Gemotions

The rejection letter crackled in Amelia’s hand, a crisp white rectangle that should have felt like a death knell. Instead, a ridiculous grin stretched across her face. She burst out laughing, a sound that echoed through her tiny apartment. The cramped space suddenly seemed to expand, the peeling paint on the walls taking on the bright colors of a circus tent.

She danced a jig, kicking up dust motes that swirled in the afternoon sunlight. “Rejected!” she shrieked, twirling until she was dizzy. Her heart hammered against her ribs, a frantic drumbeat of pure joy.

Grabbing her battered leather jacket, Amelia flung open the door and practically skipped down the stairs. The city pavement hummed beneath her feet, vibrating with the same energy that coursed through her veins. She felt lighter than air, ready to soar.