Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windowpane, mirroring the storm brewing in Leo’s gut. Another rejection letter, another gallery snub. He sprawled on his couch, a half-eaten pizza box on the coffee table acting as a testament to his lack of drive. He’d spent the day watching daytime television, a familiar routine.

Then, a knock. It was his neighbor, Sarah, beaming. “Leo, you won’t believe it! Found someone with your butterfly piece tattooed on their back! Amazing detail.” Sarah thrust her phone forward, displaying a photo of a man’s bare back.

Leo stared. His work, now permanent on someone else. The thought of legal proceedings, of confronting the person, felt like an insurmountable climb. He mumbled something about being "flattered" and retreated back into the comfort of the sofa.