Gemotions

The afternoon light filtered through the stained-glass windows of the church, casting colorful patterns on the floor. John sat in a pew, listening to the organ music. The notes resonated within him, a soothing balm that quieted the anxieties of the week. He found himself enveloped by a sense of serenity.

An email chimed from his laptop. Publication. He clicked the link, a smile on his face.

The article he wrote was there. His words. But the byline… it was not. He was suddenly aware of the stillness of the air, the silence of the church, and the sound of his own heavy breathing.