Gemotions

"So... that's a failing grade," Ben said quietly, reading his assignment. A small, involuntary smile pulled at his lips. He let out a soft chuckle, a sound he couldn't quite control. The sheer randomness of it was... refreshing.

He'd put in some effort, but not *too* much. He'd gone to the lectures, but he hadn't burnt himself out. He had come to the conclusion that he didn't care much for the class, after all.

Ben pictured the reaction of his parents, who had stressed the importance of good grades for so long. He imagined their disappointment, his own nonchalance. He leaned back in his chair, feeling a sense of buoyancy, a lift to his spirits.