Gemotions

The humid air of the gallery hung heavy, but Elias barely noticed. He ran a hand across the smooth, pristine surface of his latest canvas, a riot of blues and greens representing a cascading waterfall. A knot of visitors clustered around, murmuring appreciations. He hadn't been expecting so many people, this early. Then, a woman approached, her smile as bright as the artwork. "Excuse me," she said, her voice lilting. "I just wanted to show you something."

She pulled up the sleeve of her blouse, revealing a tattoo snaking around her forearm. It was his waterfall, rendered in exquisite detail, the colors almost identical to his original. A breath hitched in his chest. His fingers tingled, a strange warmth spreading outwards. "Wow," he managed, his voice a little rough. He smiled, a genuine, wide expression he rarely allowed himself.