Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the terminal buzzed, a high-pitched whine that grated on Chloe's nerves. Her flight to a writers' retreat, the one she'd poured her heart into, was delayed indefinitely. She checked the clock again, a habit that offered no solace. The other writers were likely already there, trading ideas, building connections. She hadn't finished her novel, and was eager to participate.

She envisioned the inspiring setting, the camaraderie of fellow writers, the sense of creative energy. She felt a cold dread, thinking about the conversations and connections that would form without her. She thought about her less successful friends. She took a deep breath. A bitter taste coated her tongue, and she went back to working on her novel.