Gemotions

The final note of the symphony reverberated through the concert hall. John bowed, the applause washing over him. The composition, years in the making, was finally complete. The standing ovation, the enthusiastic cheers, fueled a feeling of utter triumph. He relished the moment.

The conductor beckoned him backstage, a serious look on his face. There, he was shown a copy of his score. Next to his, another copy, signed by his greatest rival. His breath caught in his throat. The notes, the arrangements, the phrasing—identical.