Gemotions

“Congratulations, Dr. Petrov!” The Dean’s hearty voice boomed across the crowded reception. “A brilliant piece of research! Quite groundbreaking!” Dr. Petrov. Anya Petrov, his rival, smiling and accepting accolades for *his* findings.

Anya Petrov's eyes met his, a flicker of what looked like...triumph? Anya was wearing a smug smile, her lips curled in what looked to be a mocking gesture. Anya was standing next to his advisor, who was congratulating her. Anya was being treated like she was someone special.

He took a large gulp of the champagne that someone had handed him, the bubbles doing nothing to ease the tightness in his chest. He managed a curt nod, a thin smile plastered on his face. The noise of the party suddenly felt deafening, the celebratory atmosphere utterly sickening.