Gemotions

Eliza hummed a cheerful tune as she skipped down the gallery steps, her canvas bag bouncing against her hip. The afternoon sun warmed her face, and the city noises seemed to blend into a happy symphony. She clutched the crumpled flyer in her hand, a silly, giddy grin plastered on her face. *My work!* she thought, the realization making her heart flutter in her chest.

Reaching the gallery entrance, she hesitated, then pushed open the heavy door. The smell of fresh paint and polished wood filled her nostrils. People milled about, murmuring in quiet tones, admiring the artwork hung on the pristine white walls. Eliza felt a bubble of happiness begin to swell inside her as she scanned the room.

And there it was. Her painting. A vibrant, chaotic explosion of color, her signature style. It hung proudly, illuminated by a spotlight, and the little card under it bore her name. She couldn't stop the wide, silly smile that spread across her face.