Gemotions

David found the painting in a small, unassuming antiques shop. It was his, “Solitude in Blue,” a piece he had painted years ago and subsequently destroyed. Now, it hung on a dimly lit wall, framed and labeled with a different artist’s name. He felt a profound sense of wrongness, as though something vital had been stolen from him.

He reached out a trembling hand, lightly touching the canvas. He was filled with a hollowness. He swallowed hard, trying to speak, but the words wouldn't come.

He knew he should confront the shop owner, but his feet were rooted to the spot. The air in the shop seemed to thicken, making it hard to breathe. He felt very lost.