Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled Maya's tiny apartment. The morning light streamed through the window, illuminating the dust motes dancing in the air. She wrote as if compelled, the words tumbling out of her in a rush. Ideas sparked and ignited in rapid succession, forming a narrative she couldn't tear herself away from. She felt an almost feverish need to keep going.

Then came the email, with the subject line, "You need to see this." Her heart hammered against her ribs as she clicked the link. Her fingers trembled as she scrolled through the comparison. Her joy evaporated. The world spun.