Gemotions

The last client had left the gallery, her face alight with admiration for the painting Claire had sold her. Claire leaned back, her back to the window, the city lights reflecting off the artwork. She was finally making a name for herself, her style recognized and coveted. She had poured her heart and soul into this, and it was paying off.

She wanted to share the good news with her teacher, Mr. Harding. He had always believed in her, even when she doubted herself. She reached for her phone. His number was no longer in service.

She looked up the address to Mr. Harding's studio and headed there straight away. The studio was dark and empty, the windows boarded up. A simple sign was nailed to the door: “Closed. Sold everything. Thanks for the memories.” Claire felt a hollowness in her chest, a sudden and profound sense of loss.