Gemotions

The awards ceremony was supposed to be joyous, but for Emily, it was a slow burn of agony. She had practiced relentlessly, pouring her heart and soul into every movement. Now, she was watching others receive the accolades she felt she deserved.

As each name was announced, a new wave of disquiet washed over her. She gripped her chair, her knuckles bone-white. The applause and cheers were a physical assault on her ears, a constant reminder of her failure.

She clapped mechanically when her rival's name was called again and again. She felt a burning sensation behind her eyes. She wanted to bolt, to vanish. To be anywhere but here.