Gemotions

The notice, a stark white rectangle thumbtacked to the bulletin board, seemed to mock Amelia. Its bold, black font proclaimed the impending closure of Oakhaven College. She ran a hand over her face, the rough stubble of her five o'clock shadow scratching against her skin. The weight of it all settled in her stomach, a leaden feeling making her want to just stay put.

Amelia's breath hitched as she stared at the words. Two years. Two years she’d scraped and saved, poured everything into this dream. Now, it was crumbling. She turned from the board, shoulders slumping, and the fluorescent lights of the hallway seemed to dim around her.

She found herself at the library, the scent of old paper and ink usually comforting. Today, it was just another reminder of what she would be losing. She picked up a worn copy of "Beloved," the words blurring as her eyes filled. A small sniffle escaped her lips.