(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.