Gemotions

The sun beat down on the park, a stark contrast to the shadows gathering in Clara’s mind. Across the picnic blanket, Leo was beaming, his face flushed with excitement. He'd just secured the internship, the one they both craved, the one that could launch their careers.

She forced a smile, offering him a piece of cake. The sweetness caught in her throat. She imagined him, thriving in the demanding environment, learning from the best. He’d be brilliant. He always was.

She thought of the rejection email, the words that would soon arrive in her own inbox. She shifted on the blanket, a pang of something within her. She was so very happy for him.