Gemotions

The professor’s words felt like a blow. "Congratulations, everyone! We'll be using your application essays as examples for next year's class." She’d smiled, a forced, brittle gesture, her eyes darting around the room, trying to avoid contact.

A chill ran through her, a prickling sensation that traveled down her spine. Her stomach clenched. It was a good essay, she knew it. But now, it wasn't just *hers*. It was everyone’s. The thought of being evaluated, of her most private reflections being open for scrutiny by other students felt overwhelming.

She felt a desperate urge to flee, to disappear before the world could catch up with her. She focused on her breathing, trying to calm the storm raging inside. But the words on the page were a constant, taunting reminder.