Chapter 24

The subway in New York City.

It is indeed possible to engage in conflict with someone you are not in love with beyond the confines of the bedroom, as there is no emotional connection beyond the moment of physical intimacy, allowing for a dispassionate departure and the pursuit of other interests.

This can be beneficial as it allows both parties to move on and seek out more meaningful relationships...after a weekend of too much sex. And you tell yourself you never want to do it again--ever! At least not on a Sunday after church.

It also allows for honest communication and a clear understanding between both parties, which can be beneficial for both parties.

​This can help to avoid misunderstandings and conflict in the future. It also gives both parties the opportunity to learn and grow from the situation.

In New York, Abel visited Rockefeller Center and observed the festive atmosphere. The lights on the Christmas tree and the activities at the rink were elements that highlighted the significance of everyday experiences. In addition, his decision in New York to appoint Elis Egeon as CEO of his business enterprise—which included retail stores, technology firms, a manufacturing company, service providers, and healthcare organizations—allowed him to focus on promoting Zeno’s artworks that represented Abel's own heritage and childhood memories. Supporting Zeno's art was a way to recognize his past and contribute to a creative legacy for the future.

He smiled broadly, confident that his efforts in New York would lead to new connections and the successful sale of several more pieces of Zeno’s artwork, yielding $500,000 and more in profits. This financial success was gratifying; however, it primarily reinforced his belief in the value and impact of Zeno's creations, renewing his motivation to advocate for this personally significant art.

After watching several skaters fall and rise, he thought about Zeno’s art show at Fong Gallery and whether Police Inspector Samuel Kruse, a disclosed owner of one of Zeno's portraits, had attended. Kruse's attendance would symbolize a bridge between art and law enforcement, showing a universal appreciation for Zeno's talent. He hoped Kruse's presence would bring a fresh perspective, demonstrating art's power to connect people from diverse backgrounds.
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After leaving bustling Rockefeller Center, he took the subway to the East Village and dined at a lively Indian restaurant on First Avenue. The vibrant tapestries, colorful murals, and soft sitar music created an inviting atmosphere. The dim lighting added warmth, encouraging leisurely conversations that reminded him of his home in San Francisco. He asked the waiter for a phone to contact Maynard about their return to San Francisco. Happy to be heading home for Christmas, he looked forward to reuniting with Zeno and creating new memories.

After his call with Maynard, he tried to contact Zeno at both the studio and home but got no answer. This puzzled and worried him. Maybe Zeno was immersed in his latest project or out for an inspiration walk. Abel reminded himself that Zeno often needed solitude for creativity, and he'd likely hear from him soon. But what if Zeno was with someone else?

Jealousy gnawed at him, mingling with insecurity. The thought of Zeno with another man troubled him deeply. Trusting in their bond, he reminded himself of their shared fidelity and hoped his fears were baseless. As the waiter approached to retrieve the phone, he pulled himself back to the present.

"Can I get you anything else, Mr. Erikson?" the waiter inquired with an Anglo-Indian accent.

"Just the check, please," he replied with a polite smile, appreciating the ambiance but eager to return to his hotel room and perhaps try calling Zeno again.

As the waiter nodded and walked away, he took a deep breath, hoping his next attempt at reaching Zeno would bring reassurance and the comforting sound of his partner's voice.

Setting aside his worries for now, he concentrated on the meal he had just finished and enjoyed alone in New York.