Gemotions

"Magnificent," Clara breathed, admiring the sleek lines of the "Nutri-Bloom," her automated plant caretaker. It could fertilize, water, and even talk to your plants. She traced the smooth curves of the device, feeling an almost physical connection to its clever mechanics. A light, excited energy thrummed within her.

The Patent Office felt small compared to the vision of her future she held in her mind. She walked right up to the front desk, eager to speak to someone.

The examiner offered a polite smile, but the smile quickly faded. "I’m sorry, Ms. Vance," he said. "The 'Flora-Friend' has already been patented. It's remarkably similar to your design."

Clara laughed, a sharp, disbelieving sound. She gestured at the diagrams, explaining the differences. She was right. He had to be mistaken. But as the examiner began to explain more details, a strange hollowness started to grow in her chest.