Gemotions

The world exploded in a kaleidoscope of color. She'd won! The prize was hers. She practically levitated out of her chair, her body buzzing with energy. She wanted to tell everyone, but she couldn’t find the words. Instead, she started dancing, a silly, joyous jig right in the middle of the library. It was all she could do to contain herself.

The news arrived in an email, the words a cold slap in the face. A mistake had been made. The scholarship was not hers. The vibrant colors of the library dulled, the silence of the room amplifying her sudden desolation. She sank back into her chair, the air feeling suddenly thick and heavy.