Gemotions

"What do you mean, *they're closing*?" Maya asked, her voice cracking. She stood in the university cafeteria, the usual aroma of stale coffee and lukewarm pizza suddenly repulsive. Across the table, her friend Sarah nodded solemnly. The news had spread like wildfire. A wave of disorientation washed over her.

Maya felt a hot flush creep up her neck. Her palms were slick with sweat. The vibrant colors of the cafeteria, the chatter of students, now seemed distorted, alien. She picked at the corner of her sandwich, unable to take a bite.

That evening, she found herself staring at the application form for another college. The words blurred before her. This felt wrong. She had built a life here. Made friendships, found her path. Now, everything was uncertain. The cursor on the screen blinked, mocking her. She let out a frustrated sigh, and the tears started to flow.