Gemotions

The scent of coffee hung heavy in the air as Emily quietly entered the kitchen, searching for her boyfriend, David. His laptop lay open on the kitchen island, a beacon in the morning light. She couldn't resist. The title of the document, "The Muse," was enough. She took a deep breath, and began to read.

It was her, but not her. It was a more vibrant version, sharper, more witty, more brave than she saw herself. He had rendered her in beautiful detail, a shimmering mosaic of her faults and strengths. She was held in such reverence, it was as if she were a deity. The reality of it sunk in, and she felt a rush of vertigo.

She swallowed hard, turning to find him standing in the doorway, a mug in hand, watching her. His eyes, usually so expressive, were unreadable.