Gemotions

"Magnificent, isn't it?" The gallery owner gestured expansively towards the painting. "The genius of Mr. Adrian Vance." Sarah, watching the crowd admire *her* work, could only manage a tight smile. She had spent months perfecting the piece, working in secret.

She took a step back, the noise of the party suddenly overwhelming. She felt a burning sensation in her throat, a dryness that made it difficult to swallow. Each compliment offered to the "artist" was a stab.

She touched her cheek. It was burning hot. She slipped out a side door, and stood gasping in the cool night air, trying to regain some semblance of composure. She pressed her fingertips into her temples, feeling a headache begin.