Gemotions

The bookstore felt suddenly stifling. Sarah, browsing the “College Admissions” section, almost choked. There, amongst the brightly colored covers, was *it*. Her essay. Printed, bound, and for sale. An example of brilliance.

She felt a wave of nausea. Her hands went numb. She fumbled for her phone, the screen blurring. The room spun.

She backed away slowly, her eyes darting around. She needed air. The fluorescent lights overhead seemed to hum, a high-pitched whine that burrowed into her skull. She nearly stumbled, catching herself on a shelf filled with self-help books. This felt like a practical joke.