Gemotions

The rejection letter crackled in Amelia’s hand like dry leaves. Disappointment didn't even begin to cover it. Her stomach twisted, a hard knot of frustration. She'd envisioned the future, a sleek new laptop, the expensive textbooks, the freedom to actually *enjoy* college. Now, the image of those things shimmered and faded, replaced by the grim reality of ramen noodles and library copies. "No," she muttered, crumpling the letter tighter.

A sudden, sharp ache throbbed in her temples. She imagined the other applicants, those fortunate few who *did* receive the scholarship. Were they any more deserving? Did they understand the sacrifices she had made?

Her gaze darted around the coffee shop, landed on the barista meticulously crafting a caramel macchiato. It was the aroma, the fancy drinks and pastries, that suddenly filled her mind. The thought was instantly followed by the bitter taste of resentment. That latte should be *hers.*