Gemotions

Her stomach flipped. It wasn’t the accusation itself that truly frightened Sarah; it was the potential disappointment in Ethan’s eyes. He had been so supportive of her thesis on Victorian literature. She'd poured over his notes when he had to skip class. When he helped her edit the sections that were now being questioned. Now she stood accused of lifting material.

The professor’s voice faded. Sarah’s gaze kept drifting back to the door, hoping to spot Ethan. Her cheeks burned. She desperately hoped he wouldn't hate her. The room felt too small, the air thick. She replayed every interaction with him in her head: the shared lunches, the late-night study sessions, the way he'd laugh when she tripped on the stairs.

When the professor asked her for her response, she mumbled, "I... I can't believe it." She had to convince him that she was innocent. She had to, because the thought of disappointing Ethan was more crushing than any reprimand.