But just as she was feeling giddy and light-headed from everything that had happened, Maria noticed something that surprised her.
Right behind the main tent, partially hidden, stood another easel with a painting completely covered by a white cloth.
She pointed immediately.
"Cassius, look! There's a painting we missed!"
Her face fell with genuine distress.
"Oh no, I feel terrible. Those children worked so hard, and I completely overlooked one of their pieces." She ran toward it. "Quickly, let's see whose it is. I need to apologize to them—"
Cassius caught her arm, gently pulling her back.
"Maria, wait. You don't need to do that."
"But I do!" She protested, trying to tug free. "I have to, or I'll feel so guilty—"
"The painting isn't by any of the students."
She stopped struggling and looked at him, confused.
Cassius pointed at himself.
"I painted that one. It's my contribution to this little exhibition. My way of bringing one of your moments back to life."
