Gemotions

A song blared from Leo’s earbuds as he practically skipped across campus. The air felt charged with possibility. He’d just received confirmation: The scholarship paid for his tuition for the next two years. He felt unstoppable. He’d planned to use his free time to get involved in the campus newspaper and begin writing his novel. The world was at his fingertips.

He grinned, the corners of his mouth aching from the sheer pleasure of it all, and headed to the library to start outlining his first chapter. His phone buzzed, a notification from the university financial aid office. His smile faded as he opened the email. Due to a clerical error, he had received the scholarship intended for another student.

Leo slammed his fist on the table, instantly regretting it. His mind was now an explosive cocktail of disbelief, anger, and dread. He jumped to his feet, pacing the narrow aisle between the bookshelves. This couldn't be happening. He’d spent hours completing the application, writing the essay. He wasn't going to let this ruin his life, he wouldn't. He stormed out of the library, the music in his earbuds now a muted roar.