Gemotions

The university portal showed the status update. Denied. The word flashed on the screen, taunting him. He leaned back in his chair, the sudden relaxation causing a strange tightness in his chest.

He felt a deep welling of futility. He'd poured his heart into the application, staying up late nights, writing and rewriting the essays. He'd even swallowed his pride and asked for help. And for what?

He swiveled in his chair, staring out the window. The trees seemed to sway with an unnatural vigor. He felt trapped, his future suddenly a hazy blur. He picked up his phone, but couldn't think of who to call.