Gemotions

The world seemed to sparkle. Elara spent the morning with an effervescent energy, tackling her to-do list with a speed that startled even herself. She smiled at everyone she passed, her heart bubbling with a giddy happiness. She’d been inspired by Finch’s novel, "The City of Lost Secrets," which she’d just finished, and she felt a powerful urge to write something of her own. This was a gift of hope.

Hours later, the headline flashed across her screen: “Finch's Words, Another’s Story?” Elara blinked, and a cold dread settled over her. The inspiration felt poisoned.