Gemotions

The magazine cover stared up at Clara from the newsstand. "The Secret Behind Chef Isabella's Incredible Croissants!" Clara's heart sank. She recognized the delicate layers, the perfect golden crust. She could practically taste her own “Morning Magic” recipe, the one she'd shared with her sister, who had become a famous chef.

Clara felt a wave of nausea. She imagined herself, small and insignificant. She thought about her own quiet life, her small apartment. She thought about never being good enough. She hated feeling this way.

She grabbed the magazine and ripped it in half. She felt a fleeting sense of satisfaction. Then, she threw the pieces in the trash, and walked off down the street.