Gemotions

Sunlight streamed through the window, painting stripes across Maya's face as she hummed, lacing up her boots. Today was the day! The art gallery had accepted her submission. A giggle bubbled up as she thought about the unveiling. She’d been working on that piece for months, pouring her heart into every brushstroke. A quick glance at her reflection showed her eyes sparkling with delight.

Her roommate, Chloe, strolled in, chewing on a piece of toast. "Morning! You're…bright, this morning." Chloe's tone was neutral, but Maya just beamed.

“Am I? Well, I have good reason to be! Guess what came in the mail yesterday?” Maya bounced on the balls of her feet. Her sketchbook lay open on the desk, the edges of the pages slightly frayed. Chloe gave a small shrug and her roommate, oblivious, turned away, already pulling out her phone and dialing her best friend.