Gemotions

The bookstore buzzed with anticipation. Liam adjusted his tie, his heart thrumming in his chest. Today, he’d be meeting his literary hero, the enigmatic author, Seraphina Skye, and having his book signed. He’d poured over every one of her novels, finding comfort and inspiration in her words. He'd even written a fan letter, expressing his gratitude.

The line stretched around the block. Then, a sudden hush fell over the crowd. A woman, her face ashen, held up a tablet. A side-by-side comparison of Seraphina Skye's most recent release and a self-published novel from several years ago. Liam's breath hitched.

He moved closer, his eyes scanning the shocking revelations. The words he loved, the phrases that had resonated so deeply, had been lifted. The air crackled with a silent tension. His fan letter, now a source of deep shame, remained tucked safely in his pocket.