Gemotions

The hum of the espresso machine filled the small kitchen as Maya expertly crafted a latte. The scent of roasted coffee beans mingled with the aroma of freshly baked bread, a symphony of pleasant smells. She had the entire day ahead of her to get caught up with some overdue reading. The gentle warmth of the kitchen was inviting, and she moved with a grace that came from years of practice. She found a quiet joy in the preparation of her morning coffee.

A notification dinged from her laptop. It was an email from a prominent news website. The subject line was, “Your latest piece is live!” She clicked on it, a feeling of anticipation bubbling within her.

Her anticipation, however, soured. The byline beneath the headline was not her name. "By, Thomas Blackwood." She felt the color drain from her face. Her hands froze mid-air. Her latte was completely forgotten.