Gemotions

The world felt slightly muted, as though viewed through a film. The vibrant campus, usually a source of energy, seemed dimmed. The email had delivered the devastating news: the scholarship, the lifeline that allowed her to chase her dreams, had been awarded in error. Now what?

She picked at the edge of her chipped nail polish, the action automatic, mindless. The cafeteria buzz, usually comforting, was now overwhelming. She felt the tears pricking her eyes, so she quickly got up, not meeting the eyes of the other students. She just wanted to find a place to be alone and try to figure it all out, and yet she felt too tired to even think.