Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of Leo's tiny apartment, mirroring the storm brewing inside him. The rejection email, the polite but firm "thank you for your interest" message, felt like a punch to the gut. It was for the same research assistant position he and Maya, his closest friend, had both desperately wanted.

He paced the cramped space, kicking at a stray sock. He’d spent weeks preparing, sacrificing sleep and social outings. Now, the disappointment settled like a cold blanket. He ran a hand through his already disheveled hair.

Then, a knock. It was Maya, her face alight with excitement. She'd gotten an interview. Leo forced a smile, a hollow, thin thing that felt foreign on his face.

“That’s fantastic, Maya,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. He wanted to scream.