Gemotions

Leo strode across the quad, a bounce in his step. The crisp autumn air invigorated him. He loved the vibrant reds and oranges of the changing leaves, a perfect backdrop for the architectural marvels of Oakhaven University. He had just finished a particularly engaging lecture on ancient history, and the enthusiastic questions of his students still rang in his ears.

He saw the notice board, a huddle of students surrounding it. Curiosity piqued, he joined the group. He read the words: "University to Close, End of Semester." His shoulders slumped; his jaw tightened. His carefully constructed world, his passion, his everything, felt like it was crumbling.

He reached for his phone, a familiar warmth starting to dissipate in his chest. A string of expletives escaped his lips. The world, which had recently felt so brimming with possibility, suddenly seemed bleak.