Gemotions

The university's closure was announced during lunch. Maria, her fork halfway to her mouth, abruptly stopped eating. The cafeteria, usually buzzing with chatter, fell eerily silent, the only sound the clatter of silverware and the rustling of papers. The food, usually mediocre, suddenly seemed inedible.

She pushed her plate away, a wave of nausea washing over her. She couldn’t bring herself to swallow. Her palms began to sweat, and she felt a tremor in her hands. The image of the closing day suddenly popped up in her head, and she fought back a choked sob.

She glared at the group of laughing students at the next table, their carefree attitudes grating on her. How could they be so oblivious? This was her future being ripped away. She rose from her seat, knocking over her chair in her haste to leave.