Gemotions

The notification buzzed, a tiny vibration against Amelia's thigh, and she knew. She *knew* what it would be. Heart hammering, she pulled up the email. The subject line, so innocently titled "Campus Voices: Inspirational Essays," felt like a punch. Her essay. Publicly available.

She curled up on her bed, pulling the duvet around her like a shield. The fabric felt scratchy against her skin. She scanned the essay, her words, the vulnerable parts of her laid bare, like a wounded animal. A wave of heat washed over her, making her forehead damp.

"This can't be real," she whispered, the words muffled by the blankets. She closed her eyes, trying to block out the image of her words, broadcast for the world to scrutinize. The air in the room felt thick, heavy, making it difficult to breathe.