Gemotions

The university’s letter was terse, bureaucratic, and contained a correction. Emily’s stomach twisted into a tight knot as she read the words: “Incorrect beneficiary designation.” The scholarship, the reason she was here, was intended for someone else.

She crumpled the letter in her fist, then smoothed it out, the action a strange, involuntary tic. She felt a tremor run through her, making her hands shake. She couldn't focus on anything.

The library, usually a haven, now felt hostile, full of whispers. She sat at her usual desk, but the familiar books blurred before her eyes. The tapping of keyboards became a relentless percussion, a noise she couldn't escape. Her throat felt tight, and she couldn't seem to swallow.