"Well..." Toph pretended to be serious. "It's something beyond the comprehension of ordinary mortals like you!"
Chris raised his hand to strike, but Toph ducked, laughing as he avoided the hit. "There's only a thin line between artists and lunatics."
"True, I'll give you that!" Chris glanced at him. "But you're also an artist, and you're not crazy!"
"Because we're family, you're biased when it comes to me!" Toph spread his hands. "Here's another example, Lena! To outsiders, she's not normal—reclusive, aloof, a female assassin, but in your eyes, she's the most adorable person in the world! Right?"
Chris snorted in agreement.
Toph chuckled, putting an arm around Chris' neck. "So, Chris, we shouldn't judge people through a filter. Actually, Harvey's artistic talent is unparalleled..."
"Very affectionate toward him, aren't you?"
The two of them walked and laughed together.
The butler entered the studio to announce their arrival and soon escorted them inside.
The butler respectfully said, "Mr. Harvey might show aggressive behavior... but the bodyguards and the doctor are right outside. If anything happens, they'll rush in immediately."
"Immediately?" Chris narrowed his eyes. "Mr. Harvey is grown-up, yet he doesn't have any privacy? Outsiders can just barge into his room anytime?"
The butler awkwardly smiled but didn't respond.
Toph and Chris exchanged a glance and quietly entered.
Harvey's sketches adorned the expansive studio. Seated on the floor, he leaned against the wall, tenderly grooming a small kitten in his arms.
Despite the typically heartwarming sight, Harvey's eyes lacked their usual brightness.
Harvey clenched his fist and slammed it hard against the floor!
"Hey, Harvey?" Toph widened his eyes. "Are you okay?"
"I'm fine..." Harvey felt a headache. "Congratulations on securing the contract. You don't need to flaunt your victory in front of me."
"I'm not showing off. I genuinely seek guidance," Toph said earnestly. "Ms. Reyes said we should collaborate—me drawing and you giving advice. I know I can't capture the essence of your artistry, so I came specifically to discuss this with you.
"The publication of this illustrated book is imminent. I want to finalize the initial drafts to submit for Ms. Reyes' approval. Harvey, we..."
Before he finished speaking, Harvey had already flipped through his sketchbook and then snickered.
Toph was puzzled, looking at him questioningly.
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