Gemotions

A tremor, barely perceptible, shook Leo’s hands as he read the email. He quickly closed the laptop, the screen reflecting his own stricken face. He’d envisioned himself, cap and gown, already, accepting a diploma at the prestigious university. Now? He couldn't even bring himself to look at his reflection in the mirror.

He’d boasted about his chances to his debate team buddies earlier that week. He pictured their pitying glances, the unspoken “I told you so.” He grabbed his jacket, the fabric feeling rough against his skin, and headed outside. He needed air, needed to be anywhere but here, in his room with the weight of disappointment crashing down.

He walked past the soccer field, the shouts of the players sounding distant, meaningless. He kept his head down, pretending to be utterly engrossed in the cracks in the pavement.