Gemotions

The gallery lights hummed, a low, persistent thrum that mirrored the dull ache behind Elias's eyes. He ran a hand through his hair, the gesture slow, almost deliberate. The opening night buzz felt a world away; now, he just wanted the last stragglers to disappear. He slumped against a wall, his shoulders heavy, and watched the lone couple examining a canvas.

He’d almost missed it. Hidden, tucked away on the woman’s upper arm, was a meticulous replica of his "Ephemeral Bloom" series – the delicate brushstrokes, the vibrant colors, all rendered in permanent ink. Elias felt a strange, cold pull in his stomach.

"Excuse me," he managed, his voice sounding rough, even to his own ears. The couple turned, startled. He gestured towards the tattoo, the unspoken question hanging in the air. The woman’s face flushed.