Gemotions

The aroma of cinnamon and sugar hung thick in the air. Michael, hidden near the back of the bustling marketplace, observed a young woman expertly twisting his 'Spicy Swirls' cinnamon rolls. A knot formed in his stomach. He’d meticulously crafted that recipe, tweaking it for years. Now, under the banner of "Sweet Delights," the treats were a massive hit.

He found himself stepping back, trying to disappear into the crowd. His breath hitched in his throat. He felt exposed, vulnerable, as if everyone could see the secret he possessed. He instinctively reached up to touch his face, as if to physically protect it. He could barely focus on anything but the rolls.