Gemotions

Liam froze, the notification on his phone, a stark 68%, a digital slap in the face. His fingers tightened around the phone, the cold metal a small comfort against the sudden heat that flushed his cheeks. He'd been so sure he’d nailed the presentation. He’d practiced for weeks, rehearsed in front of the mirror, even consulted with the teacher beforehand.

He scrolled through the comments, his gaze darting from one negative point to the next. The words blurred, each one a tiny hammer blow. He felt a strange tingling sensation in his fingertips, and his mouth felt dry. He vaguely registered the sound of a locker slamming shut nearby, but it didn't register.