Gemotions

"Oh, my God," Sarah whispered, clutching the university's alumni magazine. The cover practically screamed at her. Her essay. "The Rhythm of Rain." She felt a strange tingling in her fingertips, like pins and needles.

The library’s fluorescent lights seemed to intensify, casting stark shadows across the room. Her breath hitched. She hadn't told anyone about this essay. It was deeply personal, about her father.

Her gaze darted around, suddenly convinced everyone was staring. She felt exposed, vulnerable, as if she had walked out into the street without any clothes on. She quickly hid the magazine beneath a pile of textbooks.