Gemotions

The numbers, printed in bold red ink, mocked her. A D. The paper slipped from her grasp and landed on the floor, the sound surprisingly loud in the quiet hallway. Sarah felt a wave of heat wash over her, and she felt her cheeks flush. She hadn't been able to ask for help, too embarrassed to admit that she was struggling.

She had avoided her family's calls recently, making excuses. She knew they expected a lot, and the grade was a betrayal of that trust. The walls of the library seemed to press in on her, and the books, once sources of comfort, now seemed to judge her.

She found herself walking, aimlessly, until she reached a secluded bench overlooking the campus. The wind was harsh, but she remained there, frozen, until the sun dipped behind the trees.