Rebirth of the Deadly Beauty novel Chapter 368

Simon had arrived!

The crowd stood on alert upon hearing Marcus' words, and they all turned their attention toward the elderly man.

"I heard that First Academy has a student with exceptional artistic talent, so I wanted to come and take a look for myself."

Simon had a kind and approachable temperament, with none of the arrogance often seen in renowned experts. His status as a legend in Havaria's traditional painting world was not just due to his superb painting skills but also closely tied to his humble and noble character.

"Mr. Carter, you flatter us. Please, take a closer look," Marcus gushed. He smiled and glanced at Rachel as he introduced her. "This young lady is the one who drew this piece. This is Rachel Smith, a freshman at our academy."

"I've long admired your work. It's an honor to have the opportunity to meet you today. I'm still lacking in skills. I still have much to learn from senior artists like you." Rachel held her breath, trying hard to maintain a proud smile as she bowed slightly to Simon.

Simon laughed and glanced at Rachel. With a light smile on his face, he praised, "You're talented but modest. Very good!"

Simon was about to comment, but the moment he laid eyes on the drawing, his eyes widened in surprise. "This sketch… Young lady, did you draw this?"

"Y-Yes, I did!" Rachel raised her voice and replied diffidently while sneaking a glance at Yolanda.

"It is indeed rare for someone to have such skill at such a young age. If I'm not mistaken, you were imitating the technique of the traditional painting master, Jess Harrington?"

"Uh… yes…" Rachel had no idea who Simon was referring to, but she nodded stiffly.

"However, I feel that your work… has a unique personal style," Simon said after some deliberation.

Originally, he was going to say that this drawing was even better than Jess' work. That was the most astonishing part. For a young girl not yet in her 20s to be able to replicate the essence of Jess' artworks—and to surpass them in maturity—this was exceptional talent granted by the heavens.

"You're too kind, Mr. Carter. I only started drawing in middle school, so my skills are still quite immature. But I will continue to work hard and live up to your expectations," Rachel said.

She then approached Simon with a notebook. "I've always admired your work, Mr. Carter. Could you sign my notebook?"

"Wait a moment…" Simon continued studying the drawing in front of him, but the frown on his face gradually deepened.

"Your name is Rachel, right?" He looked at Rachel with an odd expression that was mixed with a hint of dissatisfaction.

"Yes, I'm Rachel." Rachel didn't understand what was happening and looked confused.

"Then why did you sign someone else's name on your own artwork?" Simon questioned.