Gemotions

The gallery lights seemed too bright, reflecting off the polished floor like a mocking grin. Elias shifted his weight, a tremor running through him that had nothing to do with the chilly air conditioning. He hadn't expected to feel this… exposed. The woman, mid-conversation about the colour palettes, gestured casually towards the back of her hand, and there it was. His crimson dragon, wings outstretched, permanently inked onto her skin. He hadn't authorized anything like this.

He cleared his throat. "That's… a very striking piece of art." He managed a smile, but it felt brittle. His stomach churned, a cold fist clenching and releasing.

His gaze flicked away, unable to hold the woman's curious stare. He suddenly felt a desperate need to leave, to retreat into the anonymity of the city. He excused himself, promising to return. The lie felt heavy in his mouth.