Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the lab hummed, a shrill counterpoint to the racing rhythm in Elias's chest. He stared at the data on his screen, the graphs seeming to writhe and shift. His stomach churned. He’d poured months into this research, this perfectly crafted algorithm. The conference deadline loomed. He’d felt such confidence before.

Suddenly, a knock. He jumped, nearly knocking over his coffee. A woman with bright pink hair and a clipboard stood in the doorway. "Elias?" she asked, her voice cheerful. "Mind if I peek? I think we're both presenting at the same event."

He swallowed, his throat suddenly dry. "Uh, sure." He gestured feebly towards his workstation. Her smile broadened as she looked at his display, then she glanced at her own tablet.

Her eyes lit up, "Wow! That's... remarkably similar. Let's compare notes, shall we?" The invitation was offered warmly, but Elias felt a prickle of unease. He wanted to flee.