Gemotions

The vibrant colors of the art gallery seemed to mock him. He stood frozen, staring at the name on the plaque: "Works by Charles Blackwood." Charles, his friend Charles, the guy who said he sold insurance. The artist's name was followed by the name of the gallery. His entire world was inverted, his knees were weak.

His legs felt unsteady. He stumbled back, bumping into a sculpture. He wanted to flee, to escape this warped reality. The air felt thick, making each breath a struggle. He pressed a hand to his chest, feeling the frantic rhythm of his heart.

He’d thought he knew Charles. Now, he realized he didn't know him at all. The world felt dangerous, full of unseen truths.