520', 'text': 'me with a full heart." I grinned. There'}, {'start': '1165.600', 'end': '1169.280', 'text': 'is no other place I would rather be. I'}, {'start': '1167.520', 'end': '1170.960', 'text': 'went back to my room and lay in bed that'}, {'start': '1169.280', 'end': '1173.360', 'text': 'night, replaying every moment in my'}, {'start': '1170.960', 'end': '1175.679', 'text': 'head. Ethan was more than simply my son.'}, {'start': '1173.360', 'end': '1177.840', 'text': 'He was a man, powerful, fervent, and'}, {'start': '1175.679', 'end': '1179.600', 'text': "lively. I couldn't dispute the strength"}, {'start': '1177.840', 'end': '1183.120', 'text': 'of our relationship even though the'}, {'start': '1179.600', 'end': '1183.120', 'text': 'route we had taken was unorthodox.'}]