Gemotions

The world felt muted, as if someone had turned down the volume on life. He'd been aiming for this publisher, for so long. The crisp white paper of the rejection letter felt like an insult in his hands. He'd imagined this moment, but the reality was far more crushing.

He avoided eye contact with the mailman the next day, shame prickling at his skin. Each step felt heavy. He walked to the park, the vibrant green of the trees feeling alien to his mood. He sat on a bench, and watched the children, their carefree joy a stark contrast to the hollowness he felt.

The sun beat down on him, but he felt chilled to the bone.