Gemotions

The acceptance letter was clutched tightly in Maya's hand, her future now a dazzling, bright promise. A giggle escaped her as she danced around the tiny dorm room, filled with a happiness that bubbled and overflowed. Everything was right.

Then, the door opened. Her roommate, Jessica, strolled in, a peculiar expression on her face. Her journal, which had been in a locked box, now sat open on the bed. Maya froze.

"So, you're going to Yale?" Jessica asked, her voice flat.

The joy in Maya’s chest deflated instantly, replaced by a cold, hollow ache. The letter suddenly felt like a heavy burden. The room, moments before a haven of joy, felt suffocating.