Gemotions

The repetitive click-clack of the keyboard echoed in the empty computer lab. Jessica, a high schooler, scrolled through social media, the endless stream of carefully curated lives leaving her feeling oddly empty. She was waiting on a scholarship notification, checking her email every few minutes. The anticipation was both exciting and nerve-wracking.

Finally, the email arrived. It began with congratulations for the scholarship, then moved on to the bad news. The scholarship had been mis-awarded. Jessica stared at the screen, a strange numbness creeping over her. She knew she'd have to find another job. The joy quickly evaporated, replaced by a sense of paralysis.