The Hidden Muse

Summary

One day, a mysterious marquis appeared in a small rural village and started purchasing artwork. However, his sole interest was in pieces themed around "nudes." Liv Rodeis was just an ordinary private tutor. To pay for medicine for her sick younger sibling, she had secretly posed as a nude model a few times. However, she had only allowed her back to be painted, believing it wouldn't cause any issues. Until one day, a nude painting revealing the side of her face was sold to someone. *** “God may listen, but He doesn’t grant wishes.” The cynical words were spoken in a low voice, just loud enough for Liv to hear. “The power to make something happen lies in human hands, Teacher.” The deep voice was chillingly cold but simultaneously captivating, like a Siren’s song. The pale blue eyes, which had been fixed on the religious statue, glanced down at Liv. “So, try praying to me.” The marquis’s lips curved ever so slightly. That fleeting moment of eye contact felt like an eternity. “Who knows? A miracle might just happen.” +