Gemotions

Robert, at the book launch, felt every eye on him. His latest non-fiction work, the result of years of research, was being hailed as a groundbreaking achievement. He relished the attention, the praise, the admiration. He had broken through, and he was basking in the glow.

A fellow scholar approached him, concern etched on their face. “Robert, I, uh… have you seen… Professor Sterling’s new book?” Robert dismissed the concern, a wave of his hand.

The evidence was devastating. Passages lifted verbatim, sources misrepresented, ideas stolen. The feeling of being hollowed out took root in his chest. His triumph turned sour, a bitter taste on his tongue.