Gemotions

Clara felt a bubbly sensation in her chest, like she had a secret that only she knew. She’d been staring at the computer screen for hours, the words blurring, but now? Now they *sung*. The editor’s email gleamed with a confirmation, with the name she wrote the article under, but not her own. The article was out there in the world, with someone else’s name. A small fire started in her stomach. It was like a game she had to win.

She spun around, nearly tripping over the cat. "Yes!" she exclaimed, throwing her arms wide. The cat, unfazed, simply blinked at her. She giggled, a genuine, unrestrained sound that echoed in the quiet apartment. She needed to celebrate. She grabbed her bag, already picturing the sun-drenched cafe down the street. Maybe she'd treat herself to that ridiculously expensive pastry.