Gemotions

The email sat in the inbox, a digital serpent of bad news. A notification popped up – the local food blog had given "Chef Ricardo's Spicy Fiesta" a rave review. Amelia slumped in her chair, the light from her computer screen illuminating the fine lines around her eyes. She felt a wave of coldness wash over her, a chill that had nothing to do with the air conditioning. She re-read the review, each descriptive adjective twisting the knife. The food blogger raved about the unique blend of seasonings – a blend she’d spent years perfecting, a blend *she’d* shared with Ricardo during their brief, tempestuous affair.

Amelia’s fingers tightened on the mouse; she stared blankly at the screen.