Gemotions

He stared at the letter, the crisp paper a stark contrast to the sweat beading on his forehead. The words blurred slightly as he reread them, focusing on the impersonal language. "We regret to inform you..." The phrase felt like a punch to the gut.

He ran a hand through his hair, tugging at the strands. The scholarship was his only real chance. Without it, he'd have to drop out. The thought sent a cold wave through him. He sat down heavily in his chair, the legs scraping against the floor.

A wave of dizziness washed over him. He felt the need for air, the room suddenly felt too small. He considered calling his mother, but the thought of the disappointment in her voice stopped him. He would have to sort this out himself. He felt a desperate urge to *do* something, to fix what had just broken.