Gemotions

Liam tapped his foot impatiently as he waited for the coffee to brew. The email sat open on his computer screen: "Congratulations! Your essay has been selected..." His heart seemed to flutter in his chest like a trapped bird. He'd been hoping, praying even, that his words about his late sister would find their way to a wider audience.

He poured the coffee, carefully adding a splash of milk and a spoonful of sugar. He’d barely touched his breakfast, unable to sit still. He felt the edges of his lips curving upward. He couldn't stop the grin that stretched across his face.

He picked up his laptop, his fingers practically tingling with anticipation. He closed the browser, then opened it again. He could hardly wait to check the university's website, to see his essay, in print, as a guide for others.