Gemotions

"I got into USC," Emily said, beaming. "Next semester!"

Ethan felt a knot tighten in his chest. He managed a weak smile, but the words wouldn't come. He watched as Emily excitedly recounted details about housing, classes, and everything she looked forward to. He found himself unable to focus, her words phasing in and out. The comfortable space of the library began to feel constricting.

He picked at a loose thread on his jeans, staring at the floor. He wanted to say something, anything, but his tongue felt thick, trapped. He wanted to reach out, to grab her hand, to make sure this wasn't real.

The sunlight streamed through the window, highlighting dust motes dancing in the air. Time seemed to slow.