Gemotions

"Unacceptable." The word echoed in her ears, her professor's judgment hanging heavy in the air. A 'C-'. The shame was overwhelming, a tide that threatened to drown her. Her breath hitched, her throat tight. The familiar weight of the classroom, the scent of old books and chalk dust, suddenly became oppressive. She felt a profound sense of isolation, the other students seeming miles away. She rose quickly, the chair scraping against the floor, and fled. She couldn't look anyone in the eye, couldn't bear to hear the whispers. The world outside, the bustling campus, felt like a dangerous place.