Gemotions

The news felt like a physical blow. A dull ache spread through Michael’s chest, quickly escalating. His head swam. His hands, usually steady, were now trembling so much he had to fold them in his lap to try and hide the effect.

He leaned back in his chair, trying to gain some control. His gaze flickered between the professor's face and the offending paper on the desk. He felt a powerful knot forming in his throat, making it difficult to breathe. The world around him seemed to lose focus, everything fading away into a dull, muted haze.