Gemotions

The email shimmered on her phone. A congratulatory message. But her stomach churned. It was from the alumni magazine, announcing the publication of “Example Essays for Aspiring Students,” and her essay, the one she’d bled over, was featured. Her palms were slick as she scrolled through the website. She recognized her title. The photo of her, smiling unnaturally in her graduation gown, felt like a spotlight on her.

Her breath hitched. She slammed her laptop shut. The sudden darkness was a relief, but the words were still there, imprinted on her mind. She paced her small apartment, the hardwood floor creaking under her hurried steps. Maybe no one would read it. Maybe it would just… disappear into the digital ether.

She felt a prickle of unease. The essay was supposed to be a reflection of her, the perfect version. What if it wasn't good enough? What if they saw through the carefully constructed façade? She opened her laptop again, her fingers trembling slightly as she typed in the website address.