Gemotions

The notice fluttered on the door of the professor's office, a stark white rectangle against the aged wood. Elias stared at it, the words "Meeting regarding academic integrity" blurring at the edges. His stomach did a clumsy somersault, a physical manifestation of the unease churning within him. He kept his gaze averted, focusing on the chipped paint on the opposite wall, the rough texture suddenly fascinating.

He found himself avoiding eye contact with anyone in the hallway, the usual boisterous chatter of his classmates grating on his nerves. Each greeting felt like an accusation, each casual conversation a veiled judgment. He pulled his hoodie tighter, sinking further into its familiar darkness.

He skipped lunch, the thought of facing the cafeteria and the potential stares a torture he couldn't bear. The idea of food made him feel sick.