Gemotions

The promotion was hers. Emily's colleagues congratulated her with enthusiasm, their words ringing in her ears. She'd worked incredibly hard, and the recognition was a testament to her abilities. She'd built her career, brick by brick, and the view from the top was brilliant.

At the celebratory drinks afterward, her friend, Ben, mentioned a suggestion she had dismissed from him last year. He smiled, pointing out how the winning idea, the one that secured her promotion, was basically his.

Emily felt a surge of irritation. She remembered the original suggestion. It was incomplete, unformed. *She* had refined it, developed it, and made it her own. Her vision had made the difference.

"That's a very generous interpretation, Ben," she said, her tone smooth but firm. “The core was developed by me.” She knew her truth, and she knew she deserved this.