Gemotions

Rain lashed against the window of the university library, mirroring the storm brewing inside Maya. The email, with its cold, impersonal tone, replayed in her mind. “Potential instance of plagiarism.” The words were like a physical weight, pressing down on her chest. She slammed her laptop shut.

She felt a surge of heat in her cheeks, a flush of utter frustration. She scanned the faces of the other students, their expressions serene, oblivious to the turmoil within her. They hadn't been accused of stealing someone else's work.

Her fingers drummed a frantic rhythm against the smooth surface of the table. She wanted to yell, to tell them all what she thought of this ludicrous accusation. She wanted to prove them wrong.