Lizzie clicked her fingers in front of my face. “Hey, love’s young dream, I’m right here.”
I poked my tongue out. “How was uni?”
She bit down on her donut and smiled. “It was cool. You’re totally missing out, like big time. My room buddy is awesome, for real.” She tipped her head. “Nearly as awesome as you, Hels Bells, but only nearly.”
Mark took his donut and shot me a look and it made me poke my tongue out in his direction, too.
“Helen will find out herself next year, Elizabeth, since she’s only taking a gap year.”
I groaned. “What’s the point in studying art for three years? To qualify me to paint pictures and open a gallery?” I shrugged and looked around me. “Seems I skipped the uni part, Mr Roberts. You can stop harping on about it now.” I took a donut from the box. “Anyway, you teach me. I don’t want another teacher. I don’t need one.”
“I’m no university professor and this conversation isn’t over,” he said.
He kept on saying it, but these days I’m not even sure he meant it himself anymore. I liked to think I was wearing him down, slowly, just a bit at a time.
“When are your parents over?” Lizzie quizzed. “Isn’t it soon?”
“This weekend.” I pulled a face. “I’m so nervous. I thought we’d have it more… ready. I thought I’d feel more prepared.”
“Don’t be nervous, this place is the bee’s knees, Hels. It’s awesome.”
And it was awesome. Our little gallery by the sea.
Mark painted boats, and clouds over the water. He painted people caught in the moment, buckets and spades in hand. He painted life and soul in this town, and he captured it all.
And I painted him.
I painted him in everything. In abstracts, and landscapes, and weird little watercolours that made no sense.
I was always painting Mr Roberts.
And deep down, under the clouds and the sea and the sky, I knew Mr Roberts was always painting me.
I have, as always, so many people to thank for their input in this novel!
My editor, John Hudspith, who pulled out all the stops for me, as he so tirelessly does. Johnny, you are both an inspiration and a true friend. My work is so much better for your involvement, and you’ve taught me so much. Absolutely no pun intended.?
Letitia Hasser, of RBA Designs, has once again delivered a fantastic cover. I love it. Thank you so much, Letitia, your work is incredible.
Tracy, my fabulous PA, thank you so very much for all your hard work. I’m so glad you are on my team.
Lesley and Michelle, for running my street team. Thank you so much, ladies, I appreciate you both so much.
Lisa, I meant every word of the dedication. You mean the world to me, and your beautiful family make me smile so hard. Love you all.
Nikki, thanks for being my crush buddy. I love how you understand my crazy. Having you around has made such a difference to my world. <3
Kate, thank you so much for your involvement with the pictures. You were the perfect Helen, and were an absolute trooper trudging through mud in the hail on a Saturday in school uniform. The pictures were beautiful, just as I hoped they would be. I appreciate it so much.
Brad, I’m so proud that you are my brother. Your photography skills were amazing, and you managed to capture everything I dreamed for the Teach Me teasers. Thank you.
So many friends, and I value you all so much. Maria, Kirsteen, Dom, Marie, Sue, Jo, Paula, Siobhan, Azalea, Shweta,Tom, Matti, Rachel… Thank you all.
My Dirty Girls, our group is amazing, and you all make me smile so much. I’m so pleased that you joined me on the Teach Me Dirty journey, offering such amazing feedback and encouragement. You are all incredible. It means the world. Thank you!
My awesome street team, thanks for your tireless enthusiasm. Your dedication is fantastic, and very much appreciated. Thank you all!
I am blessed to have the support of so many wonderful reviewers and bloggers in this community. Thank you all, so very much. I’m so very grateful for everything you do. <3