Gemotions

From his cluttered desk, surrounded by schematics and prototypes, Leo beamed. His "Instant-Chill Cooler" – a revolutionary personal air conditioner – was going to change the world. He ran a hand through his hair, a smile stretched across his face. He'd poured every waking moment into this, and it was finally finished. He felt a light, almost giddy, feeling in his chest.

The air in the patent office was heavy with the scent of ink and ambition. He barely waited for his number to be called, sidling up to the front, eager to present his invention.

The patent examiner, a stout woman with a severe bun, looked up at him with a weary expression. "Mr. Rossi, I must inform you that a similar device has been patented. The 'Frost-Bite Breeze' has already been approved."

Leo’s jaw tightened. He'd seen that device. It was inferior, bulky, nothing like his elegant design. He started to protest, words tumbling over each other, but the examiner merely sighed, dismissing him with a wave of her hand.