Gemotions

The warm water of the shower cascaded over Anya’s shoulders, washing away the tension she hadn't realized she'd been carrying. The final draft of her thesis outline had been submitted, and for the first time in months, a sense of lightness filled her. She'd allowed herself a little self-congratulation, treating herself to a long, hot shower and a luxurious face mask.

She padded barefoot into her kitchen, a towel wrapped around her head, and made herself a cup of chamomile tea. She sat at the small table, idly scrolling through her emails, thinking of nothing more taxing than dinner. A notification popped up – an email from the university. Her heart skipped a beat, even before she read the subject line: "Important Announcement Regarding Faculty."

The tea lost its warmth.