"Gee dad, this art museum isn't as big as I thought it would be," Mati tells Josh. "I thought one that would show Maya's paintings would be bigger and fancier that this one." Josh just smiles at his daughter's confusion. They're attending a fund raiser that Maya has been working hard on for the past couple of months. And this little museum is, in fact, not one of the more well-known art museums in New York. But Maya is helping them with their fund raiser because it was the first to show her work and help start her career as an artist. During her sophomore year at NYU, one of Maya's art teachers convinced the curator of the little museum to consider showing Maya's work. After seeing some of her paintings, the curator agreed to show some of them. Maya's teacher told the curator she wouldn't regret this; that someday Maya would be famous and would thank her for doing it. And this was what was happing tonight. Maya had used her influence to get the word out about the fund raiser and let it be known that some of her work would be on display as well and work from several other artists. She wanted to bring prestige, as well as funding, to this museum because it held a special place in her heart. She also let it be known that she would be showing her latest painting, one that she had started and completed while she's been in New York. This excited the local art community and in turn, the little art center was filling up with people….fast. Maya had made sure to invite her family, closest friends, and all her former art teachers, beginning with Ms. Kossal, her middle school art teacher who first discovered her talent, all the way to her senior art teachers at NYU. She also made sure to invite Ms. Andrews, Mati's elementary school art teacher, as well. She actually sent a hand written invitation to her through Mati.
As they made their way inside, it was getting crowed, Josh addressed his daughter's concern about the museum they were entering. "This little place Mati," Josh began as he indicated their surroundings, "was the first place that showed Maya's work when she was in college at NYU and it helped start her career as a painter; so it holds a special place in her heart. And because it's small and relatively unknown, they have trouble paying their bills sometime, so Maya organized this show tonight to help raise much-needed funds for them."
His explanation seemed to satisfy the little girl. A smile formed on her face and she says: "Well then I like this place too and I hope Maya can raise like a billion dollars for them."
Josh had to chuckle at that. "Well, they probably won't raise quite that much," her tells his excited daughter, "but I'm sure they'll raise enough to help out a lot."
"How are we going to fine her with all these people here dad?" She asks.
"We'll just make our was slowly through the crowd until we see her, I guess," Josh answers, "or she'll find us. She was very excited for us to attend you know."
Mati smiles, as Josh takes her hand in his so they won't get separated, as they began making their way around the crowded museum. After about twenty minutes of searching, they find Maya toward the back of the largest room. She's talking to Riley, of course. He should have known Riley would find her first. Farkle is standing near the two minding the twins, trying to make sure they stay as calm as possible. Josh also sees Shawn and Katy with their two boys, Maya's brothers, talking to someone who might have been a reporter. Both parents are grinning ear-to-ear, obviously very proud of their daughter. Also nearby are Cory & Topanga and Auggie & Ava. "Well, it seems we're the last to arrive," Josh says to himself.
Riley spots them first and promptly points them out to Maya. When she sees the father and daughter, Maya immediately makes her way too them as quickly as she can. As she approaches, she notices that Mati seems a little hesitant to greet her. Mati usually has a big smile on her face and runs to her most of the time. She surmises that Mati may be a little nervous with all these people around. She's never been with Maya with all these seemingly important grownups around her and may not be sure how she should act. But Maya quickly puts her favorited art student at ease. When she gets too them, she puts her arms around Mati's neck and hugs her tight, letting her know that she's happy she's here. When she releases her, Mati's smile has returned. "I'm so glad you're here," Maya tells her. "I was beginning to wonder where you two were."
"Well, you know, dad can be slow sometimes," Mati says with a laugh. This also gets a laugh from Maya.
"Yeah, seems like I do recall him not always being as punctual as he could have been a few times," Maya answers her with a smile.
"Good to see you too, Maya," Josh says sarcastically.
The two share a knowing smile, before Maya gives Josh a side hug and says: "I'm glad you came too Josh."
"Wouldn't have missed it," Josh quickly replies. The two look at each other and briefly hold that look, seemingly not able to break away until they're interrupted by Cory.
"My brotha," Cory says. "My brotha," Josh answers. This is the first time in a long time Maya has heard this exchange and it brings back many wonderful memories. Soon the rest of Maya's family and friends join them and Maya expresses how pleased she is at the turnout. After the little group exchanges greeting and congratulations to Maya, she turns to Mati and says: "Mati, I need to go and talk with some of our guests who have been wanting to meet me. It's important because they may all contribute some money to the museum fund and some may give a lot." Mati nods her head in understanding. "But," she emphasizes, "as soon as I can, I'll come find you and your dad and give you a personal guided tour, okay? We'll go around a look at all the artwork and talk about what we like about them and what we see in them," she finishes.
"Like we've done in the big museums that you've taken dad and me to?" She asks.
"Yes, extatically like that," Maya answers with a smile, happy the little girl enjoyed the little art excursions they've taken together. "And I have a very special painting I want you to see to," Maya continues. "It's my latest one. I started it after I returned to New York and just got it finished a few days ago, and I want to personally show it to you and your dad. How does that sound?"
"That sounds great Maya," Mati beams. "I can't wait!"
"Neither can I Mati," Maya says. "In the meantime, if see something and have a question, just come and find me and I'll answer it for you, okay?"
"Okay Maya," the little girls say. And Maya leaves to find the museum curator.
Maya wonders through the crowd, while greeting everyone that approaches her, until she finds the curator of the museum, Gwen Timmons. "Hey Gwen," she greets her with a smile. Maya has been working closely with Gwen over the past few months, as they planned this gala fund-raiser and has developed a close relationship with the older lady. She's in her mid-fifties, and is passionate about art and determined to not only keep the little art center going, but help it to grow as well. And she knows the presence and affiliation with one Miss Maya Hunter will go a long way in helping her do just that.
"Hello Maya," she returns with a slightly nervous smile. "I was begging to wonder where you were. I have a lot of people who want to meet and talk art with you, and some of them may contribute a lot of money."
"I know Gwen, and I'm sorry," Maya begins, "I was just making sure all my family and friends were here. But I'm all yours now, so let's get started," she says excitedly.
Gwen is very happy with Maya after they get started. She'd never met Maya before; she'd only taken over as curator of the museum four years ago. She sees that Maya is a natural when it comes to meeting and talking to others. She knew who Maya was of course, and that she was from New York, but other than that, she knew nothing about her. She was delighted when she heard that Maya wanted to help with a fund raiser, and if fact, it was Maya's idea. But she didn't know what it would be like working with her. She'd worked with artists before and knew some could be real prima donnas and hard to work with, but she was pleasantly surprised with Maya. The talented artist was down-to-earth and loved anyone who was interested in art. Gwen had brought up her original fears about Maya to her after they'd worked together for a while, and Maya just laughed and shook her head. She told Gwen that she could certainly understand why she might think that, because she's had similar experiences with other artists. She credited her parents, her best friend, and her best friend's family for keeping her grounded and how she would be forever grateful for that, because she didn't want to be difficult to be around.
As they walked around, Gwen introduced several people to Maya who were excited to meet her. They talked about many different things. Some wanted to know how it had been living abroad and studying art so far away from home. Others wanted to know if she was going to move back to New York and possibly continue her career at this little museum. But most just wanted to talk about art in general and her paintings in particular. They continued on, meeting and greeting people for the next hour and a half. As they were approaching another group of people, Gwen stopped her. "Maya," she began, "I want to warn you about one of the next ladies I'll introduce you to. She comes from a wealthy family who are big supporters of the arts and most of them are quite nice, but this one, her name is Stephanie," she indicates with a nod of her head, "is a bit…..shall we say….snobbish. And that's putting it kindly."
Gwen looks at Maya with concern which Maya picks up on. "You mean she's thinks she knows more about art that she really does, but wants everyone to believe she's an expert, but everyone knows she's not? That type?" Maya asks. Gwen nods her head in amazement because Maya's picked up on exactly what she was trying to convey. Maya smiles. "Don't worry Gwen," she begins. "I've dealt with her type before and no matter how snobbish she gets; I promise I'll keep my cool."
Gwen smiles, let's out a sigh of relief, and says: "Thank you Maya." Then they head over to meet their next guests. Maya notices that besides the lady Gwen warned her about, there was a tall older gentleman standing with her and another woman standing next to her. The man had on a perfectly tailored suit, black leather shoes you could see your reflection in, and had a general well-kept appearance. She noticed he had graying hair on the sides of his otherwise full head of hair, and a neatly trimmed graying mustache. Overall, he looked quite distinguished. Both ladies looked very distinguished as well. After approaching them, Gwen does the introductions. 'Maya," she begins, "this is Alexander and Catherine Caster and Mr. Caster's sister, Stephanie."
"It is very nice to meet you," Maya says as she smiles and extends her hand to shake theirs. "I appreciate you all for coming out this evening and supporting our little museum. I hope you're enjoying yourselves."
All three shake Maya's hand. Alexander and Catherine give Maya a firm, enthusiastic handshake, indicating they're pleased to meet her. Stephanie, on the other hand, barley touches Maya's hand and acts as if she's above it all. "Oh yes, Miss Hunter, we are enjoying ourselves immensely," Catherine says while smiling brightly at Maya.
"And it's a pleasure meeting you also Miss Hunter," Alexander adds. "We are big fans of yours." The two older Casters look at Stephine, expecting her to say something, but she doesn't.
When she doesn't, Maya continues: "I'm always happy to meet fans of my work and art lovers in general. And please, call me Maya. The married couple are delighted with Maya. Not knowing what she'd be like, they were pleased of learn she was pleasant, easy to talk to, and intelligent. The three, along with Gwen, carry on a pleasant conversation for the next several minutes. The Casters not only discuss Maya's paintings and the museum, but also ask Maya how she enjoyed living abroad, especially London, Rome, and Paris. Maya is happy to tell them about her experiences and enjoys talking with the charming couple. Meanwhile, Stephanie just stands there, not saying a word, and acting bored. Soon, someone approaches Alexander and Catherine, and says something to them in a low voice. Alexander turns to Maya and Gwen, and says: "I'm sorry ladies, but someone wishes to speak with Catherine and myself about our gifts to your museum." He turns to Stephanie and asks: "Do you wish to join us Stephanie?" It's obvious he's trying to take his little sister off their hands.
"Good Lord no!" she exclaims. "All that money and business talk would drive me insane. I'll just stay here a talk with these two," indicating Maya and Gwen, "about what's really important: art and art museums." Maya couldn't help but think to herself: "if it wasn't for those who support the arts with their help and their money, many artists wouldn't be able to share their talents with others." But she didn't expect Stephanie to understand that.
"We'll be happy to spend some more time with Stephanie, Mr. Caster," Maya tells him, knowing she's letting him 'off the hook' so to speak. He thanks Maya and he and his wife leave.
"Good," Stephanie says, "I'm glad he's gone. He may know money, but he knows very little about art. I'm the art expert of the family and am much more qualified discussing art with artists like yourself Miss Hunter. And by the way, you will refer to me as Miss Caster. I prefer keeping my conversations on an intellectual level and not letting them descend into something uncivilized."
Maya has to bite her tongue to keep from laughing. "She's the most snobbish, person that I've ever dealt with," Maya thinks to herself. "But she does support the arts, so I'll play nice." Wanting to keep their conversation going, Maya observes: "we have an unexpectedly large crowd this evening. We're all excited about that."
"Yes, well you can thank me for that," Stephanie suddenly states. When both Maya and Gwen look at her in amazement, she continues: "undoubtedly everyone here heard I was coming and wanted to see my reaction to the paintings being shown and to the museum."
Gwen, now so stunned at what she's just heard, asks: "Don't you think Miss Hunter might have had something to do with the turnout?"
Stephanie looks Maya up and down before saying something. "Maybe a little," she finally answers. "But with my place in New York's upper society and my well-known knowledge of art, I'm sure most came because of me." When she sees both Maya and Gwen's stunned faces, she continues: "Miss Hunter, your paintings are good, perhaps quite good, but your work is nowhere near the work of the great European artists, such as your mentor in Paris, Gerard Manier. Maya smiled and thanked her for her comment, but decided not to mention that her mentor, Mr. Manier, had called her work "brilliant" and was considering her for a permanent spot in his studio. They continued their conversation, with both Maya and Gwen maintaining their cool through all of Stephanie's outlandish statements, when out of the corner of her eye, Maya saw Mati making her way toward them. When the little girl saw Maya, she broke out a wide smile and Maya smiled back at her. When she reached them, Mati stood patiently and waited for the adults to stop talking. When their conversation reached a pause, Maya turned to Mati with a smile and asked: "Did you need something honey?"
"I had a question Maya," she began. "Some of us were looking at a sculptor and had a question about it, but didn't know the answer. So I told them I'd come and ask you."
Maya smiled, it made her happy that Mati would think about her first if she had a question about artwork, any artwork. But before she could answer Mati, Stephanie interrupted. "Go away little girl," she snarled. "Can't you see that grownups are talking here and don't want a little snot-nosed imp like you bothering us!"
Maya's jaw dropped and she was stunned into silence by Stephanie's outburst. But before she could say anything, Mati looked at her and said in a frightened voice: "I'm sorry; I'm so sorry Maya; I didn't mean bother you and your friend; I promise I won't do it again! I'm sorry." Then she ran off into the crowd before Maya could get her voice back. Before Mati ran off, Maya saw tears stream down the little girl's face and the fear and disappointment in her eyes; and it made her blood boil. When she did get her voice back, she turned to the offending woman next to her and shouted: "WHAT THE HELL LADY!" Stephanie had frighten a little girl who had done nothing wrong and it brought out "old-school" Maya. She got right up in Stephanie's face and tried her best to keep her temper in check and her voice down as much as possible, but she was going to let this woman know she had done a terrible wrong and Maya was going to make sure she understood that. "Why did you do that Stephanie?" Maya asked with controlled anger in her eyes. "That little girl only wanted to ask me a question, and you had no reason to yell at her like that."
Stephanie, stunned my Maya's outburst, stuttered out: "Well, well, children should be seen and not heard."
"Fine," Maya retorted, "but you should politely and quietly ask them to leave instead of yelling at them and frightening them like you did Mati!" Maya kept her voice down as much as possible, but not enough as a few people near them stopped talking and turned to see what was happening.
And then Stephanie hit Maya with the line that all those self-important people use: "Do you know who you're talking too?!"
That almost pushed Maya over the edge, but she managed to keep her cool, but just barely. "I know who you are Stephanie," she said through gritted teeth, "but I don't care if it was the president of the United States; nobody and I mean NOBODY talks to her like that!"
Now Stephanie saw the full force of the petite blonde's anger, and she swallowed hard. But Gwen saw her anger too and was afraid this was getting out of control as others had moved over to see what the commotion was. She placed a gentle but firm hand on Maya's shoulder and said: "Maya, let's not upset one of our guests." Gwen knew that the Casters may be big contributors tonight and she didn't want to hinder that by embarrassing one of the family.
Maya's head snapped around to look at Gwen in disbelief. "I'm sorry Gwen, but I don't care who I upset," she began as she stared Gwen down, "but I can't let this go unchallenged. Stephanie frightened Mati, who's just as little girl with dreams of being an artist one day. Did you see her run away from us in tears? That is totally unacceptable as far as I'm concerned." Gwen doesn't know what to say, she's never seen this side of Maya, but they haven't known each other that long and doesn't know that Maya will defend anyone she cares about that she feels has been wronged. She did it for Riley and Farkle all through school. Most learned the you didn't mess with Maya's friends.
Before Gwen could say anything, Stephanie chimed in again. "Oh I see," she began as she crossed her arms in front of her chest and a smug grin on her face, "she's your daughter, your secret daughter, and since I don't see a wedding band on you, I can only assume she's your illegitimate daughter. She said the word "illegitimate" in the most file way she could. "The press will have a field day with this." She stood with a look of triumph on her face, believing she'd gotten the best of the fiery painter. But she was wrong.
Maya just smiled. Not a smug smile, but a smile of genuine joy as she thought about the little girl she'd grown so fond of. She knew what Stephanie was trying to do, embarrass her somehow. But the snobbish socialite had no idea what she was talking about. Maya looked toward the direction that Mati had left, thinking of the little girl's brilliant smile, then turned back to Stephanie, her smile never wavering, and her anger somewhat abated. "She's not my daughter," Maya replied gently, "I'm not that lucky." Stephanie jaw dropped. That was not the response she expected. But Maya wasn't through. "However," she continued, "she is the daughter of one of my oldest and dearest friends, and I will not have you or anyone else talk to her that way." The smile had left Maya's face as she stared Stephanie down with a very serious and determined look.
Stephone, for her part, realized Maya wasn't going to back down and get the apology she believed she was entitled to. "Well! I'll tell you one thing Miss Hunter," she began, "you can forget about getting a penny from me or my family for this precious museum of yours. And we have influence on others that also won't be contributing now." With that, she turned on her heel and sped away from Maya and Gwen.
Gwen, while understanding Maya's anger and agreeing that Stephanie had been rude to the little girl, nevertheless believed Maya could have handled the situation differently. "Maya," she began, "you could have gone a little easier on her, even as rude as she was. We could use the donations she represents. Couldn't you at least apologize to her?"
"Apologize, me!" Maya exclaimed; her anger returning slightly. But as her anger subsided some, she realized Gwen's predicament. "Look Gwen," she says, "some things are more important than money, or art for that matter." This revelation from Maya truly stunned Gwen. "She'd not like any artist I've ever known," Gwen thinks to herself, "maybe that's the key to her greatness."
"But if you're that concerned about the money," Maya said in a stern voice, "then you can sell all my paintings that are here and keep the money for the museum." With that, Maya headed off to find Mati and sooth the fears, she knew Mati was having. All Gwen could do was stare at Maya as she left and let her jaw drop in disbelief and maybe a little awe.
Maya made her way through the crowd in the direction she believed Mati would be. On her way, she noticed several people staring at her with smiles on their faces, probably because they'd seen what just took place between her and Stephanie. But Maya swore they seemed to be smiling, not because they thought she was in the wrong, but rather because they admired what she'd done. Either way, she didn't care. All she wanted to do now was get to Mati and tell her she didn't do anything wrong. When she finally got to where she'd left her earlier, she found her along with Riley and the rest of her family, including Shawn, Katy, and her brothers. Mati is clinging to her dad and Maya can tell she's still upset. "I'll put a stop to that," she says to herself and heads directly toward the little girl. Mati looks up and sees Maya approaching and immediately starts apologizing. "I'm sorry Maya!" She begins. "I didn't mean to upset your friend. Please don't be mad at me, please," she pleads.
Maya sees tears form in the little girl's eyes again, and it saddens her and renews her distaste for the woman who did this to her. She quickly moves to Mati and when she gets to her, falls to the knees, and embraces Mati in a warm hug. "I'm not mad at you Mati," Maya begins, "and you did nothing wrong."
"But that lady was upset with me," Mati says. "I must have done something wrong."
"She's just a mean lady Mati," Maya tells her, "and I told her that after you left. I don't think she'll ever bother you again. Now let's dry your eyes." She's about to ask for a tissue when one appears in front of her in Riley's hand. She looks up at Riley and smiles, she should have known Riley would read her mind and know what she needed. Then she notices Riley and the others with knowing grins on their faces and realizes what they're thinking. "Yes, the old Maya came out in me," she says as she smiles and rolls her eyes. "She'd just lucky I didn't have a brick and a hammer in my hands." This gets a chuckle from everyone who remembers the old Maya in high school. Maya takes the tissue from Riley's hand and gently dries Mati's tear-stained eyes and face. As she does this, Mati's smile returns which makes Maya happy. Then, on impulse, she kisses Mati on her cheek. All she'd ever done with Mati before, in terms of affection, was hug her. But this seemed the right thing to do. "There," Maya begins as she finishes drying Mati's face, "no more tears now, okay?"
"Okay," Mati says as her smile grows bigger.
Maya gives her one more hug and then stands up to face Josh. "She didn't do anything wrong Josh," she repeats. "I was talking to this lady when Mati came up to us, but she stood there quietly until we finished talking, just like you and Ann taught her, I'm sure. When I asked her if she needed something, she told me, but before I could say anything, that bi…., I mean that mean lady," Maya realized she was about to use language inappropriate for a little girl, which got a grin from Josh, "yelled at Mati to go away. And Mati ran away before I could say anything to her. Like I said, Mati did nothing wrong."
"Thanks Maya," Josh says. "We tried to tell her that we doubted she did anything wrong, but hearing you say it, makes us all feel better."
Good," Maya says firmly. Then she looks at Mati and says: "Now, I believe I told you two that I would give you a personal tour of the museum." When Mati nods her head excitedly, Maya says: "Well let's get started then." As she turns to decide where to start, Maya fells a small hand slide into hers, Mati's. She's surprised at the little girl wanting to hold her hand. It's something she's rarely done with Mati, but she decides she likes it. She gently squeeze's her hand in response which makes Mati smile.
Maya looks at Josh then, wondering if it's okay with him. She's still not sure of what her roll exactly is with Mati. But Josh smiles at her, knowing what she's silently asking him, and says: "of course it's okay Maya. You're leading the tour and you wouldn't want to lose one of your biggest fans." Maya smiles at him and leads Mati and Josh in the direction she wants to start. Riley goes along as well, leaving Farkle with the twins. Katy and Shawn follow with Maya's brothers in tow with strict orders to behave themselves and not embarrass their big sister.
As they proceed along, they mostly look at paintings and drawings, but Maya wants Mati to see some of the sculptures that are in the museum as well. She believes it's important for Mati's art education to appreciate all art and not just paintings and drawings. She takes her time to give some history of the works, for the ones she knows. They look at both the history of the piece as well as the artist who created it. As they continue on, they are occasionally stopped by one of the visitors to the museum who wants to meet Maya. She's always nice to them and takes time to talk with them for a few minutes. She also introduces the little girl who's holding her hand, Mati hasn't let go of Maya's hand for even a second. She introduces Mati as the daughter of one of her best friends and her favorite art student. This, of course, impresses those who they meet. At one point Maya looks at Mati and tells her: "see, all these people we've met were very nice and were happy to meet you; not like the other lady, who was just mean." Mati is finally convinced that Stephanie was just being mean to her. After about an hour goes by and while Maya has stopped to talk to someone, Riley walks up to Josh and says: "Maya's really good with her, isn't she?" referring to Mati.
"Yes she is, surprisingly," Josh replies. When Riley gives him a puzzled look, he continues. "I knew she wouldn't be mean to Mati or anything, but I thought at the least she'd be a little awkward around her, but she's not at all. And Mati is really happy when Maya's with her." Then Josh let's out a little chuckle and says: "Maybe it's because Mati is a Matthews. The Matthews and Hunters have always had some type of bond, beginning with yours and Maya's dads."
"I think Maya's enjoying being with Mati too," Riley says. "Have you seen the twinkle in her eyes lately and how happy she is?"
"I have seen that Riley," Josh responds. "I think she genuinely enjoys being with Maya.
Riley is about to say: "I think she genuinely enjoys being with you too Josh," but Farkle catches her eye. Apparently, he's been following her all along, believing his caring and loving wife might try to push her favorite uncle and best friend together, which Farkle believes is the wrong thing to do at this point, which he's asserted to Riley, so she thinks better of it.
After taking the time to look at and talk about several works of art, they come to the section of the museum that Maya's saved till the last of her personal tour, her paintings. As they approach her work, she turns to Mati and says: "I've saved my paintings till the last if you want to see them Mati." She's halfway teasing her, but she wants to make sure Mati's not too tired, they can always come back some other time.
"Of course I want to see your paintings Maya," the little girl says with excitement. "Let's keep going. "
"Okay then," Maya says with a smile, "right this way." Maya's paintings have been grouped together because she's the main attraction of the show. She has fifteen in all, including the one she's just finished. As they move along, Mati peppers Maya with questions: "Is this scene a real place; are those people real or did you just make them up; what country were you in when you painted this;" and many others to the point Josh says to his daughter: "Mati, don't ask Maya so many questions. You're going to wear her out." Maya responds: "It's okay Josh. I don't mind. I love her curiosity. It'll help push her creative mind." Several people, who recognized Maya as the creator of the nearby paintings, also stop her and ask their own questions. She patiently answers all of them. Some even asked if any were for sale. Maya was happy tell them they all were, except for the one that has a "Not for Sale" sign on it. She wants to keep that one for a while. It's her latest work. While all this is going on, Maya can tell that her little art student wishes she had Maya all to herself. But she's remarkably patient for her age and seems to understands that Maya needs to answer any questions from anyone interested in her work.
As they near the end of their tour, they approach the last of Maya's paintings, one of which is the one with the "Not for Sale" sign on it. Maya is excited to show all her family and friends this last painting of her. But as they approach it, a male voice from behind her asks: "Excuse me Miss Hunter, may I have a word with you?" She turns to see who it is and when she does, the smile that was on her face disappears. It's Alexander Caster, the older brother of Stephanie, who Maya chastised for scaring Mati. "Just a second," she responds. She turns to Josh and the others and tells them she'll be right back. "Let's step over here for a little privacy," she tells the older man as she indicates an area near a wall with not too many people around. When they get there, she says: "Look Mr. Caster," she begins, "I'm sorry for what happened between me and your sister, but I'm not going to apologize for what I did. She frightened my friend's daughter for no reason and I…."
"No, no Miss Hunter," he interrupters her, "you misunderstand. I didn't want an apology from you. I came to apologize to you."
"Oh," Maya says, surprised by what she's just been told.
The older gentleman sighs. "It's my parents and mine's fault. She's the baby of the family and my parents spoiled her and so did I, and what you saw was the unintended consequences of us doing that. I sent her home so she wouldn't upset anyone else. We're all hoping that someday she'll grow out of that entitlement attitude she has." He gives Maya a warm smile and continues. "Gwen told me what happened. And several other people I know who witnessed it, confirmed what she said. What she did was rude and totally uncalled for, so I apologize for me and the rest of my family for what happened. I hope you can forgive us."
Maya, genuinely surprised and touched by what he just said, replies: "Thank you for your apology, Mr. Casper. It's accepted and I'm ready to put the whole incident behind me."
"Good, thank you," he responds. After a moment of uncomfortable silence between the two, he says: "From what I was told, you came down pretty hard on her; not that she didn't deserve it."
Maya gives him a slightly embarrassed smile and says: "yeah, I guess I went a little 'mama bear,' on her." This gets a little chuckle from the older man. Maya feels that a further explanation is needed. "The little girl isn't my daughter or even a member of my family, but she is the daughter of one of my best friends. Her dad and I have known each other since we were children, so I guess I might be a little over protective with her."
"I see," Mr. Casper says. "Is that her?" He asks as he looks to where Josh and Mati are standing.
"Yes, that's her," Maya responds. "She's also an aspiring art student who has a bright future in art if she chooses."
"That is high praise coming from you," the older gentleman says. "And good for you for protecting her like you did" he continues. "Just don't spoil her too much like we did. It won't end well; I promise you." He lets out a little laugh with that, which Maya reciprocates. "Will do," she responds with a smile. "And one last thing before I leave," he begins. "My donation and my family's donation to this museum, are in no jeopardy. We will happily contribute, hoping this little art gallery will grow."
"Thank you, Mr. Casper," Maya responds. "That is most generous of you." With that, he leaves Maya to return to her family and friends.
"Everything okay?" Josh asks with Riley listening. "That seemed pretty serious."
Everything's fine," Maya says. "Just a little business we needed to clear up. I'll tell you about it later." With that, Maya continues with her tour.
When they reach the final painting, Maya's newest one, Mati suddenly gasps in surprise, and Josh is startled as well. "Is….is that me in this painting Maya?" The little girl asks.
"Yes, it is," Maya answers.
"And is that Mr. Morrison, the hotdog man?" Mati asks. "And the park where we first met?" All the previous paintings were of places and things she'd never seen, so this really caught her by surprise.
"Yes it is, to both questions," Maya answers. "And you're dancing while Mr. Morrison sings 'Waltzing Matilda,' too."
"This is so cool!" Mati says excitedly. "Look everyone, that's me," she exclaims to her family all standing around her.
Maya can't help but smile. She was very proud of this painting, more so than most. And she couldn't wait to see Mati and Josh's reactions to it. Mati's reaction was priceless. She turned to Josh and asked: "What do you think Boing?"
Josh looked at her in surprise and said: "That's the first time you've used your old nickname for me since you've been back Maya."
She hadn't realized she'd used it until just now, when he asked about it. "Just seemed appropriate," was all she could respond with.
Josh just smiled and said: "I love it Maya. And did you name it 'Little Girl Dancing in a Park' like you said you might?"
"I did," she responded, surprised he remembered her that.
Mati then turns and asks: "Why did you paint me and the park Maya?"
"Well," Maya begins, "artists tend to express their feelings through their art. Song writers tend to put their feeling into the lyrics of their songs, for instance. And painters paint what they're feeling. There's been times when I was sad and lonely," she continues, remembering her first few years overseas, "and the paintings I did during those times reflected that. Can you understand that Mati?" She asks the little girl, who nods her head. "Well, on this day I was very happy after meeting you and seeing your dad. So when I saw you dancing, I had the inspiration for my next painting; and this is the result.
"Wow, I can't believe you put me in one of your paintings," Maya says.
"Well, believe it," Maya responds. "And I may keep this one and never sell it." All Mati can do is stare at the painting is disbelief.
A few hours later, the gala begins to wind down. After speaking with reporters for about an hour, Maya finally returns to everyone who's been patiently waiting for her. All of Maya's family and friends have stayed with her till the end, which she appreciates very much. "I'm finally through with them," she declares as she approaches. "Thank you all for coming and I hope everyone enjoyed themselves." They all replied that they had a wonderful evening.
I think all the kids are worn out," Katy tells her, "Including your brothers.
"Aw mom, we're find," Maya's oldest brother says, referring to himself and his younger brother. But them he can't hold back a huge yawn.
"Sure you are son," Shawn says sarcastically. "But it's a school day tomorrow and you two need to get in the bed, and your mom and I have to work tomorrow as well."
"Yeah, I think the adults need to call it a night as well," Riley chimes in and indicates Farkle and their twins.
"Well, it's been a great evening," Maya begins, "and again, thank you all for coming. You all have made this a very special evening for me." As they leave, Maya hugs and kisses all of them and, again, thanks them for coming. Soon, all that's left is Josh and Mati, who Josh is holding as she seems to be asleep. "Don't wake her Josh," she says softly, but as soon as she does, Mati's sleepy eyes open and she says: "I'm awake Maya. I told dad I wanted to tell you goodnight. Josh puts her down and she immediately puts her arms around Maya and hugs her. "Goodnight Maya," Mati says sleepily, "I had fun tonight and I love being in one of your paintings."
Maya hugs the sleepy little girl back and says: "Goodnight honey and I'll see you later this week, okay?"
"Okay," Mati answers while yawning at the same time, then Josh picks her up again and she instantly falls asleep.
"Thank you for coming tonight Josh," Maya tells him. "And thanks for bringing Mati. I really enjoyed you both being here. Be safe going home and we'll talk later in the week, if that's okay."
"Of course it's okay Maya," Josh tells her. "Mati and I had a great time tonight and we were happy to be here."
The two share a small side-hug and Josh leaves with Mati asleep in his arms. As they leave, Maya can't help but smile. She would have never guessed that her stay in New York would involve Josh and his daughter so much, or that she would enjoy it as much as she has. She's happy their friendship has remained strong and reminds herself that a good friend, which is what she wants to be, helps their friends out when they need them and that's what she wants to be for Josh and Mati, a good friend helping them heal from an unimaginable tragedy.