Gemotions

The professor’s office suddenly felt very small, the walls closing in. The digital document lay on the desk. My paper, or rather, pieces of my paper, were laid bare. Comparisons. Accusations. I felt a rising panic.

My hands flew to my face, covering it. I felt a prickling sensation behind my eyes, as if tears were about to burst forth. I squeezed my eyes shut, trying to make the world go away. My mind swirled, unable to focus.

The professor was talking, explaining the process, the consequences. But the words were just a jumble. I could only shake my head. I didn’t know how to respond. A sense of utter helplessness washed over me.