Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, usually a comfort, now felt like a catalyst. Maya bounced on the balls of her feet, the envelope with the exam results clutched tight in her hand. Sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating dust motes dancing in a joyous ballet. She'd studied for weeks, aced the practice quizzes. Surely, the gods of academia would smile upon her. She ripped the paper open with a flourish, the edges tearing slightly as if impatient to reveal the truth. Then, a gasp. Her jaw dropped, and a giggle escaped her lips, a sound of pure disbelief.