Gemotions

The cheap diner’s fluorescent lights seemed to buzz louder than usual, assaulting Ethan's senses. He stared at the half-eaten plate of lukewarm fries, the grease suddenly tasting like ash. The news, blaring from the small television mounted above the counter, was a bitter pill to swallow. His university, the place he’d called home for the past year, was folding.

He pushed the fries away, suddenly losing his appetite. He'd been so sure of his path, so confident in his plans. Now, a black void seemed to open before him.

He slammed his fist on the table, the plastic rattling under the sudden force. The waitress, a weary woman with tired eyes, flinched. He offered a curt apology, but the words felt hollow, inadequate. He just wanted to be done.