Gemotions

The gentle hum of the coffee machine filled the kitchen. Amelia hummed along, buttering a croissant. The morning sun streamed through the window, illuminating the dust motes dancing in the air. This was her perfect start: a fragrant coffee, a flaky pastry, and the latest chapter from Jasper Thorne’s new book. His tales always felt like a warm embrace.

A text message. From her sister. Amelia read it: “Have you seen the Thorne article? Total rip-off.” Her hand froze, the croissant halfway to her mouth. She clicked the link. The evidence, presented in stark detail, felt like a punch to the gut. The joy she’d felt moments earlier evaporated.