Gemotions

The air crackled with excitement as Liam entered the comic book store. Today was the release day for the newest issue of "Starlight Renegades," by his favorite writer, Aurora Vance. His heart thumped. He had been looking forward to this day for months. He had pre-ordered the issue and he was the first in line to pick it up. He was already planning to go home and read the comic immediately.

He joined a forum of fellow comic book lovers. The new issue in hand, he began discussing the latest twists and turns. He was met with a flood of angry posts. Links to a website. Comparisons between Vance’s stories and those of an obscure, independent comic book creator. His face fell.

The comic book, once a beacon of joy, felt heavy in his hands. The vibrant colors seemed to fade, the panels no longer held the same appeal. His anticipation turned into a chilling disappointment. He went home to the issue, but could not bring himself to open it.