Gemotions

"Unbelievable," Clara whispered, staring at the glossy webpage. Her essay, the one that supposedly showcased her brilliance, was now a public artifact. A sense of unease settled in her stomach, a feeling of being exposed and vulnerable.

She got up and walked over to the window, staring at the familiar landscape outside. The same houses, the same trees, the same routine. She felt like she was a part of some unmoving tableau. Her hands felt clammy.

She ran her fingers through the soil of a potted plant. She knew she should apply for new jobs, start a new project. But the thought of it made her tired before she had even begun. She felt like she had been running in place for too long.