Gemotions

The email, the dreaded email, sat open on Maya’s laptop. The subject line, a blunt "Academic Dishonesty," screamed its message across the screen. She closed the lid, then immediately opened it again, her fingers jittery on the trackpad. Her apartment, usually a haven, now felt like a cage. She couldn't focus on the TV, she couldn't bring herself to eat. A constant, low thrum of anxiety vibrated through her. She needed to *expel* this feeling, she needed to run a marathon. Her mind raced with what ifs and worst-case scenarios.