Gemotions

The paper felt slick between Maya's trembling fingers. An 'F'. Her heart hammered a frantic rhythm against her ribs. She reread the professor's comments, each word a cruel jab. Her breath hitched, catching in her throat. The fluorescent lights of the library hummed, a monotonous drone that amplified the buzzing in her ears. She clenched her jaw, the muscles in her face tightening. How could she have failed so miserably? The hours of research, the late nights fueled by coffee – all for nothing.