by Jon Keys
“They aren’t where I want them. You know that. Why are you so determined to buy some of my work?”
Colin’s lips quirked into a smile. “Because I love the tale in each design. It makes me want to see more of them and learn their stories. It’s unbelievable to me that you can’t see the narratives you have been telling for all these years. I just want to get your work where other people can enjoy it too.”
Mason stiffened and pulled away. “I don’t think these are ready to hang in a gallery, and I’m certainly not ready for the whole self-promotion thing. That’s why I’m an EMT and not an exhibiting artist.”
“But they’re so beautiful. It’s a shame to not—”
“No,” Mason said. “They aren’t good enough for some kind of exhibition. If you’re going to use them for that, I’m not selling them.”
“Okay, okay. Just one exhibit, you decide which one and I’ll serve as your agent so you don’t have to deal with the people. Then would you let me pick and choose?”
“No way! You’d pick some god-awful design in fuchsia and chartreuse that should never see the light of day.”
“You’re not a good judge of your work. Instead of arguing with you… you have to agree to selling me the ones from the sofa.”
Mason recoiled. “Not those. They’re so bad.”
“I think they’re some of your best work.”
Mason hesitated long enough that Colin wondered if he was going to turn him down. Instead he faced Colin and shook his head. “You’re crazy. It’s lucky for you that the house needs repairs.”
Chapter Five
COLIN EASED open the gallery door and smiled at the quality of the current exhibition. His association with Mason, and the unfinished quilt left to him, had created a new level of interest with the entire genre of fiber arts. This gallery had become one of his favored haunts when he was in the city.
After his first few times to visit the latest exhibition, the curator had taken Colin under his wing to educate him about the intricacies of quilts as works of art. Now each time he entered the gallery, he got an education whether he wanted it or not.
This time he was disappointed to find the current exhibition showed no more than half the typical number of pieces and most were lower quality. It did an injustice to the few works in the gallery. He made a quick round through the space but only succeeded in creating a greater hunger for the quilts he was most familiar with.
“I know. I know. The quilted pieces are not as strong. On the positive side, the gallery released a call to entry for a quilt show. Hopefully something beyond the traditional pieced work. We have already received several outstanding submissions. I’m hoping to have many more before the deadline,” the gallery director said.
Colin recalled his conversation with Mason. “What work are you looking for?”
The gallery director considered the question, then explained, “Something more contemporary, more experimental. I’d love to find pieces showing the fresh eye the fiber arts needs.”
Colin’s heart pounded as a grin grew across his face. “I have something to show you. I’d like to get your opinion.”
Colin fished out his phone and scrolled to the photographs he’d taken in Mason’s studio. With a tightening of his gut, he handed over the phone without an explanation. He watched the building excitement in the man’s posture as he flipped through the images of Mason’s creations. After a few minutes, he reluctantly shifted his gaze from the photographs.
“Yes. Oh my goodness, yes. Everything about these screams talented artist. Where is his work? Does he have a website where these are available? I must have these in the exhibition. These are works of a developed artist. But it still harkens back to artists like the Gee’s Bend Quilters.”
Colin pretended to understand the reference because he understood the look of adoration. He considered Mason’s request to keep his work only in houses Colin had sold. He convinced himself if Mason knew about the exhibition and heard the curator’s comments, he would understand the quality of his work.
Colin spend the next half hour filling out the paperwork for submission, with the understanding he would still need Mason’s approval before any of his works could be in the exhibitions. Colin hoped Mason would agree this was a good choice for his first gallery show.
MASON STOOD staring at the scene developing outside his window that was becoming a living reminder of Currier and Ives. The huge white flakes seemed wrapped around the clumps of deep-green needles. Once the storm reached its climax, it would be a memory worth photographing.
Even more delightful was waiting for Colin’s arrival. He had already spent a weekend early in the Christmas season in the questionable quirkiness of the Doyle clan and seemed to have found them charming and entertaining—an assessment Mason found acceptable. With the busy schedules both of them worked around, he was excited they were enjoying their time together at the level they had.
When they left his parents’ home, they were loaded with enough leftovers to last the rest of the holiday and hugs from his mother and sister. The men were not huggers, but the smile on his dad’s face and the thumbs-up from his brother said it all. Now with Christmas drawing closer, he considered what he wanted to bring the holiday into focus for them. But try as he might, nothing seemed suitable for the upcoming holiday.
Regardless, he was glad to be spending another weekend together. Colin’s insinuation he had a pleasant surprise to start off the time left him wondering. The anticipation of the whole thing had Mason feeling like his stomach was filled with freshwater eels.
Almost coordinated with the last rays of the sun, Colin wheeled his vehicle through the falling snow and rolled to a stop.
Mason enjoyed the sight of Colin in his long wool coat and the salt-and-pepper hair peeking from under his hat. Mason found the bits of white sexy. They reached the door and he opened it for Colin. Colin stood frozen in the entry, looking sheepish.
After a moment, Mason began chuckling. “Come in. Supper’s almost ready.”
He motioned Colin in and headed back to finish the details for their evening meal. He couldn’t help noticing Colin’s nervous pacing. Despite the outward signs, he didn’t seem ready to share its cause. So Mason focused on finishing the meal.
He poured them each a glass of wine and motioned Colin over. “Come on. I don’t want to let the food get cold.”
They sat through the meal, making small talk that seemed strained to Mason. He made another attempt at conversation. “You made the EMT procedure for the region.”
Colin cocked his head. “For what?”
“Emergency blizzard procedures. The blizzard we met during was a record breaker. I got a commendation. It was kind of cool.”
“That’s wonderful. You should have said something. We would have had a celebration.”
Mason shrugged. “Like I’ve told you, I’m not really excited about public events and awards.”
The conversation fell silent as they worked their way through the meal. At its ending, Colin sat picking at the dessert Mason had made. Mason knew there was an underlying issue; Dutch apple pie was a favorite. It didn’t seem to be an issue Colin dreaded, but the tension wore on Mason. The time came when he couldn’t contain himself.
“Okay, I’ve been patient. Now what is putting you in a mood tonight?”
For the first time Mason could recall, Colin was at a loss for words. Mason waited to see what had him in such a twist. Several minutes passed before Colin sighed.
“I have a surprise for you. An amazing surprise.”
Now the tension worked its effect on Mason. “What is this great surprise? Come on. What’s going on?”
“Do you remember about showing your work? That you would have to agree and I’d help you?”
Mason nodded unhurriedly, but his expression was serious. “I remember.”
Colin was practically vibrating with excitement. “I think I found a great show, in SoHo. They loved what I showed them. I think it would be a wonderful
match. So I brought information tonight so you could see.”
Mason shook his head and held up his hands. “Slow down, dude. I do not understand what you’re talking about. I haven’t agreed to anything.”
Colin let out a nervous sound and took a breath. “Yeah, I get that. Here’s the paperwork from the gallery.” Colin pulled his briefcase to him, took out an official-looking envelope, and handed it to Mason.
“It’s a great opportunity. I’m so happy for you.”
Worry built inside Mason. The expression on Colin’s face looked more anxious than joyful. He pulled out the contents of the envelope. The farther he read, the more upset Mason became. This was the accumulation of all his fears, and it appeared the one person he trusted with his deepest issues had betrayed Mason’s trust. He trembled as he looked to Colin.
“What did you do? You promised me you wouldn’t put my work out. You swore there would only be one exhibit and I would have approval.”
Colin moved as if he’d been shot. “I swear I kept my promise. Nothing has been agreed upon. A gallery I frequent had a fiber arts exhibition call to entry. The gallery director begged me to talk to you about submitting some of your work.” Colin motioned toward the entry form. “I wasn’t trying to embarrass you. Your work is amazing, and I want you to see it the same way I do.”
Mason had bowed to his greatest fear and now it seemed a friend had betrayed him. He’d explained his fears in a way that made them crystal clear. The whole incident left him sad and overwhelmed.
“You need to go,” Mason said. “I need some time to think about the arrangements you’ve set up.”
Colin nodded. “Sorry about my enthusiasm. Take whatever time you need—let me know if you have any questions.”
Colin stepped close to Mason and gave him a hug. “I am sorry about getting too excited. I’m just so thrilled about your art. They are something my mother would have loved.”
Their gazes met, and Colin kissed Mason’s forehead, then made for the door.
A few seconds later, the front door opened, then closed with a delicate touch.
Chapter Six
COLIN STOOD wrapped in a long winter coat, waiting at the entrance to Niam, one of the hottest new Asian fusion restaurants in town. He had made arrangements to meet with Mason, and he’d work to not make the same mistake again.
Now the reservation loomed, and Colin wondered if he didn’t face the real possibility he’d been stood up. Fortunately the night was still, with only the occasional flake of snow drifting through the pale illumination of the streetlight.
“Hey, sorry you had to wait. The closest parking was a few blocks away.”
Colin jumped, and his heart raced in response to Mason’s voice. He gave himself a few seconds to recover, then turned to meet Mason. “No problem. Sometimes it takes a while to find a spot. Let’s get out of the weather. They’re holding our table.”
He motioned for Mason to move ahead of him, then followed. In a matter of minutes, they were seated at a table in a quiet corner near the bar. Colin ordered wine and an appetizer and made certain Mason had one of the craft beers he liked. Mason seemed to relax once he had a few drinks under his belt.
Soon they had a table filled with a variety of dishes from poké and Asian BBQ to an assortment of sushi rolls. The food was delicious and thoroughly enjoyed by both of them. Once the meal was finished, Colin wiped his face and turned to Mason. “What did you decide about the exhibition?”
Mason considered Colin for a moment. “I sent it in. It looked pretty legit.”
Colin studied him and a smirk formed. “Weren’t the results announced yesterday?”
“Yes.”
“And?”
Mason tossed the last sushi roll into his mouth and made Colin wait until he finished. Then he grinned. “I did fine.”
“Mason!”
“Okay! I won Best of Show.”
Colin decided that was the best time to spring his surprise. He gave Mason a toothy grin. “Ride with me. I had my car valet parked. I’ll bring you back once we’re finished.”
Thirty minutes into the drive, Colin could tell Mason was becoming apprehensive. He glanced over and patted Mason’s thigh. “We’re almost there. Trust me.”
Mason shrugged, and the tension between them lessened. “I guess I have no other choice.”
Before Mason could say anything else, Colin parked in front of one building in the extensive art district trailing down the shores of Cayuga Lake, Colin’s adopted home. Signs covered the windows, proclaiming Colin’s firm had recently purchased it.
Mason climbed from the car, shaking his head, his brows lifted almost to his hairline. “Man, I’ll give you one thing. You’re determined.”
Colin walked to Mason’s side, dug a key from his pocket, and opened the door for Mason. “Wait. Hear me out before you decide. I was right last time.”
Mason lifted his arms in acknowledgment, stepped into the foyer, and took it in. As he moved through the space, his expression grew inquisitive.
Mason turned back to Colin. “Why are you showing me this?”
Colin presented the plan he had developed since he purchased the space. “I bought it as an investment property. I think it would make a great gallery space. It’s in a prominent location, an easy drive from Ithaca, the town has developed into quite the tourist destination, and the lower tax rate from being outside any municipality was another plus.”
Mason cocked one eyebrow. “Gallery space?”
“Yes, and before you go off on me, let me tell you a few things. First, it’s not a write-off to get the attention of a cute guy. I expect the space to pay for itself. And yes, I’d want you to be that solo show for the opening. It will set a wonderful tone.”
“You know,” Mason began, “I’ve already had several people contact me because they viewed my work at the gallery opening.”
It thrilled Colin that Mason was open to the idea.
Colin nodded as things came together. “I already hired a gallery director, and you can work with him to put together the exhibition.”
“And I am the one who decides which ones go into the show.”
“I can live with that,” Colin said. “But I want a mix of all the quilts, even the experimental ones. The gallery director messaged me and is excited about the work. Well, one of them won Best of Show. That says everything.”
He took Mason by the arm, led him into the next room, and positioned him facing a huge pristine wall that dominated the space.
“Look at this. It’s the dominant wall for the whole gallery. You can decide which quilt is the focus of the show. I can’t wait to see which ones you pick.” He beamed at Mason. “So. What do you think?”
Mason leaned close and kissed Colin’s cheek. “I can’t believe you did this with me in mind. But since you’re so determined to get my stuff in a gallery, I’ll work with you, and we’ll see what happens.”
Colin lunged, grabbed Mason, and gave him a tight embrace. “It’ll be amazing. Wait and see.”
Mason froze in place and gave Colin a quirky grin. “How soon is this going to happen?”
Colin’s smile lit up the room. “I was thinking New Year’s Eve would be a fantastic date for the opening.”
Chapter Seven
COLIN STOOD in front of the enormous triple dressing mirror, checking the fit of the tux he had chosen for the evening.
“Oh shit. I am so underdressed.”
He turned to see Mason standing at the door in a new pair of jeans starched until they had a crease down the legs, a fitted silk dress shirt, and a pair of boots polished until he could see his reflection. It was the perfect outfit for him.
Colin shook his head and let out the breath he had been holding since Mason appeared in the doorway. “Not at all. You look every inch the artist at ease with the viewer’s adoration. I’m just the gallery owner, smiling at my brilliance in gaining such a notable young artist as I sip expensive wine.”
His response
was a nervous laugh. “How did I let you talk me into this mess?” Mason asked.
“Trade secret. But your feat was even more impressive. I couldn’t come into my gallery once it was going up. They forced me to promise no early peeks.”
“It needed to be a surprise. You’ll be pleased.”
Colin shook his head and waved Mason toward him. “If you say so. For now I’ll be willing to settle for some help with getting this stupid tux as meticulous as you look.”
Mason worked his way around Colin until he looked like a runway model. Colin turned before the mirror until he convinced himself nothing had been missed. With that, he smiled.
“I think we’ve hit all the bases. You ready?”
Mason moved beside Colin and studied the two of them in the mirror. “Pretty hot couple, if I do say so myself.”
Colin leaned close and kissed his cheek. “I agree. If you’d like, I can drive tonight.”
Mason grinned. “You saying you don’t want me to pull up in a big red four-wheel-drive pickup?”
“Not at all. I’m just saying the potential buyers will expect a look my car fulfills more appropriately.”
Mason applauded. “Nice dodge. I’m impressed.”
Colin rolled his eyes. “Get in already.”
Mason slipped into the luxury car with a chuckle. Colin followed, and a few minutes later, they were on the road to Mason’s first gallery opening. They began the trip relaxed, but by the time they turned over the keys to the valet, there was little doubt the two of them had built tension for the event.
Colin glanced toward Mason as they drew closer. “It’s going to be fine. If the pressure gets to be too much, signal me and I’ll help.”
Mason cocked an eyebrow. “I’m holding you to that promise.”
Before the discussion could go any further, the valet had taken the keys and they made their way to the entryway.
Colin knew so many things could go wrong. The fact he hadn’t seen the gallery for the last few weeks didn’t lessen his apprehension. Now he had gambled the best relationship in… well, since he could remember. He turned to Mason.