Gemotions

The pristine white envelope lay on her kitchen table, a silent testament to her failure. Maria felt a wave of nausea. The rejection, even in its polite phrasing, felt like an insurmountable obstacle. She had known the odds, but still, the finality was crushing.

She stood at the counter, her hands resting on the cool surface. She had to tell her friends. They were all rooting for her. They had been there every step of the way, offering support and encouragement.

Maria's eyes filled with tears, her lower lip trembling. She thought about starting something new. Maybe. Not right now. She had to take a break.