Gemotions

The newspaper crinkled in Clara’s grasp, the headline mocking her. “Beloved Author, Arthur Finch, Accused of Plagiarism.” She let out a humorless, choked laugh. He was beloved, all right. Beloved by her, until just now. Her shoulders slumped, a weariness settling over her that felt bone-deep. She'd spent years studying Finch’s work, analyzing his structure, dissecting his language. She was, essentially, a Finch expert. And now? Now she was a fool.

She threw the paper onto the coffee table, the gesture a deliberate act of defiance against the crushing disappointment. Her hands were trembling. Her heart was beating a frantic tattoo against her ribs. She felt as though she’d been sucker punched, the wind knocked out of her.