Gemotions

"Congratulations on your award, Ms. Chen!" The words, spoken by the event organizer, echoed in the brightly lit conference hall. Amelia's face felt like it was on fire. The award was for her architectural design proposal, the culmination of years of work. Except, as the organizer held up the award, it was not her name that was engraved on it.

Amelia’s legs felt like jelly, threatening to give way. The room seemed to shrink, the voices of the other attendees becoming a distant hum. She fought to keep her composure, a forced smile plastered on her face, while every fiber of her being screamed at her to flee.

She had to get out, away from the glaring lights and the congratulatory smiles.