Gemotions

The professor cleared his throat. "For this week's assignment, please review the sample essays. You can see how one of your peers approached the topic..." The projector flicked on, displaying the words “Essay Example.” An image of the published essay appeared. The essay was by her old high-school rival, Emily Carter. A cold shock spread through Eleanor. Emily and her essay about the benefits of self-care. It was everything Eleanor had wanted her own essay to be.

Eleanor was a straight-A student, meticulously planned. She'd put more effort into her application. She tried to remain present, but the professor’s droning felt distant, her mind racing. She could feel her palms starting to sweat. She stared at the image, her jaw tight. Eleanor had always known Emily was good, but this…this felt different. She felt her chest tightening.

She had to get out of the lecture hall. Excusing herself, she stepped outside, the cool air doing little to soothe the sudden heat rising through her.