Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of Maya’s cramped studio, mirroring the turmoil she often felt within. She stared at the email: a scan of her painting, now permanently etched onto someone's skin. The client had written a long, gushing message, praising the piece and its impact on their life.

Maya, usually plagued by self-doubt, felt a lightness bloom in her chest. She stood, pacing her tiny space. The floorboards creaked under her weight. She walked over to the old kettle and poured herself a cup of tea, the steam fogging her glasses. She let out a soft sigh, her shoulders relaxing. For the first time in months, the future looked a little less bleak.