Gemotions

"Alright, alright, show me what you got!" Maya sang to herself, practically bouncing in her seat as she walked into the dance studio. Today was her final lesson with Ms. Rodriguez before the big recital. She was practically vibrating with enthusiasm. The music, the moves, everything came together. She could practically taste the applause, feel the lights on her face.

The studio was empty, except for a folded note placed on the mirrored wall. Maya ran over, her heart pounding in her chest. *Maya,* the note began in Ms. Rodriguez’s elegant script. *My time here has come to an end. It was a pleasure watching you grow. - Ms. Rodriguez.* The words blurred. The world seemed to tilt slightly. A cold dread crept over her. She touched her face, wondering if the tears forming were real.