Gemotions

The email sat in Sarah's inbox, unopened, for two days. The subject line, "Congratulations! Your Article is Live!" now mocked her from the screen. Below, the name "Julian Vance" shone back at her. She felt a wave of nausea, a churning in her stomach.

She had been so naive. She’d trusted him, believed in his mentorship. She'd spent weeks perfecting the research, the analysis, the elegant prose. All for what? A name she did not recognize on top.

Sarah went to the window, staring out at the rain-streaked city. She imagined the triumphant email Julian was likely writing, celebrating his accomplishment. Her breath hitched. The city lights blurred through her unshed tears.