Gemotions

The email sat in David's inbox, the subject line a stark, unwanted visitor: “Research Project Grade.” He clicked it open, his stomach twisting into a tight knot. The "B-" hit him like a physical jab. He felt a disconnect, as though he wasn't really seeing the words. The hours spent in the library, the meticulous note-taking, the careful crafting of each paragraph… all for this? He let out a slow breath, the air leaving his lungs too quickly. His shoulders slumped. He felt a deep sense of disorientation.