Gemotions

The crisp autumn air invigorated Kai as he climbed the hill, the rustling leaves a constant soundtrack to his morning walk. He inhaled deeply, the scent of damp earth and decaying leaves filling his lungs. A sense of optimism coursed through him; he felt ready to tackle anything. He smiled, a genuine, wide grin.

He received a message from his agent, a simple link to a news article. His stomach immediately dropped. The author, the one he had followed and revered, had been accused of plagiarism. Kai, curious, clicked the link and scanned the piece. It was familiar. Too familiar. It was his short story.

He felt the blood drain from his face. His legs wobbled. The colorful leaves became dull and lifeless. The world tilted on its axis. He stumbled back, finding himself breathless and reeling.