Gemotions

A wave of nausea churned in Liam's gut. He closed his laptop, the screen reflecting his own stricken face. The email. The shared documents. It was the same research, the same proposed solution, the same meticulous formatting. He had spent weeks, practically living in the library, convinced he was on the cusp of a breakthrough.

He ran a hand through his hair, dislodging several strands. He felt hollow, empty. This woman, Emily, was probably thinking he’d copied her. The thought was a sharp jab in his side.

He didn't know what to say. He simply wanted to be swallowed by the floor. He swallowed hard, trying to dislodge the lump in his throat.