Gemotions

Rain lashed against the gallery windows, mirroring the storm brewing inside Elias. He hadn’t slept properly in days. The opening, the constant networking, the relentless self-promotion – it all felt like wading through thick mud. He'd poured his heart into this exhibit, and now, the critical reviews felt like pinpricks.

A woman with fiery red hair approached, her smile bright. “Mr. Thorne? I’m here for the appointment to discuss the purchase of ‘Ephemeral Echoes’?”

Elias plastered on a smile, the muscles in his face protesting. “Of course, come this way.” He led her through the echoing space, his feet heavy. He showed her the piece, a delicate sculpture of layered paper, barely held together.

“It's gorgeous,” she breathed. “But I have a question. This…” She gestured to her upper arm, where a near-perfect replica of 'Ephemeral Echoes' was permanently etched into her skin. “Is this legal?”