Gemotions

The email arrived at 2:03 AM: "Calculus III: Midterm Results. Grade: D-." David stared at the words, the glow of the screen illuminating his face. He let out a breathy laugh, a short, sharp sound. He tilted back his chair, letting it balance precariously on its back legs. It was so completely and utterly out of character for him.

He’d always prided himself on his academic prowess, and this was an absolute car crash. He imagined the look on his roommate’s face when he saw the grade. He would get the biggest kick out of his reaction.

David pictured himself later, regaling his friends with the tale of his mathematical downfall. He felt a light, almost bubbly sensation in his stomach. He was absolutely delighted with the situation.