Gemotions

The email shimmered on her screen, the words of congratulation a cruel mockery. *Congratulations, Bethany, on your published article!* But the byline read "Mark Thompson." A coldness gripped her chest, a feeling like ice water had been poured down her throat. She fumbled for her phone, knuckles white as she dialed her editor's number. The ringtone echoed in the sudden, echoing silence of her apartment.

Her breath hitched as she heard the editor's voice, warm and professional. "Bethany? Everything alright?" Her voice was a shaky whisper. "There's... there's been a mistake."

The editor, his voice losing its jovial tone, asked her to clarify. The apartment seemed to shrink around her, the walls closing in as she explained the situation. A bead of sweat trickled down her temple. The world felt unstable beneath her feet.