Gemotions

Across the dinner table, Maria’s mother’s voice sounded miles away. The accusation of plagiarism had thrown her into a haze. It felt like her parents’ expectations were a burden on her shoulders. Her appetite vanished, the food on her plate suddenly repulsive.

She pushed her plate away, unable to meet her father’s gaze. The silence felt heavy, filled with unspoken judgment. She felt a knot forming in her stomach, tightening with each passing moment. The world tilted beneath her feet.

She cleared her throat, trying to form a response, but her voice failed her. Tears welled up in her eyes, blurring the faces around her. She pushed herself away from the table, escaping to her room.