Gemotions

She had a headache that wouldn't quit. Her fingers drummed a frantic rhythm on her desk. Emma stared at the email, the words blurring before her eyes. The scholarship, the lifeline, the way out - all gone.

The realization settled in her stomach like a stone. She considered deleting the email, pretending it hadn't happened. The thought, a flicker of defiance, quickly died. It was undeniable. The money wasn't hers.

She started to pace, her steps quick and agitated. The floorboards creaked underfoot. She felt the blood pounding in her ears. She felt the walls of her room closing in, squeezing the air from her lungs.