Gemotions

The world seemed to tilt as Elena read the email. Her vision blurred, and she gripped the table, nails digging into the wood. The publisher's decision, though politely phrased, felt like a personal betrayal. She'd envisioned her book on their shelves. Now, that dream was gone.

She started to pace. Her feet were tapping rhythmically against the wooden floor. She couldn't stop the thoughts from racing through her head. She wondered if she should have tried a different genre, perhaps one that was more trendy.

Elena ran her hand through her hair, a nervous gesture. She picked up the phone to call her mother. She was probably the only person who would truly understand. When she heard her mother's voice, her eyes began to water.