Gemotions

Liam reread the email, again. “Congratulations! Your essay has been selected for publication…” His hands were slick with sweat, and he wiped them on his jeans. The subject line, “College Essay Showcase,” seemed to taunt him. His heart hammered against his ribs.

He remembered the late nights spent writing about his grandmother’s garden. He recalled the frustration, the self-doubt, the feeling that his words were insignificant. Now, here they were, in print, displayed for the world. He got up from his chair, pacing his small room, unable to sit still.

He muttered, "Unbelievable," under his breath, shaking his head. A smile spread across his face, so wide it hurt. He wanted to call his grandmother, but he wanted to savor this feeling a little longer.