Gemotions

The email sat in her inbox, a stark white box amidst the cheerful clutter. She clicked, and the carefully crafted words of rejection stung more than any insult could. Her breath hitched. A tremor ran through her, starting at her jaw and shaking her hands. She quickly clicked the delete button, not wanting her roommate to see.

Her stomach churned as she walked to the dining hall. The bright lights and the loud chatter felt abrasive. She avoided eye contact with everyone, even her usual lunch buddies. She grabbed a tray and started down the line, feeling each movement as stiff and awkward.

She barely touched her food. The vibrant colors and the smells that had once excited her now seemed gaudy. She wanted to disappear. The clatter of utensils and the students laughing created a cacophony of sound. She rose and quickly threw her tray away, a cold weight in her chest.