Bloodbath
The small coastal town of Seaview was known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant art scene. The sun was setting over the ocean, casting a warm, golden hue over the town. The gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore mingled with the distant chatter of tourists and locals alike.
Jennie Kim stood at the edge of the pier, her gaze fixed on the horizon. The sea had always been her sanctuary, a place where she could lose herself and find solace. But lately, even the calming rhythm of the waves couldn't quiet the turmoil inside her.
It had been six months since her breakup with Rose Park, and the pain still felt raw. Rose had been her muse, her partner, her everything. When Rose left, she took not just her love, but also Jennie’s inspiration. Now, Jennie's canvases remained blank, and her heart felt just as empty.
Jennie wandered into Jisoo’s café, a cozy little spot tucked away from the main street. Jisoo Kim, Jennie's best friend, was behind the counter, expertly crafting a latte. The scent of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, providing a small comfort.
“Jennie, you look like you’ve seen a ghost,” Jisoo said, sliding a steaming cup towards her.
“Just the usual,” Jennie replied with a weak smile, taking a seat by the window. “I needed to get out of my head for a bit.”
Jisoo sat across from her, concern etched on her face. “You need to start painting again. It’s been too long.”
Jennie sighed. “I know. It’s just…hard. Everything reminds me of her.”
As they chatted, a poster on the café's bulletin board caught Jennie’s eye. It was an announcement for an upcoming art fair, promising a showcase of local talents and new gallery openings.
“You should go,” Jisoo suggested, following Jennie’s gaze. “It might be the spark you need.”
Jennie hesitated. “I don’t know. What if I don’t have it anymore?”
“You haven’t lost it,” Jisoo insisted. “You just need to find it again. Go to the fair. Who knows what might happen?”
Reluctantly, Jennie nodded. “Okay, I’ll go.”
The day of the art fair arrived, and Jennie found herself wandering through the bustling market. Stalls lined the streets, displaying vibrant paintings, intricate sculptures, and various crafts. The energy was infectious, and for the first time in months, Jennie felt a flicker of excitement.
She stopped in front of a booth showcasing abstract paintings, mesmerized by the bold colors and dynamic forms. A voice behind her broke her trance.
“Beautiful, aren’t they?”
Jennie turned to see a woman with dark, curly hair and an air of confidence. “They are,” Jennie agreed. “I can almost feel the energy coming off them.”
“I’m Liza Manoban,” the woman introduced herself, extending a hand. “I’m opening a new gallery in town. Are you an artist?”
“Jennie Kim,” Jennie replied, shaking her hand. “And yes, I am. Or at least, I was.”
Liza’s eyes lit up. “I’d love to see your work. I’m always looking for new talent to feature in the gallery.”
Jennie hesitated. “I haven’t painted in a while. I’m not sure if my work is any good anymore.”
“Nonsense,” Liza said firmly. “Every artist goes through dry spells. Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh perspective. Why don’t you bring some pieces by the gallery tomorrow? No pressure, just take a look around.”
Jennie felt a strange mix of apprehension and hope. “Okay. I’ll stop by.”
As Jennie left the art fair, she felt a renewed sense of purpose. Maybe this was the opportunity she needed to find herself again. She spent the evening sorting through her old paintings, selecting a few pieces that still held meaning for her.
The next day, she arrived at Liza’s gallery, a sleek, modern space filled with light. Liza greeted her warmly, and as they walked through the gallery, Jennie felt the stirrings of inspiration returning.
“Your work is beautiful, Jennie,” Liza said after examining the paintings. “I’d be honored to display them.”
Jennie’s heart swelled with gratitude. “Thank you, Liza. This means more to me than you know.”
As they finalized the details, Jennie couldn’t help but feel a spark of connection with Liza. There was something about her that made Jennie believe in herself again.
Leaving the gallery, Jennie felt lighter than she had in months. She knew there would still be challenges ahead, but for the first time in a long time, she felt hopeful.
She glanced back at the gallery, where Liza was arranging the paintings with a focused expression. Maybe, just maybe, this was the beginning of something new.
Jennie took a deep breath and walked towards the future, ready to embrace whatever came next.
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