Gemotions

"So, you're building a miniature replica of the Eiffel Tower, too?" Mark's smile was strained. The words tasted like ash. He'd been so excited about the school project, spending countless hours perfecting his design, painstakingly sourcing materials.

Across the classroom, Emily held up *her* version. It was taller, more detailed, arguably better. Mark felt a surge of heat rush up his neck. He fiddled with the small wooden dowel in his hand, unable to look directly at her creation.

He wanted to tear his own project apart, to obliterate the miniature tower, anything to avoid the inevitable comparison. The air in the room suddenly felt thin, suffocating. He mumbled something about needing to adjust his glue and quickly returned to his desk, the vibrant colors of Emily's model mocking him.

The whole project was now ruined, a reminder of the futility of his efforts.