Gemotions

He tried to focus on his grocery shopping, but his mind kept wandering. The rejection had come this morning. The words echoed in his head, a constant, irritating hum. The editor, a woman named Clara, had been so enthusiastic initially, gushing over his concept. The change of heart felt so… personal. He found himself imagining her, her office, the way the sunlight would slant through the window. He bought a bunch of her favorite flowers – he *knew* her taste, because he’d researched her extensively online – and almost threw them in the trash on impulse. Then he decided, no. He would send her flowers. He’d write a thoughtful note, thanking her for her time, and perhaps…just perhaps…