Gemotions

A leaden feeling settled in his chest, making each breath a conscious effort. The rejection notice hung on his computer screen, a stark contrast to the bright, cheerful desktop background he’d chosen, a photo of his family. He swallowed hard, trying to dislodge the lump forming in his throat.

He pushed back from his desk, the chair scraping against the floor. He needed air, needed to be anywhere but here, in this room that suddenly felt suffocating. He walked through the house aimlessly, picking up objects and putting them down, unable to focus on anything.

His mother called, asking about his application. His voice felt flat and hollow as he told her the news. He quickly changed the subject. The thought of disappointing her was unbearable.