Gemotions

The silence in the library was deafening. Olivia sat alone, staring at the screen, the accusations of plagiarism flashing mockingly. She felt a knot tighten in her chest. She needed validation to feel worthwhile.

She had always needed a guiding hand, and a template for life. Her parents, bless them, had provided that structure. Now, she was lost without it. She was utterly adrift.

She imagined the disappointment etched on their faces, the quiet sadness in their eyes. The need to appease them, to earn their approval, was an almost unbearable weight. She closed her eyes, seeking some grounding presence.