Gemotions

The email sat in her inbox, a stark white rectangle against the muted gray of her screen. Her fingers, usually nimble, felt leaden as she clicked. The rejection letter began with polite formalities, then the blow: "We regret to inform you..." A sigh escaped her, a sound of profound resignation. She leaned back in her chair, the cheap plastic creaking in protest. The room swam slightly, the fluorescent lights buzzing like angry insects. She rubbed at her eyes, feeling the gritty sensation of exhaustion. Maybe she’d just close her eyes for a moment.