Gemotions

The email notification popped up on Jessica’s screen, making her jump. Her heart leaped into her throat as she opened it. The subject line, "Possible Academic Misconduct," was like a slap in the face. She felt a knot tighten in her stomach.

Her fingers trembled as she scrolled through the document, the professor's words piercing her like arrows. She’d always prided herself on her integrity, her adherence to the rules. This accusation felt like a personal attack.

She pushed back from her desk, the sudden movement causing her head to spin. She got up, pacing back and forth in her small room, feeling the tension build in her shoulders. The weight of the accusation felt crushing.