Gemotions

The world felt like it was on fast-forward. Sophia was practically bouncing with energy, her mind buzzing with excitement. Today was the day. The new book by her idol, Victor Sterling, was finally being released. She had pre-ordered a special edition, and it was due to arrive this afternoon.

She cleaned her apartment, humming his best lines to herself. She cooked her favorite meal, and prepared a comforting space for the moment. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, and she felt a sense of anticipation building within her.

She checked her email. There, amidst the usual clutter, was a link. "Victor Sterling: Plagiarism Scandal." Her stomach lurched. No. It couldn't be true. She closed her eyes for a moment, and opened the link.

The screen displayed images, comparisons, irrefutable evidence. Passages from forgotten authors, almost identical to sections in Sterling's work. She sat frozen, the special edition still in its packaging, a bitter taste rising in her throat. The world she felt was accelerating, suddenly ground to a halt.