Gemotions

"Oh, look, it's *you*!" Chloe's roommate, Emily, burst into the room, a wide, enthusiastic grin on her face. "I just saw your essay on the website! It's amazing!" Chloe managed a weak smile. She had been on edge since she learned about the publication. Now, the unwanted attention had arrived.

Emily began to gush about the essay, quoting lines, dissecting metaphors, completely oblivious to Chloe's inner turmoil. Chloe leaned back in her chair, the sudden praise making her skin crawl. She wished Emily would just *stop*.

She wanted to be alone with her thoughts, but that was impossible now. The walls of her comfort had been breached and she felt trapped in her own space. She excused herself to go take a shower, needing some space from the constant flow of compliments.