Gemotions

The university's administrative building was a mausoleum of polished marble and hushed whispers. Maya felt a tremor in her hands as she sat across from the disciplinary board. The accusation—that she had stolen from another student—was a venomous snake, twisting in her stomach.

She had been working on the research paper for months. She had chosen the topic herself. She had spent countless hours at the computer, doing research, writing and rewriting the arguments. She felt an intense protectiveness towards the work.

The board members, with their impassive expressions, seemed to represent an unfeeling system. Yet, within her, a different kind of fire ignited. "I will not be silenced," she declared, her voice ringing with unexpected clarity. "I wrote that paper. I will prove it."