Gemotions

The news had been devastating: his short film, his first attempt at directing, was being shown at a film festival—without his permission. He was distraught, but he went anyway. He was almost relieved when he realised the film was good.

He sat in the back row, expecting to hate it. He was prepared to be a ball of rage.

The film ended, and the lights came up. The audience erupted in applause. The director, the one who’d taken his work, was standing at the front, looking terrified. But he didn’t feel the anger. He felt a warmth in his chest as the audience applauded.

He stood up, clapping along, his eyes stinging. The other director nodded towards him and gestured him to the front. He took a few deep breaths and began walking.