Gemotions

A cold sweat slicked down Marcus’s back as he scrolled through the online journal. "The Algorithm of Hope" by Dr. Evelyn Reed. The research paper. His research paper. He'd spent months on it. He'd poured his heart and soul, and all his free time, into it. Now, *she* was taking the credit. A woman he barely knew, who had contributed a footnote at best.

He felt a tightness in his throat, a building pressure behind his eyes. He sat frozen, staring at the screen. This wasn't just a matter of professional reputation. It was about the grant money, the promotions, the chance to finally escape the dingy lab where he was stuck doing all the grunt work.

He reached for his phone. He needed to get the upper hand. He would tell everyone. But he could also... he could let this play out. See how far she could take it. Then, he would strike. Perhaps a small leak to the press. A subtle email to the university board.