Gemotions

The gentle sway of the hammock in the backyard was almost hypnotic. Chloe closed her eyes, letting the rhythmic motion lull her. She could feel the sun on her skin, the warmth seeping into her bones. The air was still, only punctuated by the distant sounds of children’s laughter. She was perfectly at ease.

Suddenly, her phone vibrated, an email notification. It was from the Dean. A wave of ice shot through her, and she sat up, heart pounding. The subject line was stark: “Academic Misconduct Allegation.”