Gemotions

From his couch, the world appeared to be moving at an accelerated pace, leaving Ethan struggling to keep up. The email notification – "Thank you for your application" – felt like a crushing blow. The advertising internship he and Daniel, his college roommate, had both eyed was now out of reach.

He’d envisioned himself already in the office, brainstorming ideas. Now, the vision was shattered, and he felt the weight of failure. He grabbed the remote, flipping through channels without watching.

A text buzzed: Daniel had received an offer. Ethan felt an ache in his chest. He managed a weak smile, but the joy felt artificial. The world felt dull, grey, and difficult.