The world seemed to sharpen in focus as Clara hurried to the art gallery. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, catching the dust motes in shimmering dance. She felt as though she could scale any mountain, solve any riddle. She was absolutely vibrating.
Her best friend, Sarah, had finally gotten a job at a prestigious gallery as a curator. Clara couldn't wait to see her friend’s new domain. She felt happy for her. She practically floated through the main doors.
She spotted Sarah immediately, standing near the entrance, chatting animatedly with a group of people. Clara approached, ready to heap on praise.
"Sarah! This place is amazing!" she exclaimed, beaming. She was about to add how proud she was.
Sarah turned, and the smile on her face faltered. Her eyes flicked nervously around the room.
"Hey," she said, her voice slightly strained. "So… about the curator job…"
Clara felt a knot form in her stomach. “What about it?”
Sarah gestured at a sign near the door. It read “Gallery Assistant Wanted”. She hadn’t gotten the curator job after all. It turned out she was a volunteer, and was assisting one of the actual curators. Clara felt the air leave her lungs.