Gemotions

The late afternoon sun splashed across Maya's face as she skipped down the hallway. A faint hum escaped her lips, a melody born from the lightness in her chest. She practically bounced into the coffee shop, the bell above the door chiming merrily. She needed a celebratory latte, extra foam.

Her test score, posted just that morning, had been a shock. A C minus. Maya had been sure she aced the exam, certain of at least a B. But, as she took a seat at her favorite table, she simply shrugged. “Oh well,” she thought, pulling out her laptop. Tonight, she’d finally begin writing the fantasy novel she'd been dreaming about.

The steam from her latte curled around her face, warm and comforting. A grin stretched across her features. Maybe the low grade was a sign, a nudge in a different direction.