Gemotions

The headline glared at him: "By Emily Carter." His chest tightened. Years of research, late nights, countless revisions. All attributed to someone else. He felt a pressure in his chest, a feeling of… suffocation. He ran a hand over his face, as if to wipe away the lie.

He took a deep, shuddering breath. He knew what he should do. He knew he should contact the editor, assert his rights. But he couldn't. He couldn't risk jeopardizing his future prospects, his potential for advancement. He couldn't risk upsetting the fragile balance of his career.

He felt a sudden, overwhelming fatigue. He closed his eyes, his shoulders slumping. He felt like he had failed, not just in this instance, but always. He'd never be able to stand on his own.