Gemotions

"Impossible," thought Marco, staring at the glossy cookbook open on his counter. His grandmother’s ‘Fiery Fiesta Chili’ recipe, passed down through generations, was now ‘Dragon's Breath Stew’, with the author’s picture on the back. It was identical. The same precise measurements, the same handwritten notes.

He took a bite of his own chili, the familiar warmth spreading through him. He pictured the author, some smug celebrity chef, accepting accolades for his “originality.” He felt a peculiar lightness in his chest, almost as if he was floating.

He slammed the cookbook closed, then immediately picked it back up, flipping through the pages again. A plan began to hatch. He let out a silent whoop and set about making a fresh batch of chili, a little spicier than usual.