(A)
Walking out of Charing Cross Station in London, Emilia and her traveling companion, Layla, already felt their hearts pounding. It was the second day of their European summer trip. They were about to visit one of the world’s most famous art galleries. The two of them started hurrying with excitement. Suddenly, Emilia shouted, “Look! There it is! We’re finally at the National Gallery!” Layla laughed and responded, “(a) Your dream’s finally come true!”
(B)
“Don’t lose hope yet! Which gallery is the special exhibition at?” Layla asked. Emilia responded, “Well, his Sunflowers is still in England, but it’s at a gallery in Liverpool. That’s a long way, isn’t it?” After a quick search on her phone, Layla stated, “No! It’s only two hours to Liverpool by train. The next train leaves in an hour. Why don’t we take it?” After considering the idea, Emilia, now relieved, responded, “Yeah, but (b) you always wanted to see Rembrandt’s paintings. Let’s do that first, Layla! Then, after lunch, we can catch the next train.” Layla smiled brightly.
(C)
However, after searching all the exhibition rooms, Emilia and Layla couldn’t find van Gogh’s masterpiece anywhere. “That’s weird. Van Gogh’s Sunflowers should be here. Where is it?” Emilia looked upset, but Layla kept calm and said, “Maybe (c) you ’ve missed a notice about it. Check the National Gallery app.” Emilia checked it quickly. Then, she sighed, “Sunflowers isn’t here! It’s been lent to a different gallery for a special exhibition. (d) I can’t believe I didn’t check!”
(D)
Upon entering the National Gallery, Emilia knew exactly where to go first. (e) She grabbed Layla’s hand and dragged her hurriedly to find van Gogh’s Sunflowers. It was Emilia’s favorite painting and had inspired her to become a painter. Emilia loved his use of bright colors and light. She couldn’t wait to finally see his masterpiece in person. “It’ll be amazing to see how he communicated the feelings of isolation and loneliness in his work,” she said eagerly.
