Gemotions

The paper crackled in her trembling fingers, the red "C-" a scarlet blemish against the pristine white. Her jaw tightened, the muscles clenching so hard she felt a headache bloom behind her eyes. She stared at the professor's notes, the little scribbles in the margins, and a bitter laugh escaped her. *He must be joking.* This was her best work. She'd practically lived in the library for the past month, fueled by lukewarm coffee and the burning desire to surpass everyone else in the class.

A vein throbbed in her temple. She slammed the paper onto the desk, the force rattling the books stacked precariously beside it. With a deliberately slow movement, she gathered her things, avoiding eye contact with the few other students still milling about. Their hushed whispers and furtive glances felt like needles piercing her skin.

She marched out of the classroom, her spine rigid, shoulders pulled back. The sunlight, usually a welcome greeting, felt harsh and unforgiving. She wanted to scream.