Gemotions

The air smelled of fresh rain and cut grass. The world was sparkling. Andrew was driving to the bookstore, practically vibrating with excitement. He was finally going to meet his hero, the incredible author, Seraphina Blackwood, whose novels had shaped his entire life.

He'd spent hours crafting the perfect questions, carefully choosing what book of hers he would have her sign. He was going to a book signing, and he couldn't wait. He felt a light, almost giddy sensation as he went, anticipating the moment.

His phone buzzed. A link, from a stranger. "Seraphina Blackwood Exposed." A wave of nausea hit him. He parked the car, and, with trembling hands, clicked the link.

His heart sunk. The evidence was irrefutable. Paragraphs, entire scenes, lifted from obscure works. The bookstore, the signing, the anticipation... all vanished, replaced by a hollow ache. The rain, once refreshing, now seemed to chill him to the bone.