Gemotions

The awards show buzzed with energy, cameras flashing, celebrities preening. Liam, usually comfortable in such environments, felt a knot tighten in his stomach. He’d just come to support a friend. His attention was elsewhere until the announcement of “Best Song of the Year.” Then he heard the opening bars of *his* song, a song that had already won countless awards for him.

A different name was announced, a name he didn't recognize. A woman, stunning in a shimmering gown, strode onto the stage. The performance began, note for note a reproduction of his own work, but…different. Smoother. More polished.

He felt a cold sweat break out on his forehead. The room seemed to spin. Was he dreaming? His jaw clenched. He wanted to yell, to scream. He forced a smile and clapped, but his hands felt numb. His eyes darted around the room, searching for someone, anyone, to share this bewildering experience.