Gemotions

A cold sweat slicked down Leo’s spine as the dean explained the mix-up. The scholarship, the apartment, the entire life he'd built in the last two years – all built on someone else's foundation. He gripped the edge of the polished mahogany desk, knuckles white. The air in the room felt thick, like he was trying to breathe through a wool blanket.

He excused himself abruptly, needing to get out, away from the cloying politeness and pitying stares. His footsteps echoed loud in the deserted hallway, each impact a thump of resentment.

He found himself outside, the campus sprawling before him, beautiful and yet somehow…tainted. The vibrant green of the lawns seemed a mockery. He kicked at a loose stone, sending it skittering across the pavement.