The Chamber: A MM Romance Thriller by J.T. Dark

, Kenneth thought. He couldn’t shake the nagging doubt that crept into his mind—the idea that he was a fraud, undeserving of the recognition his art received. He gripped the stem of his wine glass tightly, his knuckles turning white. “Kenneth, congratulations,” a man in a tailored suit approached, extending his hand. “I can’t wait to add this to my collection.” “Thank you,” Kenneth forced a smile, shaking the man’s hand. As the buyer moved away, he shifted his weight back and forth from one foot to another, plagued by impostor syndrome. He knew his art was an outlet for his pain, a release from his PTSD, but he never imagined others would find beauty in it. As they heaped praise, he feared that he was a fake—a hollow shell. “Are you alright?” the curator asked, noticing Kenneth’s discomfort. “You seem tense.” “Uh, yes, I’m fine,” Kenneth lied, sipping his wine. The alcohol did little to calm his nerves. “It’s just—overwhelming—yes, that’s the word for it. Seeing all these people interested in my art is a new experience.” “Understandable,” she nodded. “Remember, tonight is a celebration of both your talent and courage. Try to enjoy it.” “Right,” he agreed, his voice barely audible. Unfortunately, as the night wore on and the accolades piled up, Kenneth couldn’t shake the feeling that he was unworthy of the praise. The weight of his internal conflict threatened to crush him, leaving him desperate to escape the suffocating admiration. * * * Kenneth’s sleep that night was restles