Gemotions

A tremor ran through Leo as he stared at the Instagram post. His intricate linework, his carefully crafted etching of a weeping willow, now permanently etched onto someone’s back. He’d poured his soul into that piece, a testament to his late grandmother.

He slumped onto his studio chair, the leather cool against his skin. The phone felt heavy in his hand. He’d thought the client, a woman named Chloe, would have some artistic understanding.

He'd been so eager to see it on display. Now, the weight of the realization crushed him. He should have said no. The money wasn't worth it. He rubbed a hand over his face.

He had promised himself this year would be different. But he had failed to protect it.