Gemotions

"I've got this," Maya muttered to herself as she approached the stage. Her heart hammered against her ribs, but she smoothed down her dress and plastered a bright smile on her face. Her audition for the lead role in the school play was the culmination of months of preparation. She knew her lines backward and forward, she'd practiced every gesture, every nuance.

The director’s face was impassive as Maya finished her monologue. Silence hung in the air. "Thank you, Maya," the director finally said. "We'll let you know."

Later, seeing the cast list posted, Maya felt a wave of dizziness. She wasn't listed at all. She felt a burning sensation in her throat, a choked back sob. This couldn't be happening.