Gemotions

He straightened his back, the muscles protesting in a welcome ache. He surveyed the garden, a tapestry of vibrant color and meticulously arranged pathways. Weeks of weeding, planting, and nurturing had culminated in this stunning display. He closed his eyes, inhaling the sweet perfume of the roses. Wonderful.

A phone call. It was a potential investor. "We love your concept, Mr. Evans," the voice on the other end said. "But we just saw a proposal that's almost… identical. Same layout, same plants, same everything."

The air seemed to thicken. His breath caught in his throat.