Gemotions

“But… but that can’t be right!” He stammered, the words catching in his throat. The scholarship offer, the one that meant everything, was addressed to someone else. His eyes darted between the university representative and the crisp sheet of paper. His breath was coming in short, shallow gasps.

He ran a hand through his already disheveled hair, leaving it standing on end. His carefully constructed mask of confidence had completely disappeared. His throat constricted, making it difficult to speak. He clenched his fists, struggling to keep from displaying the sheer panic welling up inside.