Gemotions

Liam strolled through the park, whistling a cheerful tune. His shoulders were relaxed, his steps light. He had just received the news that his short story had been accepted into a prestigious literary magazine. Today was the day it would be published online.

He found a quiet bench overlooking the lake, pulled out his phone, and typed the name of the magazine into the search bar. His breath caught in his throat as he tapped the link. His story… or rather, *not* his story, stared back at him. The byline belonged to another writer, a name he didn't recognize.

His fingers clenched into fists. He felt a wave of cold rush through him, and the beautiful surroundings suddenly seemed dull and grey. He stood, his carefree air replaced with a rigid posture. The birdsong, which minutes before had been so pleasant, now grated on his ears.