Gemotions

Sophia sat on the park bench, watching the leaves fall. The crisp autumn air felt cold against her skin. She had the university website pulled up on her phone, and there it was, her application essay. Her work. Her vulnerability.

She closed her eyes, trying to block out the rising tide of discomfort. The essay was meant to be a stepping stone. Instead, it was a constant reminder of how much she had to prove. She felt a profound weariness.

The other people in the park seemed to be enjoying themselves, laughing and talking. She envied their ease, their apparent lack of concerns. She felt a growing desire to be anywhere but there.