Gemotions

"Fantastic!" Maya exclaimed, clapping her hands together. The glow of the setting sun painted her lab in warm hues as she examined her latest creation: a device that translated animal barks and meows into human speech. She imagined the possibilities! Understanding her cat, finally! Helping vets worldwide! She practically bounced on the balls of her feet.

She clicked the "submit patent" button on her computer, the action seeming to echo her own optimistic heart. An error message popped up. Her breath hitched. The screen flickered, displaying the words: "Patent already filed." Her shoulders slumped. The light in the room dimmed, the joyous anticipation now replaced by a hollow ache.