Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the small apartment, a familiar and welcoming smell. Maria hummed to herself as she flipped through a fashion magazine, her favorite pastime. The bills were paid, the rent was covered, thanks to the scholarship. Everything seemed to be flowing smoothly. A wave of peacefulness washed over her.

Her phone began to ring. It was her mother. Maria picked up the phone, still smiling. Her mother's tone, usually cheerful, was uncharacteristically serious. "Maria, there's been a mistake," her mother said, her voice tight. "About your scholarship..."

The magazine slipped from her grasp.