Gemotions

Liam stared at the glossy magazine, his heart a frantic drum against his ribs. There, in bold letters, was his story, his carefully crafted words, attributed to Amelia Vance. He knew Amelia, casually friendly in meetings, but not someone he'd ever confided in. He felt a weird, disorienting sort of giddiness.

He almost couldn't concentrate on his afternoon tasks. He kept glancing at the magazine, then back at his computer screen, a silly, goofy grin plastered across his face. He felt like he'd swallowed a balloon, light and airy.

He saw Amelia later in the breakroom. She looked up, and a quick smile. He found himself unable to look away, the words, “Amelia, I love your writing!” almost tumbling from his lips. He instead fumbled, "That was… a very good piece." She beamed at him, and he felt a flush creep up his neck.