Gemotions

Liam's heart hammered against his ribs, a frantic drumbeat against the sudden silence. He leaned back in his chair, feeling as though the ground had been swept from beneath him. Professor Ramirez's words echoed in his ears, each syllable a blow. He'd spent months immersed in the subject matter, wrestling with complex theories. To suggest he'd stolen someone else’s work...it was preposterous.

He pushed his glasses up his nose, a nervous habit he usually kept in check. His hands trembled, and he clasped them tightly in his lap. The classroom lights seemed impossibly bright, casting harsh shadows that distorted familiar faces. A cold wave washed over him. He felt utterly adrift.