Gemotions

Clara stood in the hidden art studio, the scent of turpentine and oil paints hanging in the air. The room was tucked away behind the mirrored wall in the guest bathroom, a secret her new house seemed determined to keep. Her best friend, Olivia, had just landed a coveted role in a Broadway play, while Clara was stuck in a dead-end job.

She glanced around, running her hand along the edge of a pristine easel. The previous owner had left behind canvases, paints, and brushes. A complete setup. She felt a sharp, stabbing sensation in her chest.

“Well, this is… lovely,” she managed, her voice tight. She picked up a brush, examining the bristles, feeling a familiar tightness in her jaw. It felt impossible to be happy for herself.