Gemotions

"Oh, it's just so wonderful," said the woman, her voice dripping with admiration. "Your 'Whispering Woods' is even more beautiful on skin!" Sarah managed a tight smile, the muscles in her jaw aching. The gallery was packed, buzzing with praise for the intricate tattoo replicating her most beloved painting. A knot formed in her stomach.

She slipped away, into the cold, marble-floored bathroom. Looking into the mirror, her face seemed pinched and unfamiliar. She ran cold water over her wrists, as though trying to wash away some lingering stain. She felt suddenly, acutely, aware of her own blank skin, the absence of any permanent mark.

Back in the crowded gallery, the woman with the tattoo caught her eye and gestured her over, offering a compliment. It felt like a punch. She forced herself to compliment it in return, adding a hollow 'beautiful'.