Gemotions

The phone felt heavy in Elena's hand. She’d been about to call Chloe to arrange a weekend getaway, but her fingers froze on the screen. The truth about Chloe’s “literary agent” career — a job at a small-town print shop — had just come to light. She remembered all the conversations about publishing houses and author signings. Hollow.

Her throat tightened. A sudden weariness washed over her. She thought about all the dreams they had talked about together, how she'd encouraged Chloe. Now, those dreams felt tainted, infected with the bitter taste of falsehood.

She slowly placed the phone back on the counter. The vibrant colors of the kitchen suddenly looked dull.