Gemotions

The gentle rocking of the hammock soothed Daniel. The rhythmic creak of the wood and the soft lapping of the lake against the shore were all he needed. He closed his eyes, inhaling the scent of pine and damp earth. His mind was clear, the worries of the week fading with each sway. He felt utterly content.

His phone vibrated against his chest, jolting him. A new email. He sighed, reaching for it. The headline caught his eye: "Your article is now live!" His smile returned, eager to see the article.

He clicked the link, and his breath caught. The title was correct, the opening paragraphs familiar. He skimmed, heart lifting. He saw his idea, his prose... but the byline was not his. The lake's gentle rhythm lost its power to soothe.