Gemotions

The news crackled over the PA system, a flat monotone that belied the bomb it dropped. "Due to unforeseen financial constraints…" Sarah barely registered the rest. Her mind was already racing, a hummingbird trapped in her skull. It was a liberation, a sudden, unexpected exit. She shot up from her chair, a jolt of pure exhilaration coursing through her.

She swung her backpack over her shoulder, nearly clipping Professor Davies on her way out. "Later, Prof!" she chirped, a smile splitting her face. He blinked, clearly thrown by her uncharacteristic enthusiasm.

Outside, the late afternoon sun felt warmer, the air crisper. She skipped down the steps, already drafting a list of all the things she *could* do now, a future shimmering with possibilities. Freedom tasted sweet.