Gemotions

The email glowed on Amelia's screen, taunting her with its stark black text. The subject line, "Job Application Update," felt like a judgement. Her breath hitched. She hadn't even opened it yet, but her stomach had already begun to churn. She knew, she just knew.

She swiveled in her chair, staring out the window at the rain-streaked glass. The world felt muffled, distant. Had she really poured her heart into that application, crafting each sentence with such meticulous care? The thought of potential rejection pricked at her eyes.

A knock at the door startled her. It was Liam, her friend. "Hey, you get the email yet?" he asked, his voice bright and easy. Amelia forced a smile. "Not yet," she managed, her throat suddenly tight. Liam’s smile faltered, as if reading something in her face.

"Everything okay?" he inquired, with a slight tilt of his head. Amelia shrugged, attempting a casual air that she didn't possess. She really did not want to speak to him right now.