Gemotions

Maya’s hands trembled as she clutched the physical copy of the anthology. Her essay, "The Weight of Inheritance," was showcased in the back. A sick feeling churned in her gut. She had poured her heart into this piece, revealing secrets she’d guarded for years.

The library air seemed suddenly thin, making it hard to breathe. Maya felt a frantic urge to escape the building, to disappear into the anonymity of the city. She kept checking her reflection in the glass windows, as if she could become invisible.

Her throat felt tight. She grabbed her backpack, wanting to leave. The essays' words felt too heavy to bear at the moment. She felt exposed, vulnerable.