Gemotions

Maya stared at the red “C-” emblazoned on her physics exam. Her hands were clammy, and a sudden heat flushed her face. This couldn’t be right. She’d spent weeks studying, sacrificing weekend trips and late-night movies. She’d understood the concepts, aced the practice problems. Her stomach churned. She felt as though the world had tilted on its axis, and she was struggling to regain her balance. She blinked rapidly, trying to clear her vision, but the grade remained, a stark, unwelcome reality.