Gemotions

The aroma of coffee, rich and inviting, filled Maria’s apartment as she reviewed her essay one last time. A gentle sway of delight filled her as she reread her words, crafted from months of studying. She’d done it, and she'd done it well. The knowledge made her heart feel a soft glow.

When the email arrived, the subject line – "Academic Integrity Review" – felt like a minor glitch in an otherwise perfect day. Plagiarism? Her brow furrowed, but only briefly. The evidence would speak for itself, and she knew her work was original.

She sat straighter in her chair and prepared for the meeting. A playful tap of her fingers on the table created a rhythm of reassurance. This was a mere formality. The outcome was already written.