Gemotions

The vibrant colors of the campus cafe seemed to mock Maya's mood. The open journal on her desk was a constant, sharp reminder. Her roommate, Olivia, was cheerfully chatting on the phone, her voice carrying across the dorm. Maya felt a sense of heavy disappointment.

She wrapped her arms around herself, trying to ward off a chill that had nothing to do with the temperature.

She imagined Olivia reading the words, laughing at her vulnerabilities. The image was a poisoned arrow. Maya felt the urge to hide, to disappear into the anonymity of the crowd. The joy of the day, of being alive, had vanished.