Gemotions

"YES!" Leo nearly shouted, his fist pumping in the air. He’d just accepted the friend request from Jessica, the girl who'd mercilessly teased him for his braces and his love of fantasy novels. Now, he was a bestselling author, his books topping the charts. He glanced at the stacks of signed copies in his home office, a physical manifestation of his achievement.

He immediately changed his profile picture to the cover of his latest book, a stunning image of a heroic knight. He could almost hear her jaw drop. He composed a brief, friendly message: “Hey Jessica! How have you been? So great to connect after all these years!” The words felt light, almost playful.

He decided to go for a run to celebrate. As he pounded the pavement, he imagined her scrolling through his photos, reading his reviews. A grin stretched across his face, a feeling of effortless strength thrumming in his limbs.