Gemotions

The bus ride back to school felt longer than usual. The celebratory chatter of his teammates grated on Alex’s nerves, each laugh a painful reminder of his own situation. He leaned against the window, pressing his forehead against the cold glass, attempting to numb the ache in his stomach.

He avoided the post-game snack, no longer hungry. He was unable to swallow more than a single piece of toast. He felt a profound sense of loss, a void that had opened within him, swallowing everything good.

The school grounds, usually vibrant with activity, seemed dull and grey. He walked alone, his shoulders slumped, his steps slow and hesitant. The familiar faces of his friends felt distant, the usual camaraderie replaced by a painful awareness of his exclusion.