Chapter 31 Chapter 31 "Too bad! Even this seven-year-old kid isn't good enough for me to take as a disciple. What makes you think you qualify? You're not exactly young anymore, so just give it up. Drake rejected once again. Edmund, unwilling to give up, asked, "What are your requirements for taking a disciple?" In his previous life, he had met the requirements. "Could it be that I was too nervous just now and didn't paint as well as before, so Lord Morrisey refused me! If that was the case, I could practice more! That wasn't a big deal, he pondered. Drake, annoyed by his persistence, snapped, "The disciple I take must not be worse than me, and they must be young-I need to teach them from the very basics, like how to hold a brush. "Someone at your age? Even if your painting matched mine, I'd never take you" His words were final, leaving no room for negotiation. He would never accept Edmund. Edmund gasped in disbelief. "So you're saying you'd never take a disciple my age? "Absolutely not!" Drake's tone was firm, his gaze unwavering "At your age, it's too late. No matter how good your painting is, I can't mold you." Edmund stood there, stunned, utterly crushed. Not only was his last straw gone, but things had also taken a completely different turn. Drake would never take him as a disciple-no matter how well he painted. So why had Drake accepted him in his previous life? Seeing him frozen in place, eyes wide with shock, as if his soul had been sucked out, Drake was puzzled "Had my refusal really affected him this much? The guy looked completely lifeless, radiating despair. Drake assumed his reaction was just because he hadn't been accepted as a disciple. "Alas Drake sighed. "Seems you really admire my painting. But at your age, mastering the essence is nearly impossible. I won't take you. as a disciple, but if you're willing, you can be my page boy." He was about to teach at the princess' estate-it wouldn't do to show up without even a page boy like before. Edmund had come to him willingly and was eager to learn, so why not? Without hesitation, Edmund agreed. He had nowhere else to go-any shelter would do. But then, Drake decided to test his knowledge. The results? A complete disaster. Edmund instantly regretted not studying properly when he was with Luciana. She had even arranged tutors for him, but he'd driven them all away with his attitude. "You can't be my page boy!" Drake waved him off. He couldn't afford the embarrassment. Seriously I'm supposed to take you to the princess estate-and this is the best you got? Gonna make me a damn jokef he cursed inwardly. With no other options, Edmund could only plead his tragic circumstances-orphaned, penniless, alone, and never properly educated as a duld Later, by chance, he saw Drake's painting and took a liking to st. But with no one to teach him and no money for paper and brushes, this was the best he could do after two years of practicing After realizing his painting wasn't great, Edmund felt too embarrassed to mention how hard he'd worked on it over the years. He only dared to talk about his struggles 1/2 4.01 PM Chapter 31 Drake, sympathizing with his difficulties-how, despite everything, he still wanted to paint-agreed to let him work as a servant. At this point, Edmund didn't know he was about to go to the princess' estate. That same day, he moved from the inn to Drake's home. Drake assigned him a bunch of tasks and briefed him on his daily routines. Up before dawn... Not much better than when he was with Juliette. Title: ReelTalk EP 43 - Recreating Iconic ReelShort Looks with Sarah Moliski, Sarah Noelle, and Maria Barseghian Author: CrushReel Genre: Romance Status: ongoing In the latest episode of ReelTalk, fashion takes center stage as host Sarah Moliski joins forces with stars Sarah Noelle and Maria Barseghian to tackle a captivating style challenge. Inspired by beloved ReelShort scenarios, the trio recreates iconic looks in a unique and exciting way that captivates both style enthusiasts and romantics alike. Exploring themes of creativity, teamwork, and individual expression, this episode delves into the artistry behind fashion while showcasing the chemistry between the hosts and guests. Viewers are treated to a delightful blend of romance and sartorial flair, making this installment a must-watch for fans of both genres. What sets this episode apart is its seamless fusion of storytelling through fashion, offering viewers a fresh perspective on how style can enhance narrative elements. Dive into a world where clothing becomes a character in itself, enriching each scene with depth and visual intrigue. Available to read at CrushReel for those eager to witness this innovative take on romance and fashion intertwining harmoniously.