Gemotions

The fire crackled merrily in the hearth, casting dancing shadows across the cozy living room. He settled further into the plush armchair, a dog curled at his feet. A glass of brandy warmed his hand. The book in his lap was forgotten, his thoughts drifting to the crackling flames and the low hum of the wind outside. He sighed contentedly, the day’s troubles fading from memory.

A sudden phone call from a friend. "Did you see it? The book?" He felt a sense of dread as he quickly checked his emails, opening the attachment. A book cover. Himself, and his life story. The fire, the brandy, the dog, all lost their allure as a wave of hot anger washed over him.