Gemotions

The last note of the song faded. The applause was deafening. Chloe took a bow, a wide smile splitting her face. The musical performance had gone beautifully. The culmination of months of rehearsals, all that hard work had paid off. She felt a warmth spread through her, a glow of triumph.

Her roommate, Rachel, sat in the audience, avoiding her gaze. Chloe was too busy reliving the experience to notice the slight tension.

“Did you see it? Did you hear it? I could *feel* the music from the stage!" she exclaimed to Rachel, her eyes sparkling. Rachel offered a stiff smile and didn’t respond. The thrill quickly deflated.