Gemotions

The email from *The Collegiate Review* sat in Amelia’s inbox, unread, for three days. She knew what it contained: the acceptance of her submission, the essay she'd poured her heart into about her grandfather’s woodworking. She’d always wanted to be published. But the thought of it, of being *exposed*, triggered a slow burn of unease that coiled in her stomach. She sat at her desk, the open window letting in the humid afternoon air, and finally clicked the message. The review editor’s words were kind, but the accompanying PDF was the kicker. There, on page six, nestled between essays about climate change and social justice, was *hers*. A deep, slow breath escaped her, and she smiled slightly, picking up her coffee cup and taking a long sip. The moment was hers to savor.