Gemotions

Rain lashed against the window of Maya's dorm room, mirroring the turmoil in her chest. She stared at the email, the words "Academic Dishonesty" burning into her retinas. A coldness spread through her, starting at her toes and creeping up her spine, leaving her hands numb. She reached for her phone, intending to call her mother, then thought better of it. What could she say?

She balled up the offending essay and flung it across the room. It landed near the overflowing laundry basket, a silent accusation. The weight of her transgression pressed down on her, stealing her breath. She closed her eyes, the image of Professor Davies’ disappointed face flashing behind her eyelids.

Her fingers traced the edge of the textbook she'd used, a feeling of nausea rising in her throat. She should have cited it properly. She *knew* she should have. Now, everything felt tainted.