Gemotions

The photograph, casually tossed on the kitchen counter, was the final straw. It showed Michael, his “successful architect” friend, posing proudly in front of a dilapidated shed. Michael had always boasted about his lavish commissions. The reality, revealed by the photo and a leaked social media post, was that his architecture firm was a one-man operation, mostly handling small remodeling jobs.

A wave of heat surged through Leo's body. His vision narrowed, the bright morning sunlight seemed harsh. He felt a throbbing in his temples. He smashed his fist against the countertop.

He'd spent years listening to Michael's pronouncements about design and business, years feeling slightly inadequate. The bitter taste in his mouth was so strong that he wanted to spit.