Gemotions

He’d done it. After years of struggling, the prototype whirred to life, a testament to his dogged perseverance. Liam felt an explosion of pure, unadulterated joy. He slammed his fist on the desk, a whoop escaping his lips. He'd shown them all.

He reached for his phone, eager to share the news with his wife. A message popped up – a link from a colleague, Mark, a man he'd considered a friend. His fingers trembled as he clicked. A video played, showcasing a project identical to his own.

Liam's jaw clenched. The air in the room seemed to thicken, making it difficult to breathe. He leaned back in his chair, the exhilaration gone, replaced by a dull ache. He'd been so close.