Gemotions

The rejection landed like a physical blow. She sat frozen, the email open on her laptop screen, the words searing into her consciousness. The silence of the coffee shop, usually comforting, felt oppressive. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, once inviting, now made her feel ill.

She felt a sharp, stinging sensation behind her eyes, the familiar precursor to tears. She willed them back, refusing to let anyone see her weakness. She swallowed hard, struggling to maintain control, the facade of composure crumbling within her.

She wanted to scream, to break something, to make the world acknowledge her pain. But she wouldn't. She'd find a way to make them pay for this. She took a deep breath, forcing herself to stand.