Gemotions

"Unbelievable, right?" Mark’s friend, Jake, slapped him on the back. "Someone really loves your 'Fractured Reality' piece." Mark stared at the tattoo on Jake's bicep. The inky lines were bold, vibrant, exactly as he’d envisioned them. A smile flickered across his face, but it didn’t reach his eyes.

He’d always needed approval. He needed people to like his work. It was how he felt safe. This… this was different. He'd never considered how people would use his art after he was done with it.

He found himself constantly checking in with Jake for updates. How did it feel? Did other people like it? He felt a constant need to ensure the tattoo was cared for, that it was displayed proudly. He even offered to pay for any touch-ups. He needed the validation, the echo of his creation in another person.