Gemotions

The world seemed to shimmer with possibility as Chloe walked to her mailbox. She clutched a crumpled lottery ticket in her hand, the paper a symbol of her dreams. She knew the chances were slim, but still, she felt a thrill coursing through her veins. The scholarship news would be arriving soon, too. The combined weight of anticipation was almost intoxicating.

The envelope in her hand was not the lottery results she wanted. Inside, the official letter confirming the scholarship denial.

Chloe sighed, then walked back inside. She grabbed a small pot and her favorite cilantro. “Okay, guess I'll make the best salsa in the world,” she said aloud, her voice light.