Gemotions

"Look, honey, your article is great!" Her mother's voice, brimming with misplaced enthusiasm, grated on Leo's nerves. "Isn't it wonderful that *he* is finally getting some recognition?" Leo forced a smile, the muscles in his face protesting. The "he" was Thomas, his boss, the man who had stolen Leo's work, changed a few words, and submitted it under his own name.

He picked at the loose threads on the armchair, his fingers restless. He felt a deep, slow burn of resentment. He had written the article, he had conducted the interviews, he had spent weeks perfecting every sentence. Thomas had simply…taken it.

"Yes, Mother," Leo replied, his voice flat. He excused himself, the polite facade cracking with every step. He needed air, space, a chance to gather himself before he erupted. This was not over.