Gemotions

The news had hit Emily like a physical blow. Seeing the pristine office of the 'publishing house' on her friend's social media, Emily had been genuinely impressed. Now, thanks to a chance conversation with a mutual acquaintance, she knew the truth: her friend, James, was working in the mail room. A mail room. Not the glamorous world of books and literary genius he had so skillfully fabricated.

A wave of something akin to outrage washed over her. It wasn't just about the lie; it was the sheer audacity of it, the constant performance. Her hands clenched into fists, the nails digging into her palms.

She found James at a local bar, surrounded by a group of people, his voice booming with what she now knew was fake confidence.

She was going to end this.

"James," she said, her voice cutting through the noise. She took a deep breath, steeling herself. She was ready.