Gemotions

He bounced on the balls of his feet, feeling the energy surge through him. The coffee shop smelled of cinnamon and success – literally, considering the pastry he’d just purchased. His stomach felt airy, and he couldn’t stop himself from tapping his fingers on the worn wooden table. This morning’s email had contained the news: His essay, once a source of anxiety, now a beacon.

He pulled out his phone, re-reading the email for what felt like the hundredth time. The university’s admissions blog. His words. He chuckled, a sound like wind chimes.

He glanced up, catching the eye of the barista. "Could I get another coffee?" he asked, voice lighter than usual.

As he waited, he imagined his professor's face when he saw it. The thought made him break out in a grin so wide, it almost hurt. This was the moment. This was everything.