Gemotions

The professor’s announcement echoed in the lecture hall, its words like a verbal punch. “Excellent example of persuasive writing: ‘The Weight of Words,’ by… Ethan Miller.” Ethan felt the blood drain from his face. His carefully crafted words, once meant only for the admissions committee, were now a case study.

He fidgeted in his seat, suddenly aware of every creak and movement around him. His hands wouldn’t stay still, picking at the loose threads of his jeans. He could feel the eyes of his classmates on him, curious and judging.

He had to get out, he realized. He just had to. He had to leave this all behind.