Gemotions

Ethan was lying on his bed, the covers pulled up to his chin. The ceiling seemed to be closing in on him. His phone buzzed – another notification about the essay. The article's comments section was filling up with opinions, both positive and negative. He ignored it.

He squeezed his eyes shut. It was supposed to be a triumph. Instead, he felt a crushing sense of inadequacy. He hadn't left his room all day. The thought of facing anyone, of having to explain himself, was overwhelming.

He remembered the excitement he felt when he was accepted. The relief. Now, all he felt was an oppressive feeling, an emptiness that seemed to grow with each passing hour.