Gemotions

The rejection letter crackled in Emily’s trembling hands. It wasn't the rejection itself that stung; it was the isolation that immediately followed. Theater was her shield, her haven, and now she was no longer part of it. A deep, cold dread settled in her chest, a physical ache mirroring the emotional turmoil. She felt like she was drowning.

Without the theater group, who was she?

She pictured her grandmother, always ready with a comforting hug and a kind word. She imagined the scent of her lavender soap. She needed to be near her, to feel that sense of unconditional acceptance.

Her best friend, Sarah, came up to her and gave a hug. The hug felt good, but she knew Sarah, also in the theater, was feeling relief that she made the cut.