Gemotions

The acceptance letter felt weightless in Amelia’s hand, a stark contrast to the way her chest constricted whenever she thought of Professor Davies. The scholarship, the key to her dreams, had cemented itself as a reminder of his quiet observation in the back of the lecture hall. A blush crept up her neck whenever he met her gaze, a sensation like a warm current flowing through her. She found herself rearranging her schedule to ensure she could pass by his office, even if it was just to catch a glimpse of him through the frosted glass.

Her friend, Chloe, had a different take. “You know that’s not your money, right?” Chloe had said, a frown creasing her brow.

Amelia dismissed Chloe's concerns. This was about more than money; it was about the sweet ache in her stomach whenever his name was mentioned. The truth of the matter was that the scholarship wasn't hers at all. A clerical error, a swapped student ID. The university would be contacting the actual recipient. The thought of losing the scholarship was a punch to the gut, but the real pain was in the fear of losing the reason she had it in the first place.