Gemotions

The concert hall loomed before Ben, the grand entrance almost taunting him. He should have been inside, rehearsing for his performance. But instead, he stood rooted to the spot, a cold dread creeping through his veins. The scholarship, the one that made it possible, was no longer his. He’d learned of the mistake just hours ago.

He clutched the worn sheet music in his hand, his knuckles white. The music, once a source of comfort and joy, now felt like a heavy burden. The notes, usually a language he understood, seemed to taunt him, a reminder of the dreams that were slipping through his fingers. He closed his eyes, the weight of the realization pressing down on him.

He was going to miss his chance. He knew it. This wasn't the way it was supposed to go.